Nothing beats family days out in the fresh air together on two wheels. Trek Marlin is one of very few bikes that mum, dad and kids of all ages can ride, thanks to the size range, which runs from XXS to XXL. This is the world’s favourite Trek bike, mostly because it has an affordable entry level and it’s comfortable on just about any terrain.
ACTIV Cycles are giving away four Marlins to one lucky winner in our massive giveaway – details of how to enter are below. Let’s look at what makes this mountain bike such a winner across the world and why you should enter our competition now.
1. Unbeatable versatility
Trek Marlin looks like a mountain bike but it’s built to go just about anywhere. Ride to school, take it to the park, explore the local canalside tracks and then enjoy some moderate trails; this is the bike that does it all. Marlin has a lightweight build with high stiffness and plenty of strength, and medium travel suspension on the front fork for increased comfort over lumpy surfaces. Every model has disc brakes for confident stopping power and the tyres are knobbly enough to provide grip off-road but not so much that they detract from your pedalling effort on the tarmac.
2. A reasonable entry price
Starting normally at £475 – currently £439 in our sale – these bikes are a genuinely affordable way to get a high quality bike that will stand the test of time – and teenagers! Trek’s build quality is off the charts and means that investing in a bike from this global powerhouse brand will pay dividends over time, as a well-looked-after machine can be handed down to little brothers and sisters. Looking at a mid-range Trek Marlin 6, this could be yours for only £24.96 a month through Klarna, with a range of other buying options including the Cycle To Work Schemes.
3. Reassuring warranty

We often hear Trek’s warranty described as the best in the world. This includes a lifetime warranty for the frame for the original owner, as well as two years on parts, paint and transfers. While this is great news for adult riders, it’s especially reassuring when it comes to bikes for the kids.
4. Colourways that everyone loves
While owning a bike that’s reliable, durable and a great ride is the top priority, looking great is important too. Trek Marlin is available in a hugely varied palette of paint finishes to suit any taste. Choose from Radioactive Red, Galactic Grey, Nautical Navy, Miami Green, Deepdark Blue, Matte Mulberry and more. There’s also a number of two-tone fades that are certain to turn heads as the kids are riding around town with their friends.
5. Get customised
Whether you’re regularly hitting the trails or you’re heading out for family picnics, Marlin can be fully customised with a treasure-trove of accessories. Mounting points at various locations on the frame allow you to attach all kinds of practical touches, according to your own preferences. These include mudguards, rear rack, kickstands and bottle cages, as well as kit that doesn’t require mounting points, like bags and lights.
Win four Trek Marlins worth up to £2,345
At ACTIV Cycles, we want to inspire you and your family to get out on two wheels, so we’re giving one lucky person the chance to win four Trek Marlins, one each for the whole family.
For your chance to win, all you need to do is enter your details here and you will be entered into our prize draw. View full details and terms here.
Which Trek Marlin to buy

The Marlin range begins with the Marlin 4, which normally retails at £475 but is currently £439 in our sale. It tops out at the Marlin 8 at £1,230, which also on sale, at £999.
Your choice of Marlin will mostly be influenced by the type of riding you want to do and your budget. As you progress through the range, the bikes become more capable and more trail-orientated, with better suspension and tyres. The gearing set-up also becomes more like a trails bike than an all-rounder in mid-level models and above. Essentially, if you want a bike for varied uses, the Marlin 4 and 5 will suit you perfectly but if you want to spend more time on rougher terrain, we recommend looking further up the range.
Our best value pick is the Marlin 7 in the stunning Marigold to Red Fade colourway (above), which currently has £175 off at £650. That’s as little as £27.09 per month through Klarna.
For a test ride and to find out more, visit our shop where the ACTIV Cycles team will be happy to help you get set up and ready to ride. Check out our online shop if you’re looking for some great deals across the Marlin range.
Please note: Prices correct at the time of writing.
