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 135mm 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 tire 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 650mm and 658mm respectively.

What else changes between sizes?

Frame sizeXXSXSSMM & up
Stock wheel size2627.527.529
Max wheel size27.5*27.527.529
Stock fork travel

100mm
6-level

80mm
7/8-level

100mm100mm100mm
Max fork travel100 mm120mm120mm120mm
Max axle to race478mm510mm540mm
Top tubeCurvedCurvedStraightStraight
Bottle cage mounts1112

*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 headset. 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?

XXS200mm
XS200mm
S200mm
M216mm
ML240mm
L240mm
XL240mm
XXL245mm

Does ThruSkew require a unique wheel or hub?

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

What type of bottom bracket?

BSA 73mm (threaded)

Is it compatible with 30mm spindles?

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

What is the max rear rotor size?

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

What are the max chainring sizes and chain line?

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

Where is the internal dropper routing? I don’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 Gen 3 Marlin tubeless compatible? What additional parts are required?

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

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 tire 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.