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Today’s DealsSan Quentin 3
A 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail trail bike with upper mid-range components.
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Manufacturer Price
$2,239| Frame | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Suspension | Hardtail, 130mm |
| Fork | RockShox Revelation RC |
| Wheels | 27.5″ Aluminum |
| Drivetrain | 1 × 12 |
| Groupset | SLX, Deore |
| Brakes | Shimano Hydraulic Disc |
| Seatpost | Dropper |
5'2" – 5'6"
5'4" – 5'9"
5'7" – 6'0"
5'10" – 6'3"
Summary
The Marin San Quentin trail bike is praised for its aggressive geometry and confident descending capabilities, making it a standout for steep and technical trails. Its solid build and progressive sizing cater to both less experienced riders and those looking to push limits, though some reviews note compromises in climbing efficiency and component quality. The bike's performance shines in rough conditions, with its suspension and tire setup receiving particular acclaim for handling challenging terrain.
Aggressive geometry for confident descending
Solid build and progressive sizing
Good performance in rough and technical conditions
Competitive pricing for the features offered
Engaging and fun to ride on steep trails
Compromised climbing efficiency due to weight and gear range
Basic suspension components on some models
Stock tires and brakes may require upgrades for optimal performance
Feels sluggish on flat or hard-packed trails
Limited gear range and no dropper post on entry-level models
The Marin San Quentin is an exercise in determining the logical limits of how rowdy a trail you can design a modern hardtail for
As soon as there’s any negative gradient, it starts to come alive.
With progressive, generous and a sorted specification, we couldn’t wait to do time on the new Marin San Quentin 2.
The geometry is solid because good geometry is free.
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Sep 2022
The complete Marin San Quentin 1 (SQ1) hardtail costs about the same amount of money as a top-end RockShox suspension fork and it's a fun choice for the aspiring or casual mountain biker looking for a budget-friendlier gateway rig for Blue-level trails.

Nov 2020 · McCoy
Tough as Nails

Oct 2019 · Tom Marvin
Compromised spec, but the descent-focused geometry starts to shine on steeper terrain
Aggressive geometry makes it a confident descender
Wide rims give tyres good volume and shape
High weight and limited gear range compromise climbing potential
Spec choice

Jan 2019
What happens when a brand known for its outlandish value makes an outlandish hardtail?

Oct 2018 · Alan Muldoon
With progressive geometry, generous sizing and a sorted specification, we couldn’t wait to do time on the new Marin San Quentin 2.
Progressive sizing and geometry.
Needs 2.6in tyres and a dropper.
| Frame | Series 3 6061 Aluminum, Double Butted Frame, Internal Shifter and Dropper Post Routing, External Brake, 12x148mm Thru-Axle, 73mm Threaded BB BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded Color: Gloss Red / Black |
|---|---|
| Fork | RockShox Revelation RC, 110x15mm Boost Spacing, Fast Black Stanchions, 130mm Travel, Bolt-On Thru-Axle, 37mm Offset Travel: 130mm Spring Type: Air |
| Bottom Bracket | Mega EXO 73mm BSA |
| Headset | FSA No 57E, Semi-Sealed Cartridge Bearings, 1 1/8" x 1 1/2” |
| Stem | Marin 3D Forged Alloy, 35mm |
| Handlebar | Marin Mini-Riser, 6061 Double Butted Aluminum, 780mm Width, 28mm Rise, 5º Up, 9º Back |
| Saddle | Marin Speed Concept |
| Seatpost | X-Fusion Manic, 1x Composite Remote, Size S 125mm Travel, All Other Sizes: 150mm Travel, 30.9mm Type: Dropper |
| Pedals | Nylon Platform |
| Grips | Marin Single Clamp Locking |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore, 12-Speed, SGS |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | - |
| Crank | FSA Comet, Modular 1x, 32T Direct Mount Chainring, MegaTooth Technology, Boost Spacing |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore, 12-Speed, SL-7100R |
| Cassette | Shimano, Deore 12-Speed, 10-51T |
| Chain | KMC X-12 Silver and Black |
| Brakes | Shimano MT420, 4-Piston Hydraulic Disc Brake, 203mm Rotor Type: Shimano Hydraulic Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano MT4100 Hydraulic Lever, I-Spec EV Compatible |
| Rims | Marin Aluminum Double Wall, 29mm Inner, Sleeved Joint, Disc Specific, 32H, Tubeless Compatible |
|---|---|
| Front Hub | Shimano HF-MT410B, 110x15mm, Centerlock |
| Rear Hub | Shimano HB-MT410B, 148x12mm, Centerlock, Microspline Freehub Body |
| Tires | Maxxis Assegai, 27.5x2.5", 3C MAXX TERRA, EXO, Tubeless Compatible |
First added December 23
Last updated April 6
Not listed for 1,868 days