Marlin FAQ

What is different about the new frame compared to previous versions?

• • Modern, trail-ready geometry with a slacker 66.5-degree headtube, longer reach, steeper seat tube angle, shorter stock stems and wider stock bars.
• • Eight unique frame sizes to fit an even wider range of riders. 26” XXS, 27.5” XS-SM, 29” MD-XXL
• • Standard 135 mm dropout spacing, but with an all-new ThruSkew rear axle mated to a closed dropout that is safer, simpler and stronger. Includes a removable lever.
• • A subtly dropped drive-side chainstay increases rear tyre clearance to 2.4” on all sizes when set up 1x.
• • Improved cable routing compatible with internally routed dropper posts and foam tubes to silence cables.
• • Full-coverage chain stay guard to quiet chain slap.

Do any frame sizes have curved top tubes for lower standover?

Yes – XXS and XS have curved top tubes with stand-over heights of 650 mm and 658 mm respectively.

What else changes between sizes?

Frame size	XXS		XS	SM	M & up
Stock wheel size	26		27.5	27.5	29
Max wheel size	27.5*		27.5	27.5	29
Stock fork travel	100 mm 6-level	80 mm 7/8-level	100 mm	100 mm	100 mm
Max fork travel	100 mm		120 mm	120 mm	120 mm
Max axle to race	478 mm		510 mm		540 mm
Top tube	Curved		Curved	Straight	Straight
Bottle cage mounts	1		1	1	2

*Note that while the frame is compatible with 27.5” wheels, you’ll also need a 27.5”-compatible fork. The stock MY23 XXS Marlin 7 and 8 forks are compatible with both 26” and 27.5” wheels; the stock fork on the MY23 XXS Marlin 6, however, is only 26”-compatible.

Can you upgrade to a fork with a tapered steerer?

Yes, but you’ll need a new head set. To run a tapered steerer we offer FSA Orbit headset PN 5304967 which has an external lower bearing cup.

FSA Orbit headset

How much dropper-post insertion does each size have?

XXS	200 mm
XS	200 mm
S	200 mm
M	216 mm
ML	240 mm
L	240 mm
XL	240 mm
XXL	245 mm

Does ThruSkew require a unique wheel or hub?

No. ThruSkew uses a standard 135 mm hub so you get the benefits of a thru-axle in the simplicity and value of an easily replaceable or upgradable 135 mm wheel.

What type of bottom bracket?

BSA 73 mm (threaded)

Is it compatible with 30 mm spindles?

Yes, but check compatibility between your 30 mm BB of choice and 30 mm crank of choice.

What is the max rear rotor size?

Frames XS-XXL can accommodate a 180 mm rotor with an adapter. XXS has a max of 160 mm.

What are the max chainring sizes and chain line?

1X: 32T (49 mm chain line) or 1X : 34T (52 mm chain line), 2x: 36/22 (49 mm chain line)

Where is the internal dropper routing? I can’t see a hole in the seat tube…

Internal dropper post housing starts its journey from the drive-side hole near the headtube, runs through the downtube, above the bottom bracket and finally through the seat tube to the dropper. This task is most easily accomplished with the bottom bracket removed.

Is the Gen 3 Marlin tubeless-compatible? What additional parts are required?

The Gen 3 Marlin 6, 7 and 8 come with tubeless-ready rims and tyres, but tubeless valves and rim-strips are sold separately. Marlin 4 and 5 wheels and tyres are not tubeless-compatible.

Does it have any accessory mounts for a kickstand and rack?

Yes – Marlin has mounts for an integrated cargo rack and kickstand. We recommend the Bontrager Integrated Rear Mount Adjustable Kickstand.

Bontrager Integrated Rear Mount Adjustable Kickstand

Can I put a front derailleur on it?

Yes – but the frame doesn’t have routing for both a front derailleur and an internally routed dropper post, so you’ll have to choose. Note that a front derailleur reduces rear tyre clearance to 2.2” on all sizes.

Are all sizes compatible with a water bottle?

Yes! Note that XXS, XS and S sizes do not have a seat tube bottle mount. This is to allow for deeper seat post insertion.

Does it come with Blendr/accessory attachments?

It does not, but the stems are Blendr-compatible.