Marin Alpine Trail 1: The right device for rough terrain - now in the enduro test

In the last enduro special in BIKE 7, the brand new Marine Alpine Trail in the 5059 euro XR version has already proven itself. The 17.5-kilo sled confidently won the bike park tip and, thanks to its extremely flat geometry, provided a very smooth ride. We are now eagerly awaiting the 3499 euro Alpine Trail 1 (>> e.g. available here) . The bike is not only the cheapest aluminium enduro bike in Marin's new model range, but together with the YT it is also the cheapest enduro bike in this comparison. The Alpine Trail 1 also weighs in at a hefty 17.6 kilos without pedals. The robust and extremely stiff aluminium frame and the heavy wheels push the weight up.

One reason for the extra weight of the frame is the integrated storage compartment and the wide range of geometry adjustments. The Marin not only allows you to adjust the head angle, but also the rear triangle length and bottom bracket height. The Alpine Trail can also be ridden with a 27.5 or 29-inch rear wheel. Otherwise, none of the enduro bikes tested offer so many adjustment options - even if experience shows that most of the options will remain unused in everyday use.

Equipment Marin Alpine Trail 1

• Fork: Fox 36 Rhythm
• Shock: Fox Float Performance
• Gear system: Shimano Deore, 1x12
• Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32, 10-51 / 510 %
• Brakes: TRP Slate Evo 203/203 mm
• Telescopic support/stroke: TranzX / 170 mm
• Wheels: Shimano hubs, Marin double-wall rims
• Tyres: Vee Tire Snap WCE GXE Core 29/27.5 x 2.6

Measured values

• Total weight: 17.60 kg (without pedals)
• Weight of wheels: 6250 g
• Acceleration of running wheels: 4568 kg x cm²

Extreme Geo

In terms of geometry, the affordable Alpine Trail Extreme explores the limits. With a steering angle of 62.5 degrees and 443 millimetre chainstays, the Marin follows the motto "length runs". The longest wheelbase by far invites you to simply leave the brakes open in nasty bumpy sections. The high dead weight also ensures stability and a stable centre of gravity. In narrow passages, however, the Enduro is very bulky and reluctant to get on the rear wheel.

The Marin is a real powerhouse. It's a shame that the suspension in particular is not up to the potential speed. Here, the expensive Alpine Trail XR with steel rear suspension is in a completely different league. The Fox Float shock without a reservoir is overstretched in fast sections and can only be explained by the low price. The Alpine Trail 1 also makes a compromise when it comes to the fork: a 36 mm Fox with a single Rhythm damping cartridge is used, extended to 170 millimetres. This puts the Marin in last place for suspension.

Better with a lift

The combination of a steep seat angle and short stem creates a very short riding position uphill. When travelling slowly, the steering tilts due to the flat steering angle. A steady hand is required here. In addition, the grippy and stable Vee-Tire tyres roll quite slowly. When pedalling out of the saddle, the rear end pumps noticeably and requires you to reach for the platform.

On top of this comes the aforementioned weight of 18 kilos ready to ride, which is significantly higher than the competition. The bottom line is that the Marin is only recommended for the bike park or tours with a climbing aid, which severely restricts the range of use. Pedal-heavy rides are definitely not one of the aluminium bullet's main disciplines.

Conclusion Peter Nilges BIKE test manager

Due to its high weight and extreme geo, the Marin Alpine Trail 1 needs an active rider, otherwise you quickly turn from pilot to passenger. Tip: retrofit a more powerful shock.