TREK Marlin+ 8

About the Trek Marlin+ 8

With a mission to get more people on bikes, Trek made a major step in that direction by electrifying one of their most popular hardtail bikes to introduce the Trek Marlin+ 8. Combining robust mountain biking construction with the boost of e-bike technology, the Marlin+8 is designed to cater to riders looking for a versatile eMTB that performs well on both rugged trails and urban roads. 

Equipped with a powerful Bosch Active Line Plus motor, ultra-durable aluminum frame, tubeless-ready tires and superior Shimano shifting, the Marlin+ 8 is the ultimate electric hardtail to deliver the boost you need to conquer steep inclines or challenging commutes—without breaking the bank. 

Key Features of the Trek Marlin 8+ eBike 

A stacked set of high-quality features highlight the Trek Marlin+ 8’s capability to handle a variety of terrains and riding conditions, making it a versatile option for a wide range of riders looking to embrace the world of electric mountain biking.

• Bosch Active Line Plus Motor: Supplying a smooth 50Nm of torque and powered by an internal Bosch CompactTube 400 watt hour (Wh) battery to help give you the boost you need to achieve speeds of 20mph/32kph while still maintaining that natural feel.
• Two-in-One Remote Control: Get all of the information and control you need at your fingertips with a compact Purion 200 handlebar remote featuring built-in display. 
• Set-and-Forget Auto Mode: Similar to cruise control in cars, the AUTO mode adaptive motor automatically adjusts the assistance level to help stabilize your speed.   
• Expandable Energy: Pump up your pedaling power by adding a 250Wh Bosch PowerMore range extender battery (sold separately) to increase range by more than 60 percent.
• UL Certified: All Trek e-bikes e-systems are third-party tested to meet leading e-bike safety standards, including stringent UL 2849 certification.
• 12-Speed Shimano Deore Shifting: Wide range of gear choices to handle all types of terrain, plus improved chain stability and sharp shifting. 
• Trail-Specific Suspension: The Rock Shox 120mm suspension keeps your ride feeling smooth over nearly any terrain, plus the dropper seatpost and front and rear thru axles add extra responsive handling. 
• Tubeless-Ready Tires: Wide 2.6-inch tubeless-ready tires help increase maneuverability while preventing flats. 
• Flexible Fit: Both tall and petite riders, plus everyone in between, can find a fit that feels just right with five different sizes to choose from. 

The Trek Marlin+ 8 also offers plenty of customizable accessories and options to provide the ride of your dreams. 

Technical Specifications of the Trek Marlin+ 8

Loaded with top-tier technology at an affordable price, the Marlin+ 8 is the perfect entry into the world of electric mountain biking while also being versatile enough for everyday use. 

• Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus 250W motor with high torque output
• Battery: Bosch CompactTube 400Wh
• Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminum, hydroformed tubing, internal cable routing
• Suspension: Front suspension with 120mm travel
• Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 1×12-speed drivetrain
• Brakes: Shimano four-piston hydraulic, 203mm rotors
• Tires: Wide 2.6” tubeless-ready tires in four sizes 
• Weight: Approximately 47 pounds (21.32 kg)
• Range: Two to four hours on a single charge, depending on terrain and rider weight

Pricing and Availability of the Marlin+ 8

The Marlin+ 8 is Trek’s entry-level eMTB, but they certainly didn’t skimp on features or construction. Priced at about $3,500, it’s considered to be more budget-friendly than similarly stocked models on the market. While the price might be steep for some, the value offered by the bike’s performance and durability justifies the investment. Discount and promotions may be available, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

The Marlin+ 8 is available for purchase directly from Trekbikes.com or their retail stores, as well as from authorized dealers and select retailers. You can choose to have your bike shipped to your local Trek bike shop, directly to your home or fully assembled and delivered to your doorstep ready to go. 

Returns and Warranties 

Trek offers a 30-day “test ride” on bikes purchased directly through their website, meaning that if you’re not satisfied, you can return your like-new eMTB within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. 

And even more importantly, the Marlin+ 8 electric mountain bike is backed by a limited lifetime warranty from Trek that covers defects in workmanship and materials. The Bosch drive systems on the Marlin+ are covered by a separate warranty from Bosch.

Performance Analysis of the Marlin+ 8 E-Bike

The Marlin+ 8 is Trek’s do-it-all entry into eMTBs, constructed with high-quality materials and a powerful Bosch motor and battery for tackling everything from tough trails to city streets.

Motor and Battery Performance

The Marlin+ 8’s 250W motor delivers an impressive 50Nm of torque, providing the power needed to achieve speeds up to 20mph/32kph and conquer steep inclines and rough terrain with ease. The motor’s responsiveness ensures smooth acceleration, while the battery’s 400Wh capacity offers ample range for extended rides. The Marlin+ 8 also comes with three levels of pedal assist (Eco, Tour+ and Turbo) that you can activate based on your preference, or you can choose to engage the AUTO mode that will automatically shift assistance, recognizing speed reductions and tweaking support to help even out your pace. In real-world testing, the bike consistently impressed, often exceeding advertised ranges even on challenging trails.

Handling and Ride Quality

The bike’s geometry and suspension system are optimized for stability and control, making it easy to navigate tight corners and rough terrain while still maintaining a very natural-feeling ride. The front suspension features an air-spring fork with adjustable damping, adjustable air pressure and preload, plus lockout to absorb everything from small bumps to bigger hits effectively, while the hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. Plus the Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain offers a wider range of gears—510 percent more to be exact—to help you sail over virtually any surface. But a big contributor to the ultra-comfortable ride quality is undoubtedly the Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR tires. The wider design features tubeless-ready flexibility, which means you can have a professional remove the tubes to allow you to run on lower tire pressure, helping to improve ride quality and resistance without slowing you down. 

Durability and Design 

Marlin+ 8 brings the same value, versatility and performance that made Trek’s hardtail Marlin mountain bike so popular. The geometry closely aligns with the fan-favorite Marlin to provide a better trail experience while providing pedal assistance by Bosch, the most trusted name in electric assist systems. The Trek Marlin+ 8 is designed with rider comfort in mind, built with a sturdy aluminum frame that strikes a balance between strength and weight, outshining others in this lower price range. The attention to detail in the construction ensures that the bike can withstand the rigors of off-road use without compromising comfort. Trek produces the Marlin+ 8 in five different sizes so the majority of customers can find their perfect fit, catering to riders from 4’9” to 6’5″. Whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the trails on the weekend, the Marlin+ 8 offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

Comparing the Marlin+ 8 with Other E-Bikes

When compared to other electric mountain bikes in its category, the Trek Marlin+ 8 holds its own with its high-quality components and well-rounded performance at a more affordable price. 

Trek Marlin+ 8 vs. Aventon Aventure

Both the Trek Marlin+ 8 and the Aventon Aventure cater to riders looking for a powerful and versatile e-bike experience, but they differ in several key areas. The Marlin+ 8 is designed with a focus on off-road performance, featuring a premium Bosch mid-drive motor that delivers superior torque and a more balanced ride on rugged trails. In contrast, the Aventon Aventure, with its rear hub motor and extra-wide tires, offers a more affordable entry point into the e-bike market and is better suited for casual riders who prioritize comfort and ease of use over high-end trail performance. While the Marlin+ 8’s comes in at a higher price point, it’s still competitively priced and its advanced components, construction and durability make it a better choice for people looking to embrace the electric mountain bike experience, while the Aventon Aventure appeals to those looking for a capable, yet budget-friendly, all-terrain e-bike.

Trek Marlin+ 8 vs. Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0

The Trek Marlin+ 8 and the Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0 are both hardtail eMTBs, but each brings unique advantages to the table. The Marlin+ 8 is engineered for durability and versatility, making it an ideal choice for riders who want a bike that performs well on both technical trails and urban streets. The Turbo Tero 3.0 stands out with its refined motor system, offering a smooth and seamless riding experience, but few can beat the overall performance and power of the Marlin+ 8’s Bosch Active Line Plus motor with superior torque. And while the Turbo Tero 3.0 is a great entry-level e-bike, the advanced components, extra perks like a dropper post and better suspension, and more custom sizing makes the slightly higher price point of the Marlin+ 8 well worth the investment. 

Bottom Line: Why We Love It

If you’re itching to test the trails on an eclectic mountain bike, but want something versatile enough to also carry you through a commute, the Trek Marlin+ 8 eMTB should be at the top of your list. Blending the hardtail geometry of Trek’s bestselling mountain bike with the modern convenience of electric assistance, the Marlin+ 8 gives you the boost you need to make it to the summit or city while still enjoying the ride. Its high quality components featuring names like Bosch and Shimano, user-friendly design, customizable sizing and competitive pricing make it a strong contender for a wide range of riders. From single-track trails to the bustling streets, the Trek Marlin+ 8 is a great gateway into the electric mountain biking world that won’t break the bank.