The Giant and Trek Mountain Bike battle! Which bike is best? Let’s compare these popular budget cross-country mountain bikes and see which one comes out on top.
We are going to compare these two iconic bikes side by side and see what the difference is between each.
We compared these bikes and discovered that the Trek Marlin offers more build options which allows for the best choice of bike suited to your specific skill level and needs. We have also reviewed the Trek Marlin.
First, let’s compare their entry-level beginner-friendly cross-country options
Giant Talon 4 vs Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2
| Giant Talon 4 | Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799 | $799 |
| Weight | 14.84 kg | 14.4 kg |
| Tire Clearance | 2.4” | 2.2” |
| Stack/Reach Ratio (Upright?) | 1.44 | 1.39 |
| Trail (Steering Speed) | 94 | 93 |
| Chainstay | 455 mm | 438 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1150 mm | 1116 mm |
| Frame/Fork | Alloy / 80 mm travel | Alloy / 100 mm travel |
| Gear Range | 19.93” to 86.66 | 24.50” to 85.46” |
| Speed at largest gear (90 rpm) | 37.3 kph / 23.2 mph | 36.8 kph / 22.9 mph |
| Speed at granny gear (90 rpm) | 8.6 kph / 5.3 mph | 10.6 kph / 6.6 mph |
| Groupset | 2×7 Shimano Tourney | 3×7 Shimano Tourney |
| Stock Tires | 27.5 or 29 x 2.2” | 27.5 x 2.2” or 29 x 2” |
To summarize the above comparison table we can conclude that the Trek Marlin 4 is lighter, has more front suspension travel, a more aggressive handlebar positioning, and shorter chainstay, and wheelbase making for a faster handling bike that would be less stable.
While the Giant Talon 4 is a little heavier, has larger tire clearance, and has a more superior climbing gear for the steeper stuff. With a more panted feel with the longer chainstay and wheelbase. And a more upright and comfortable stack/reach ratio.
Okay, time to compare their mid-range cross-country bike options. This should be a rather fair battle. Comparing the Giant Talon 1 and the Trek Marlin. Again a 2022 Talon model and 2023 Marlin model, so keep that in mind.
| Giant Talon 1 | Trek Marlin 6 Gen 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $900 | $899 |
| Weight | 14.12 kg / 31.13 lbs | 14.79 kg / 32.6 lbs |
| Tire Clearance | 2.4” | 2.4” |
| Stack/Reach Ratio (Upright?) | 1.44 | 1.38 |
| Trail (Steering Speed) | 94 | 110 |
| Chainstay | 455 mm | 438 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1150 mm | 1163 mm |
| Frame/Fork | Alloy / Giant SXC32-2 with 80 mm travel | Alloy / Suntour XCT with 100 mm travel |
| Gear Range | 22.26” to 85.23” | 19.04” to 79.96” |
| Speed at largest gear (90 rpm) | 36.7 kph / 22.8 mph | 34.5 kph / 21.4 mph |
| Speed at granny gear (90 rpm) | 9.6 kph / 6 mph | 8.2 kph / 5.1 mph |
| Groupset | 1×10 Deore | 1×10 Deore |
| Stock Tires | 29×2.4” | 29 x 2.4” |
The Talon seems to be lighter again, with the largest gear for descending fast and a longer chainstay.
Both bikes have the same tire clearance, the same quality components
However, the Marlin has superior climbing gear inches. Slightly more affordable price tag, and that longer trial for more relaxed steering and longer wheelbase. With the 20mm longer front suspension travel.
Let’s compare their higher-end cross-country models for these bikes. Most of the higher-end bikes for the Talon range are all electric mountain bikes. So we are comparing the 2022 Giant Talon 0 to the New Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3. (Not quite the fairest comparison but close enough.)
Want to learn more about understanding bike geometry? Read this article which goes through all the jargon and what it means for a comfortable ride!
| Giant Talon 0 | Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,031 | $1,299 |
| Weight | 13.87 kg / 30.58 lbs | 14.29 kg / 31.5 lbs |
| Tire Clearance | 2.4” | 2.4” |
| Stack/Reach Ratio (Upright?) | 1.44 | 1.38 |
| Trail (Steering Speed) | 94 | 110 |
| Chainstay | 455 mm | 438 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1150 mm | 1163 mm |
| Frame/Fork | Alloy / Giant SXC32-2 (coil) with 80 mm travel | Alloy / RockShox Judy Silver TK (air) with 80 mm travel |
| Gear Range | 18.45” to 93.72” | 17.57” to 79.96” |
| Speed at largest gear (90 rpm) | 40.4 kph / 25.1 mph | 34.5 kph / 21.4 mph |
| Speed at granny gear (90 rpm) | 8 kph / 4.9 mph | 7.6 kph / 4.7 mph |
| Groupset | 1×12 Deore | 1×12 SX Eagle |
| Stock Tires | 29×2.4” | 29 x 2.4” |
The Giant Talon 0 is a previous year’s model and they do not have a modern version. The Trek Marlin seems to be the most recommended choice. Not only that. The Marlin 8 has better quality groupset components and more superior climbing gear with a handy 17.5” which is great for mountain biking on those steep climbs. The trail on this Marlin is on the longer end for mountain bikes giving a slower, but calmer, steering response.
The Talon is lighter and more affordable but only if you can find one. The next best model is the Talon 1. You get a more upright riding position.
Both bikes have the same suspension travel and tire clearance.
Type & Purpose
As we can tell the Trek Marlin seems like the superior bike across the board when it comes to cross-country mountain biking applications, especially for climbing.
The Talon seems to shine if you want an electric cross-country bike as they have many options to choose from in this department.
And because of Giant’s limited standard Talon models, it makes the Marlin a better choice as they offer builds for all levels.
Price Range
Talon: $534 to $3,141*
Marlin: $568 to $3,574*
Model Availability
There are so many different models to choose from for each bike.
Trek seems to have more model options to suit a variety of riding styles and skill levels. While the Giant Talon range is mostly e-bikes these days some of the previous year’s models offer some great choices. But Trek has the most choice. Which means bikes that are better suited for your specific needs.
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