I've been wanting a newer mountain bike for a while. The timing was right this summer, especially after avoiding a busy lakefront trail and seeking solitude, feeling settled in a new house, and beginning to search for a new job. Plus, I had pared down to 4 bicycles (possibly deleting one more depending on upcoming job location). It also seemed fortuitous that we have a nice local wooded trail system 2 miles from our house. After experimenting with 1X gearing on fat bikes and a rented mountain bike, I wanted easy peasy shifting. Only prerequisites: 1x gearing, hardtail, and a colorful frame. Our youngest son, who loves mountain biking, was back up support, and technician (to help me learn disc brakes at the very least). He has a full suspension bicycle, so, of course he's an all-around ace to help me choose a quality, beginner's mountain bike. I love when our children teach us about new things!
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| My new toy: a Trek Marlin 7 |
I was prepared to wait a long while before finding the right bike. I'd heard about low inventory, backorders, etc. Maybe I'd get one sometime next year...
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| Kind of weird that I got rid of one Trek and bought another in 2020. |
However, the last bike in a local shop that met my criteria - in the best colorway ever - in my opinion was available. With my son's blessing, I came home a day later with a Trek Marlin 7.
I immediately swapped the seat for a more plush version, added a water bottle cage, and squeezed in a frame bag - all items from my stash.
Now that it's cooler, and autumn splendor has arrived, I get out 2-3 times a week, plodding and exploring, sometimes with my son, but often alone - sometimes it's better setting my own pace on gentle trails. Lately, I tell my son about areas he's yet to explore!
I'll say it again.. pretty bike. I hope it brings you much joy.
ReplyDeleteThanks Randy. As you know, I think long and hard about about whether to get another bike. Our local trails sold me, but we also have numerous trails within 30 minutes of us so having fun will be easy,especially with my son.
DeleteVery nice addition! It looks like it will be seeing a lot of use. Enjoy the ride!
ReplyDeleteThanks Josh. Yes, lots of playing. I've needed that this year.
DeleteNice one! Looking forward to reading about the places it takes you. Like the colors too; a good match to the autumn foliage.
ReplyDeleteThanks Michael. I noticed also the foliage - appropriate frame color.
DeleteYay! New bikes are always fun. I'm glad you were able to find something (as you said, many are having trouble finding new bikes these days) that works well for you. I look forward to reading more about it as you go on your adventures together. Bonus: you can mountain bike with your son too! :) Wishing you and your new friend many happy rides together!!
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