trek marlin black

• Mountain Bikes
• Gravel Bikes
• Hybrid Bikes
• Electric Bikes
• Commuter Bikes
• Exercise Bikes
• Women’s Bikes
• Kids’ Bikes
• All Best Bike Brands
• Mountain Bike Brands
• Electric Bike Brands
• Bike Rack Brands
• Brand Review: Rad Power Bikes
• Brand Review: Ride1UP Bikes

Disclaimer: Bikexchange is reader-supported . We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through the links on our site.

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Review: A Capable Budget-Friendly XC MTB

Trek Marlin 4 is the second cheapest model in Trek’s mountain bike range, at just $630. 

This stylish, modern-looking hardtail is a solid introductory bike for day-to-day riding, commuting, and leisurely weekend spins on gravel and dirt trails. 

Although it looks the part, the Marlin 4 can’t handle actual mountain trails, as the low-performance fork won’t take much abuse. 

This Trek Marlin 4 review will provide a detailed look at the bike, its strengths and weaknesses, and the type of rider who should buy it. 

What Is the Weight Limit on a Trek Marlin 4?

The weight limit on a Marlin 4 MTB is 300 lbs, which includes the bicycle, rider, and cargo. The bike weighs just under 32 lbs, leaving around 268 lbs for the rider and cargo. 

• Sleek design with internal cable routing
• Shimano drivetrain
• Cheap 
• Heavy, low-performance fork

Trek Marlin 4 2023 Full Specs

Trek marlin 4 gen 2 full review.

The Trek Marlin 4 2022 is the same as the 2023 model. It has a basic 3×7-speed Shimano Altus/Tourney groupset and Tektro mechanical disc brakes, a typical pairing for the price range. The SR Suntour XCE 28 isn’t worth much on mountain trails but takes the sting out of bumpy gravel trails and roads. 

This section will cover the features and components that make the bike stand out in its price category. 

Is the Trek Marlin 4 a Trail Bike?

The Trek Marlin 4 is not a trail bike. Trail mountain bikes typically have above 120mm of travel, and the majority of models are full-suspension. Instead, the Marlin 4 is a light-duty off-roader better suited to urban riding and gravel trails.

If you want a proper trial bike, check our list of the best full-suspension mountain bikes out there.

Stylish Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame

The whole Trek Marlin series uses the same Alpha Silver aluminum frame. However, at less than half the price of the premium model, this frame is a notable strength of the Marlin 4. 

Marlin 4 has full internal cable routing, which is a popular feature that not all mountain bikes in this price range offer.

Trek’s Alpha Silver frame comes from years of materials innovations and design expertise, resulting in a balanced ride quality that balances stiffness and compliance compared to the overly stiff aluminum frames typical of this price range. 

This frame also has sleek internal cable routing that gives the bike a higher-priced finish and mounts for a rack and kickstand for commuting or even light bikepacking. 

What Is the Difference Between Trek Marlin 4 and 5?

There isn’t a big difference between the performance of the Trek Marlin 4 vs. 5. The Marlin 5 has a slightly more robust fork, improved 2×8-speed gearing and hydraulic disc brakes, and a slightly lower weight. However, the Trek Marlin 4’s price is $110 lower than the Marlin 5 . 

Progressive Sizing

The Trek Marlin 4 2023 comes in seven different sizes, with almost two feet in between the shortest and tallest recommended heights. The company uses progressively sized wheels and components and a modified top tube for the smaller bikes to deliver the same performance for each rider . 

The XS and Small sizes both have a curved top tube which lowers the standover height, which shorter riders have issues with, and ‘Smart Wheel Sizes’ means the smaller sizes get 27.5″ wheels instead of 29ers. In addition, the brake levers, handlebars, stems, and cranks all change throughout the size range. 

Reliable Bontrager Componentry 

Trek Bikes’ in-house brand Bontrager provides the whole build kit aside from the groupset and fork. These are well-made components that will stand the test of time. In addition, they are easy to replace by visiting the Trek online store. 

Premium all-black finish and quality Bontrager parts help Trek Marlin 4 look good and provide better value for the money.

It’s worth noting that the saddle, handlebars, seatpost, and stem are the same across the five Marlin bikes, which benefits the Marlin 4 and increases its value as it is the cheapest. 

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Sizing Chart

• XS — 4’9″-5’1″ / 145-155cm
• S —  5’1″-5’5″ / 155-165cm
• M —  5’5″-5’8″ / 165-173cm
• M/L — 5’8″-5’11” / 173-180cm
• L —  5’11”-6’2″ / 180-188cm
• XL —  6’2″-6’5″ / 188-195cm
• 2XL — 6’5″-6’8″ / 195-203cm

Who Is Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 Best Suited For?

The Trek Marlin 4 mountain bike is suitable for urban riders, commuters, and anyone who enjoys riding on light off-road paths, fire roads, and gravel trails. 

By equipping Trek Marlin 4 with a rear rack and kickstand, you can use it for commuting, running errands, or even bikepacking.

The level of components is typical for this price point, and they perform as expected. However, there are clear limitations to this bike’s capabilities off-road. So if you’re looking for a capable XC mountain bike, this isn’t it. 

Anyone looking for a cheap, reliable run around that doesn’t sacrifice style will appreciate the Trek’s Marlin 4. 

Other Trek Marlin Bikes We Reviewed:

• Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 7 Gen 2 Review
• Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

Is Marlin 4 Gen 2 a Good Buy?

We believe the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 is an excellent buy in the ~$600 price range, easily competing with similarly-priced hardtails like the Cannondale Trail 8 or Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0. 

Trek bikes are renowned for their reliability, and with the Marlin 4, you’re getting this reliability at an unbeatable price. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s got a sleek modern design that makes it look more expensive than it is. 

Consider the Marlin 4 if you want a Trek mountain bike that doesn’t break the bank and will get you from A to B in comfort and style.  

Buy from Trek Bikes

Share this on:

About the Author

Jordan Grimes

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trek Marlin 5 Hardtail Mountain Bike 2020 Matte Trek Black

With Pre-Order , you can purchase the latest items added to our store in advance of them arriving with us.

Your Pre-Order is prioritised (at no additional charge); meaning that as soon as the product arrives with us, we can wrap it straight back up; ready for collection via Click & Collect or despatch to you — it often never even hits the stock room shelves!

With Pre-Launch , the date when we expect to receive the product ourselves is still a little too hazy to be confident in accepting Pre-Orders.

So, instead, you can submit your email address against the item you are interested in and we will email you as soon as stock arrives on the system.

Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates are given on Pre-Order and Pre-Launch products. They are for indication purposes only and can change at any time without notice.

The dates we provide are based on indications given by our suppliers. Whenever we get updated information from our suppliers we will endeavour to update the Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates provided on product pages.

Not happy with your purchase? Send it back to us or return in any of our stores and we will give you a full refund or exchange!

In the unlikely event that you are dissatisfied with your purchase please feel free to return your goods within 60 days of the purchase date for a full exchange or refund. Any item (excluding food and underwear) can be returned to us for any reason provided it is returned in ‘showroom condition’, with its original packaging, tags and a valid receipt/delivery note. Simply box up your items for return, include a cover note with the word REFUND or EXCHANGE inside & follow the below steps for safe return to our warehouse; where your return will be processed promptly.

Return Items by Post

It is your responsibility to ensure that the item is returned to us in a safe and secure manner, and in the event of a refund or exchange, in saleable condition (in original packaging and including all warranty, cards, manuals and accessories).

Customers are accountable for return shipping charges.

• You should always keep proof of postage and we advise you to use a ‘signed for service’ when returning goods.
• Send your package using a recorded delivery method (always keep a copy of your receipt!) to the following address:

Leisure Lakes Bikes, Unit 9 Centurion Industrial Estate, Centurion Way, Leyland, PR25 4GU

Checkout by Amazon Returns

If you used the pay by Amazon option when checking out then please send your package using a recorded delivery method (always keep a copy of your receipt!) with a note inside stating whether you want an exchange (what you want it exchanging for) or refund, to the following address:

Leisure Lakes Bikes Unit 9 Centurion Industrial Estate Centurion Way Leyland, PR25 4GU

Bike & Bulky Item Returns

If you wish to return your bike to us please keep it in the box it arrived in and call us on 01772 644340 and we will arrange a collection.

Please note the following:

• a) If we have sent you the incorrect bicycle, we will cover the cost of collection and delivery of the correct model.
• b) If we have delivered the bicycle you ordered, but upon inspection you decide it is not the bike for you, we will charge you £50.00 for the collection.

Please do not ride the bike as a full refund cannot be given if the bike has been used or damaged.

Return Items to a store

Any item (excluding food and underwear) can be returned to any Leisure Lakes Bikes store not just the one you made your purchase at, including those made online. The item must be returned in ‘showroom condition’, with its original packaging, tags and with a valid receipt/delivery note.

Wrong size or you don't like the item?

If returning items that are not suitable for either refund or exchange you are accountable for the delivery cost in returning it to us. You should always keep proof of postage and we advise you to use a ‘signed for service’ when returning goods.

New faulty items/ Wrong Item Received

If you have received items that are faulty or not what you ordered send them back to us (using the steps above) and we will cover the delivery cost of the return if it is within 14 days of delivery. If we have supplied the correct product, it is not faulty or it is outside of the 14 days we can not be liable for your postage charges. You should always keep proof of postage and we advise you to use a ‘signed for service’ when returning goods.

In the event that you have received items that are fault or not what you ordered, please send them back to us as soon as possible. Only in these cases will we cover the cost of the return shipping charges.

Faulty Items

If you have received items that are faulty please send them back to us using the steps above. Please include a covering letter describing the fault and if you would like the item replacing or refunding. Once the item arrives back at our Mail Order Centre you will receive an email notifying you about the progress. Faulty items are then forwarded onto the suppliers to confirm the warranty issue. Please be patient with us as we need to receive this confirmation from the suppliers before we can process your request for a replacement/refund.

When returning the item please use Royal Mail1 st Class Recorded* so that you have a tracking reference just in case! If your item arrived faulty we will refund your postage cost. If the item was in full working order at the time of delivery to you, we can not refund your return postage cost.

*In the event that you return a faulty/incorrect item we will refund your postage charge as long as it is 1 st Class Recorded or a lesser value service. We do not refund premium services.

Refunds will be processed using the same method of payment used for the original purchase. Credit and debit card refunds must be made to the card used for the original transaction, cheque payments will be refunded in cash but due to banking restrictions can only be refunded at least 14 days after the original purchase date. Due to the high incidence of fraud we regret that we are unable to offer any refund without a valid receipt/delivery note.

Refunds will be made for faulty or incorrect items, including any delivery charge incurred by the buyer (excluding ‘Special Delivery’) in the return of the item. If the products you ordered are delivered to you in good condition but you wish to return them for any reason we will refund the full value of the goods excluding any carriage charge upon receipt of your returned goods.

Items won’t be considered lost until after 15 working days of items beingdispatched. Once the 15 working days are up we will issue a refund or replacement.

Not received your order?

If you have not received your order please call us on 01772 644340 and a member of staff can confirm the shipping date. Unfortunately we cannot consider an item to be lost until 15 working days has passed (according to Royal Mail procedure). Once the 15 working days have passed we will be able to issue a full refund or resend your order.

Season:2020

Code:565391-TREK19

The 2020 Trek Marlin 5 is a trail-worthy daily rider that's perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. A front suspension fork with 100mm of travel, 21 speeds and mounts for a rack and kickstand make it an ideal choice for new trail riders or anyone looking for a comfortable, stable commuter with the ruggedness of a real mountain bike.

If you're new to the trail and want a serious mountain bike that doubles as a commuter, and you want it all at exceptional value then the Marlin 5 is for you. Featuring a light-weight Alpha Silver Aluminium frame, 21 speeds, a wide range of gearing so you never need to pedal too hard or gently on terrain that varies in elevation, hydraulic disc brakes that feel smoother than mechanical disc brakes and a suspension fork with 100mm of travel - that's the same amount favoured by most cross-country racers.

The Trek Marlin is built in Trek's MTB heritage, and more than capable of taking on trail adventures. But it's also versatile, equipped with rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorise and carry a load.

Trek Marlin 5 2020 Features

• It's a real mountain bike that's also perfectly suited to daily commutes, rides around campus or just getting from A to B on any surface
• Smaller frame sizes (13.5" and 15.5") have short-reach brake levers that make it easier and more comfortable for riders with smaller hands to brake confidently
• It has separate brake and gear levers (a feature that's common on more expensive mountain bikes) so you can fine-tune the positioning for comfort
• Rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to accessorise, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter
• Like every Trek, it's backed by a lifetime warranty

2020 Trek Marlin 5 Build Highlights

• SR Suntour XCE 28 100mm travel fork
• Shimano 3x7-speed groupset
• Bontrager Connection rims with Formula hubs, paired to Bontrager XR2 29" tyres (13.5" & 15.5" frame sizes have 27.5" wheels)
• Tektro HD275 hydraulic disc brakes

Trek Men's Bike Sizing Guide

We have put together a general sizing guide for Trek road and mountain bikes. Please see the below for a general size and check out the Trek Bikes Sizing Guide for all bike model guides and how to measure yourself. 

Trek Men's Road Bike Sizing Guide

Trek men's mountain bike sizing guide, trek men's commute bike sizing guide, write a review for trek marlin 5 hardtail mountain bike 2020 matte trek black, also in the range.

• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2024 Living Coral
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2024 Crimson
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2024 Matte Hex Blue
• £1100 £1100 Trek Marlin 7 Hardtail Mountain Bike 2024 Pennyflake
• £1100 £1100 Trek Marlin 7 Hardtail Mountain Bike 2024 Crystal White
• £1100 £1100 Trek Marlin 7 Hardtail Mountain Bike 2024 Keswick
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2024 Dnister Black
• £850 £850 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2024 Miami Green/Dark Aquatic Fade
• £850 £850 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2024 Rage Red/Deep Dark Blue Fade
• £850 £850 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2024 Lava
• £850 £850 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2024 Galactic Grey/Lithium Grey Fade
• £600 £600 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2024 Purple Flip/Trek Black Fade
• £600 £600 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2024 Power Surge
• £600 £600 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2024 Alpine Blue/Deep Dark Blue Fade
• £600 £600 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2024 Matte Dnister Black
• £3000 £3000 Trek Marlin+ 8 Electric Mountain Bike 2024 Purple Flip To Black Fade
• £3000 £3000 Trek Marlin+ 8 Electric Mountain Bike 2024 Mercury
• £2500 £2500 Trek Marlin+ 6 Electric Mountain Bike 2024 Crimson
• £2500 £2500 Trek Marlin+ 6 Electric Mountain Bike 2024 Dnister Black
• £600 £600 Trek Marlin Mountain Bike Frame 2024 Matte Dnister Black
• £1025 £1025 Trek Marlin 8 Mountain Bike 2023 Crimson
• £1025 £1025 Trek Marlin 8 Mountain Bike 2023 Matte Dnister Black
• £775 £775 Trek Marlin 7 Mountain Bike 2023 Azure
• £775 £775 Trek Marlin 7 Mountain Bike 2023 Teal/Nautical Navy Fade
• £650 £775 Trek Marlin 7 Mountain Bike 2023 Galactic Grey
• £599 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2023 Matte Olive Grey
• £650 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2023 Blue Sage
• £650 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2023 Hex Blue/Deep Dark Blue
• £650 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2023 Dnister Black
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2023 Alpine Blue
• £550 £550 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2023 Volt/Miami Green
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2023 Dnister Black
• £475 £475 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2022 Anthracite
• £500 £500 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2023 Aloha Green
• £649 £925 Trek Marlin 8 Mountain Bike 2022 Red/Nautical
• £650 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2022 Dnister Rage Red/Dnister Black
• £599 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2022 Nautical Navy
• £599 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2022 Factory Orange
• £599 £650 Trek Marlin 6 Mountain Bike 2022 Dnister Black
• £550 £550 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2023 Radioactive Red
• £550 £550 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2023 Lithium Grey
• £399 £475 Trek Marlin 4 Mountain Bike 2022 Magenta
• £550 £550 Trek Marlin 5 Mountain Bike 2023 Azure
• £649 £925 Trek Marlin 8 Mountain Bike 2022 Alpine/Dnister

Important Links

Our services, help & info, customer support, opening times.

Our mail order phone lines are open:

Monday : 10am - 5pm

Tuesday - Friday : 9:30am - 5pm

Before calling, please visit our Contact Us page & have a look at our F.A.Q's - you may find the answer to your query!

12 UK Stores

Our stores are open 7 days a week*!

To find your nearest store & check their individual opening hours please visit our store finder page here .

• Rocky Mountain
• Specialized
• YT Industries
• Allied Cycle Works
• Black Market
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Early Rider
• EVO Bicycles
• Growler Bikes
• Guerrilla Gravity
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• Juiced Bikes
• View all brands
• Production Privee
• Rad Power Bikes
• Rambo Bikes
• Riese & Müller
• Soul Fast E Bikes
• Spark Cycleworks
• State Bicycle Co.
• Structure Cycleworks
• Surface 604
• Van Nicholas
• Vintage Electric
• We Are One Composites

• Cross Country

• All Mountain

Trek Marlin 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 14.59 kg / 32.17 lbs (with tubes)

At a glance

Marlin 5 is a trail-worthy daily rider that’s perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. A front suspension fork with 100mm of travel, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and kickstand make it an ideal choice for new trail riders or anyone looking for a comfortable, stable commuter with the ruggedness of a real mountain bike. 

Where To Buy

"Look fast, feel fast, go fast."

"Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that's affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard."

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Silver Aluminum, internal routing, chainstay disc brake mount, rack and kickstand mount, 135x5mm QR
• Fork SR Suntour XCE 28, coil spring, preload, G2 Geometry w/51mm offset on 29ers, 100mm travel (13.5: 80mm travel)
• Wheels Bontrager Connection 32-hole double-walled
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Bontrager XR2, 29x2.20˝ front, 29x2.0˝ rear (13.5 & 15.5: 27.5x2.20˝)
• Chain KMC Z51
• Crank Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24
• Shifters Shimano Altus M310, 7 speed
• Brakeset Tektro HD-275 hydraulic disc (13.5 & 15.5: Tektro HD-276 short reach lever)
• Handlebar Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada
• Seatpost Bontrager alloy, 2-bolt head, 31.6mm, 12mm offset
• Stem Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 7 degree, Blendr compatible
• Grips Bontrager XR Endurance Comp, lock-on
• Headset 1-1/8˝ threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings

Q: How much is a 2020 Trek Marlin 5?

A 2020 Trek Marlin 5 is typically priced around $550 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2020 Trek Marlin 5?

The 2020 Trek Marlin 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2020 Trek Marlin 5 weigh?

A 2020 Trek Marlin 5 weights M - 14.59 kg / 32.17 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size wheels does the 2020 Trek Marlin 5 have?

The 2020 Trek Marlin 5 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2020 Trek Marlin 5 should I get?

No comments on this bike yet. Why not be the first?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want more MTB in your mailbox?

The latest on mountain bikes delivered straight to your mailbox.

More Bikes in Range View All

Trek Marlin 6

Trek Marlin 7

Trek Marlin 8

More cross country bikes view all.

Specialized Epic EVO Expert

Internal cable routing, Inner tubes: Presta, 60mm valve

On-One Scandal SRAM GX

- Internal/external cable routing with internal dropper seatpost routing- Weight given for size MD- Frame weight: 2000g (size MD)

Lapierre e-Explorer 4.5

Deals view all, view all deals, recent posts view all.

Blackburn Honest Digital Pressure Gauge Review

It's 2020 people. The squeeze and bounce test doesn't cut it anymore (and this is…

Comparing Mountain Bikes

Mountain Bikes are complicated machines. They have parts from hundreds of different manufacturers, come in…

Undomestic Mountain Bikes: Here’s what we know

Update March 2020: Undomestic has announced that they are manufacturing frames "at this moment" and…

Send Feedback

Have a suggestion? Looking for a bike that's not on MTB Database? Or perhaps you've spotted an error?

We'd love to hear from you. Let us know with the form below.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About MTB Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best mountain bikes here on Mountain Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, suspension, reviews, images and more on current and past MTB’s. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Trek , Specialized , Giant , Santa Cruz , Norco and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for mountain bikes on MTB Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right mountain bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Bikes By Brand

Bikes by year, bikes by riding style, bikes by wheel size, popular bikes.

• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Comp
• 2022 Trek Marlin 6
• 2022 Specialized Enduro Comp
• 2022 Specialized S-Works Epic EVO
• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Expert
• 2022 Giant Fathom 29 1
• 2022 Trek Marlin 7

Latest Bikes

• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE 70'S
• 2023 Orange Phase 29 Factory
• 2022 Commencal META SX V4 TEAM Frame
• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE LTD
• 2023 Commencal META SX V4 - Frame
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 vario
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 silent

Bikes Insider

Trek Marlin 5 Review

Trek Marlin 5 is an entry-level bike from Treks’ Mountain Bikes series. It offers a lot of features you’d expect from an expensive bike like internal cable shifting and hydraulic brakes. Some of the recent updates to the model leading up to Trek Marin 5 2020 made it the best in the budget category and very easy to recommend to any trail riding beginner.

Trek Marlin 5 is one of the best entry-level mountain bikes and it’s perfect for you if you are

• trying to get into Mountain Biking or trailing and not sure if you’d like the sport. In this case, Marlin 5 makes for a great beginner-friendly bike which you can use to test and level up your training skills before upgrading to something more advanced. The Drivetrain of this bike provides you with a huge combination of speeds which can come handy.
• looking for a commuting bike for school, and your path involves a few rough roads or would enjoy a bit of trailing on the side as a hobby. If your commuting path involves some roads which need repair, Marlin 5 might be the perfect bike because unlike a hybrid at this price range you will be getting a good suspension with 100mm travel and a preload adjustment for switching between smoother rides and a bit rougher ones.
• trying to get the best of both worlds bike and not ready to spend big bucks on the more expensive bikes then Trek Marlin 5 is a match made in heaven. With the price range of 500-600 dollars, you will be getting a solid experience without breaking the bank.

This is our Trek Marlin 5 Review which provides a detailed overview of the bike with a comprehensive review of all the components and parts. There is also a specs list sorted down below for ease of access.

Trek Marlin 5 Specs

Trek Marlin 5 comes with a light-weight Trek Silver Alpha aluminium frame which offers sturdiness for your trails while still being light enough to not wear you down during long rides.

You can expect some pretty good welding with internal cable shift and brake hose routing which you see on more expensive bikes and it protects your cables from getting damaged from varying weather and landscapes.

This becomes all the more relevant in the mountain trail picture where the terrain does not side with the best of the conditions. The frame manages to hide all the cables inside the frame which also makes for a stunning look.

Going with the theme of Trek Marlin 5 making the best of both worlds when coming to Mountain Biking and Commuting, It has good rack mounts if you want to load your bike for longer trails.

We got a wide Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm with Blendr compatibility which enables you to mount accessories like lights, mobile phone dock, or a GoPro for your next adventure.

We got a matching Bontrager alloy with a 5mm rise and oversize clamping diameter which increases control and stability during the shakiest of rides.

Bontrager XR Endurance Comp on this bike provides a good grip for better handling and control. Although its non-traditional shape can feel a bit weird, they make for a good resting place for your palms, which you will appreciate on longer journeys.

Saddles in Marlin 5 are pretty straightforward, they use two variants of Bontrager Arvada depending on male/female versions.

Sizes and Variants

This particular model is very popular with beginning Mountain Bikers because it has a wide range of sizes to choose from which ensures that you are always on the best possible fit for you. 7 sizes are ranging from XS all the up to 2XL and come in two variants in frames depending on the version.

The Female version is almost the same as the Unisex version of the bike only changes being a different saddle variant and If you choose a Female XS or S size then you’ll be getting a curved upper tube for some extra standover.

There aren’t many good trail bikes for Women in this price range but Trek Marlin 5 is a good choice considering the women-specific saddle and frames.

A detailed overview of sizes and measurements for finding the best fit for you is provided in the table below.

Trek Marlin 5 Size Chart

Wheels and Rims

When it comes to wheels, Marlin 5 has smart wheels size which means that you are going to roll with the largest wheels size possible depending upon the size. The wheels come in the two most popular sizes, 27.5” for XS and S and 29” for everything from M to 2XL.

So an L or M is a Trek Marlin 5 29er while an XS or S is a Trek Marlin 5 27.5er

Both wheel sizes are big enough to provide a smooth riding experience on an MTB and also offer a low center of gravity for a sturdier control.

The Merlin 5 rolls on a Bontrager XR2, 29×2.20˝ in the front, and 29×2.0˝ on the rear but you should know, however, that these wheels are not tubeless but I don’t think that’s a deal-breaker because we are focusing on getting the essentials right at this price point. Having said that, a quick-release front wheel is a plus for quickly swapping your front in case of any damage.

Forks and Suspension

Coming to the Forks, Marlin 5 runs an SR Suntour XCE 28 which is a 28mm stanchion fork with 100mm travel which falls into the recommended range of 80-120mm by most mountain bikers. The suspension also comes with a preload, which can be used to adjust the shock and spring of the bike to an optimum range of operation. When it is raised, the bike will be on top of its travel and the converse closer to the bottom of its suspension travel.

Marlin 5 comes with Tektro HD-275 hydraulic disc brakes as opposed to Marlin 4’s Mechanical disc brakes which offers a more responsive and reliable experience in all types of weather conditions.

Hydraulic brakes are more relevant when it comes to Mountain Biking because you often need to make quick turns and pace changes. Using traditional mechanical caliper brakes can not only wear your brake pads quickly but also become unreliable during damp weather conditions. You can completely count on disc brakes on this situation because it is proven to be more weather resistant and pairing it up with hydraulics will ensure that you don’t have to pull the brakes as hard.

Most people coming from bikes using non-hydraulics quickly appreciate how game-changing hydraulic brakes are.

Trek also paid close attention to smaller sizes and equipped XS and S sizes with short reach levers to make it easy for bikers with smaller hands.

Most of the components on this bike are from Shimano which are known to be very reliable in the Mountain Biking space and rightfully so. The drivetrain consists of shifters, derailleurs, chain, cassette, and crankset.

Trek Marlin 5 is set up with a Shimano HG200, 12-32, 7-speed cassette in the rear, and a Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24 in the front. They both operate with the Shimano Tourney TY300 front and back derailleurs which offer a great variety of speeds and good shifting for both country trailing and rugged commuting.

One big pro with the Tourney setup is that they all work together perfectly with no off-brand components and there is no chance to cause any compatibility issues.

Marlin 5’s got Shimano Altus M310, 3X7 speed shifters which is a trigger shifters set up which you can easily operate with your thumb and index fingers quickly during your trial.

Trek Marlin 5 weight

So, How much does a Marlin 5 weigh? The Medium size comes in about 14.59 kg or 32.17 lbs when tubes and other components are attached.

This model has a combined weight limit of 136 kg or around 300lbs, this includes the weight of the biker, the bike and the cargo carried.

Trek Marlin 5 Price

Are trek bikes worth the money? let me tell you price is one of the main advantages for Marlin 5 because there are very few bikes that have a budget-friendly price tag while still maintaining that middle-ground between quality and price. This makes a huge difference because when a bike manufacturer wants to get the price down it is often reflected in the quality of the bike’s components.

You might have experienced this first hand if you used one of those target/Walmart bikes which try to sell people bikes with poor quality while still maintaining their profit margins. But unlike those other bike manufacturers, Trek found the perfect middle ground for a budget-friendly mountain bike which gets all the essentials right.

Looking at the specs sheet makes it quite apparent that Trek didn’t make many compromises with the quality as they use reliable components made by Shimano and Bontrager and not some off-brand company.

Like every other Marlin bicycle, Marlin 5 also comes with a lifetime warranty which is rare to see at this price range and always a sweet thing to have.

Trek Marlin 5 upgrades and accessories

As I previously mentioned above this is a great bike to get into trail riding and off-roading or just to see if you like the experience of Mountain biking before investing too heavily into it. But if you seem to enjoy and want to take the whole thing up a notch, upgrading some components will be in your best interests.

Marlin 5 is a great bike for normal to intermediate trail paths but if you are past those trails and want to enjoy more technical routes like mountain trails etc then investing in these components can make a great difference.

Trek Marlin 5 fork upgrade is one of the most recommended upgrades if you wish to improve your stability on a rocky/hilly path. This bike uses what’s called a G2 Geometry which means you can easily find and replace parts that fit your needs. If you have some good number of miles under your belt, I also recommend upgrading your grips and pedals but I would stop there.

While this is a good starter bike, I would suggest you switch to a better model specifically suiting your needs if you are willing to invest more in upgrading the components because investing in upgrading a starter bike has diminishing returns as you upgrade more and more as you have to worry about the core parts like frames and stem in the future.

With that being said these are some good upgrades you might want to consider for a more smooth riding experience.

There are some great accessories for Merlin 5 on the market because of its Blendr integration capability. After choosing a good mount for Blendr integration, I recommend this, your bike is ready for these cool accessories

I for sure think that some portion of Trek Marlin’s popularity comes from its design aesthetics and cool graphics. The design of the bike is easily on par with the more expensive bikes. And the colors of this model are very well chosen and suit all terrains and settings perfectly.

Trek Marlin 5 comes in three color options

• Matte Trek Black

Many fans anticipated an improved Trek Marlin 5 Red version (like the one in the past) which would have been very cool to see on the road but in my opinion all three look stunning.

We hope that you find this Trek Marlin 5 review useful, to clear a bit more on the topics there is a FAQ’s section below where we have included most frequently asked questions by customers.

According to Trek Bike Archives, Trek started making Marlin 5’s from 2015.

Trek Marlin 5 ranges around 500-600$ price range which makes for a budget-friendly bike for trail riding as well as commuting. Check the price here.

Front tires are mounted on Trek Marlin 5 using a quick-release front wheel, which enables you to swap out the damaged wheel and mount a new one with relative ease.

This depends on many factors like your height and inseam measurements. Find a comprehensive specific measurement table here.

Trek Marlin has disc brakes which means you should not oil them. Oiling aside even touching the rotors with your bare hands might contaminate the rotors with your body oils and decrease the braking capacity.

Oiling disc brakes are considered the number one cardinal sin so make sure to avoid it all costs. If by any means oil made its way to the rotors use alcohol or de-greaser with a kitchen paper or dry clean cloth to remove it.

It comes with a Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 7-degree stem which is Blendr compatible enabling you to mount different accessories.

The frame and most of the other skeleton are made of light-weight Trek Silver Alpha Aluminium which offers very good manoeuvrability and sturdiness still being pretty light.

With rack mounts available on the back of the Marlin 5, you can easily mount a child seat. One good suggestion would be this.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Marlin 4 Gen 2

"Look fast, feel fast, go fast."

"Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that's affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard."

Load up. Or not.

Whether you're after a lightweight singletrack shredder or sticking to the pavement on your commute to work, Marlin is compatible with all the gear you need to have a great ride.

5 things to do before every mountain bike ride

Do this quick pre-ride safety check before you hit the trails.

Product features

Will my bike have a curved top tube.

Smaller frames have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frame sizes have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Fit for every rider

Marlin comes in seven frame sizes to suit riders of any height, and Smart Wheel Size ensures you’re on the fastest wheel that fits. The smallest sizes even come with short-reach brake levers and narrower handlebars that give smaller riders better comfort and control.

High tech, high value

Marlin looks and feels great. It’s packed with features usually found only on more expensive bikes, like a stylish frame with internal shift cable and brake hose routing, which can help your cables last longer by protecting them from the elements.

Upgrade your pedals and love your bike more

Pedals are two of the five touchpoints that connect you with your bike, and even though this bike comes with a pair, upgrading to pedals that boost control and grip will greatly improve your ride. See the pedal guide and find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend flat pedals for simple versatility.

Rear kickstand mount

Chainstay mounts make it easy to install a rear kickstand that stays out of your way and supports bikes of all sizes. No more laying or leaning.

Rack mounts

Going for a long ride? Rack mounts make carrying accessories a breeze.

Blendr stem

Bontrager stem technology lets you clip your gear directly to the stem for clean looks, maximum user friendliness.

Internal cable routing

We route shift and brake cables through the frame to keep things clean and simple. And it looks great, too.

Mechanical disc brakes

Reliable stopping power in all conditions, including wet and muddy.

• Go! E-bikes
• Accessories
• Find a retailer

ABOUT ELECTRA

• Electra history
• Flat Foot Technology
• Brand partners
• Electra Funbassadors
• Work at Electra
• Customer care
• Bike registration
• Manuals & user guides
• Shipping & delivery
• Newsletter signup
• Global distributors
• How to shop safely
• Privacy policy & terms of use
• Accessibility
• Cookie policy
• California Transparency Act

United States / English

• © Electra Bicycle Company 2024

• Account Account
• Store Store
• Subtotal : $ 0.00 Checkout Cart
• Bicycling Catalog
• Marlin 4 Gen 2

Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2

Marlin 4 is the perfect gateway to trail riding. It's ideal for new riders who want a mountain bike with knobby tires that can double as a rugged commuter. Disc brakes, front suspension, 21 speeds, and mounts for a rack and fenders make this a great bike for new trail riders and campus commuters alike. It's right for you if... You want an introductory mountain bike at an incredible price but also want a commuter that's rugged enough to hop curbs on the way to class. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with internal routing to protect your cables and add to the bike's sleek look, 21 speeds, a wide range of gearing so you always have the right gear for your terrain, powerful mechanical disc brakes, and a suspension fork that takes the edge off bumps and rough terrain. The final word Marlin is made for any adventure. The rack and fender mounts make it a great choice for commuters who want to get a little rad on the way to class or the grocery store. Why you'll love it - It's a real mountain bike that's also perfectly suited to daily commutes, rides around campus, or just getting from A to B on any surface - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - Smaller frame sizes (XS and S) have short-reach brake levers that make it easier and more comfortable for riders with smaller hands to brake confidently - Marlin models in XS and S frame sizes have a curved top tube and a lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount - Like every model in the Marlin family, it's backed by Trek's lifetime warranty Wheel size: - Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch - Sizes Medium – XX-Large: 29-inch

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XXS-S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. The larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Shop in-store for even more deals!

Shop in store for even more deals we can't advertise!

Mountain Bike Suspension Service

Trade In Your Bike

• Base Layers
• Mountain Bike Shorts
• Bibs, Tights + Knickers
• Mountain Bike Shoes

SAFETY GEAR

• Adult Helmets
• Youth Helmets
• Road Helmets
• Casual Wear
• Road Bike Shorts
• Bibs, Tights & Knickers
• Road Bike Shoes
• Accessories/Parts

Safety Gear

• Women's Helmets
• Road Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bike Helmets

WHEELS & TIRES

• Road Wheels
• Mountain Bike Wheels
• Mountain Bike Tires
• Wheels Accessories and Parts
• Derailleurs
• Chains & Cassettes
• Cranks and Chainrings
• Bottom Brackets
• Cables and Housing
• Power Meters

BRAKES & PEDALS

• Clipless Pedals
• Flat Pedals
• Mountain Bike Brake Sets
• Mountain Bike Brake Pads
• Road Bike Brakes and Pads
• All Brakes/Levers/Pads

Forks & Cockpit

• Grips and Bar Tape
• Rigid Forks
• Suspension Forks

Accessories

• Car Rack Accessories
• Electronics
• Front Lights
• Tail Lights
• Locks/Security
• Media/Resources
• Bicycle Mounted Racks
• Pumps/Inflation
• Tools/Maintenance
• Trailers/Strollers
• Trainers/Rollers
• Travel/Storage
• Water Bottles & Cages

Brand Guides

Bike buyer's guides, gear guides, new bike releases, summit bicycles online (855) 245-3663 [email protected] email, burlingame (650) 343-8483 [email protected] email, summit outfitters (408) 878-3252 [email protected] email, los gatos (408) 399-9142 [email protected] email, san jose (408) 264-2453 [email protected] email, palo alto (650) 304-0035 [email protected] email, summit bicycles mobile we'll come to you schedule mobile service today, (855) bike-one - for online orders and rental inquiries.

• Account Account
• Subtotal : $ 0.00 Checkout Cart
• Bicycling Catalog
• 29-Inch Wheel (29ers)
• Marlin 6 Gen 3

Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3

Marlin 6 is the perfect ride for progressing your skills on the trails. Its updated slacker frame geometry makes it easier to control on descents while the suspension fork takes the edge off bumpy trails. Integrated rack and kickstand mounts make it easy to add accessories to this versatile steed. It's right for you if... You want a trail bike that's dialed for building confidence on the dirt, and versatile enough for commuting to work or school. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with modern trail riding geometry and internal routing that keeps cables protected and keep the bike looking sleek. A front suspension fork that cushions rocks, roots, and bumps in the trail, 10-speed fuss-free Shimano Deore shifting, and the serious stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The final word Marlin 6 is an ideal trail bike for riders who want to progress on the trail, and want a bike that can keep them rolling off of the trail, too. Why you'll love it - You get real-deal modern mountain bike geometry that keeps handling confident when you're on singletrack, but it's versatile enough for use on roads and bike paths, too - Rack and fender mounts make it easy to accessorize, so your mountain bike can double as a rugged commuter - The new Thru-Skew system is safer, simpler, and stronger, plus it makes removing the rear wheel for flat fixes a cinch. - Internal routing makes it easy to add a dropper post that lets you lower you saddle on the fly for more confident descending - Marlin models in sizes XXS and XS have a curved top tube and lower standover height that makes it easier for smaller riders to mount and dismount Features: Expanded size range With 8 different sizes, Marlin has a bike made to fit every rider. Each frame is equipped with smart wheel sizing, with XXS frames rolling on 26" wheels, and wheel sizes increasing proportionally along with frame sizes, so every rider gets the fit they need. Trail-ready, Upgrade-ready The secret to Marlin's popularity is a real trail-savvy mountain bike frame that's upgrade compatible, so it can grow with you as you take on bigger trails and tougher features. Roll stronger with Thru Skew Goodbye open dropouts. The Thru Skewer is a better, stronger, more precisely aligned rear wheel retention system that keeps your wheel more secure than quick-release skewers while still using the standard 135mm rear hub spacing.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

• Скидки дня
• Справка и помощь
• Адрес доставки Идет загрузка... Ошибка: повторите попытку ОК
• Продажи
• Список отслеживания Развернуть список отслеживаемых товаров Идет загрузка... Войдите в систему , чтобы просмотреть свои сведения о пользователе
• Краткий обзор
• Недавно просмотренные
• Ставки/предложения
• Список отслеживания
• История покупок
• Купить опять
• Объявления о товарах
• Сохраненные запросы поиска
• Сохраненные продавцы
• Сообщения
• Уведомление
• Развернуть корзину Идет загрузка... Произошла ошибка. Чтобы узнать подробнее, посмотрите корзину.

Product Key Features

• Handlebar Type Flat Bar
• Number of Speeds 7 Speed
• Color Black
• Shifter Style Thumb Shifter
• Gear Change Mechanism Derailleur Gears
• Frame Size Medium
• Wheel Size 29 in
• Model Year 2020
• Features Adjustable Seat
• Bike Type Mountain Bike
• Tire Type Tubular Tires
• Material Aluminum, Alloy
• Brake Type Disc Brake - Hydraulic
• Suspension Type Front
• Item Height X-Large
• Item Weight 31 lb

We'll take care of you. Period.

It's our mission to provide you with world-class hospitality every time you visit us online or in-store. We're always here to help you. It's the Trek way.

Free shipping and professional assembly

All bikes ordered online ship for free to your local Trek shop for professional assembly. Participating retailers will even deliver your new ride to your doorstep!

30 Day Unconditional Guarantee

If for any reason you aren't 100% happy with your trekbikes.com purchase, you can return it in like new condition within 30 days - no questions asked.

"Look fast, feel fast, go fast."

"Unlike some bikes on the cheap end of the spectrum that cater to the recreational user, this one is aimed firmly at entry-level riders who want a bike that's affordable yet capable of riding and racing hard."

More options

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

Featured city guides.