Marin’s trail bikes, the Rift Zone and San Quentin series, are designed to meet the needs of modern trail riders, from those looking for an all-rounder full-suspension bike to aggressive riders seeking a hardtail that can handle airtime and technical terrain. These models combine modern geometry, premium materials, and advanced suspension systems to provide the best ride experience, whether you’re tackling flowy singletrack or rugged downhill sections.
Rift Zone: Versatility and Progressive Performance
The Rift Zone series is Marin’s most popular trail bike lineup, offering a well-rounded mix of performance, control, and comfort. Built with 130mm of MultiTrac suspension, this bike is ideal for riders seeking a balanced platform that excels in both climbing and descending. The Series 3 aluminium frame is lightweight and durable, with detailed tube shaping and forgings, making it an upgrade-worthy platform for serious trail riders.
Key Features:
- 130mm MultiTrac Suspension: The MultiTrac suspension system is designed to handle big hits while maintaining an efficient pedaling platform. It provides excellent small bump sensitivity, absorbing trail chatter, and ensures you feel confident on drops and rough terrain. The progressive leverage ratio offers the feel of a longer travel bike, but in a more nimble 130mm package.
- Trail-Optimised Geometry: With 430mm chainstays, a 65.5° head angle, and a low bottom bracket, the Rift Zone delivers a playful yet stable ride. The long top tube ensures proper rider positioning, making it a great bike for both descending at speed and climbing technical sections.
- Clean Design and Durability: The Rift Zone features internal cable routing, ensuring a clean look and reducing noise from rattling cables. It also comes with enhanced chainstay and seat stay protectors, preserving the bike’s finish while keeping the ride quiet.
The Rift Zone’s combination of modern geometry and suspension technology makes it a solid choice for trail riders looking for an all-rounder that doesn’t sacrifice performance in either direction.
San Quentin: Aggressive Hardtail for the Modern Rider
The San Quentin series is built for the rider who wants the best of both worlds: the precision and power of a dirt jumper with the versatility of a trail hardtail. Developed in collaboration with freeride legend Matt Jones, the San Quentin bikes are designed to handle both singletrack trails and big air, making them perfect for aggressive riders who want a bike that can fly uphill as well as handle technical descents.
Key Features:
- Aggressive Geometry: With a slack head angle and a steep seat tube angle, the San Quentin offers precise handling when climbing, while providing a stable and controlled feel on descents. This unique geometry places the rider’s weight perfectly between the wheels for superior handling in corners and on technical terrain.
- Durable Aluminium Frame: The Series 2 and Series 3 aluminium frames used in the San Quentin lineup are built to last, featuring tapered head tubes, 3D-forged dropouts, and semi-internal cable routing for a sleek, clean look. The San Quentin 2 and 3 models come with Boost 148mm thru-axles, ensuring a stiff and responsive rear end for aggressive riding.
- Inspired by Dirt Jump Design: Borrowing cues from Marin’s Alcatraz dirt jump bike, the San Quentin features a massive standover, slick tube shaping, and eye-catching paint jobs. This combination of style and performance makes the San Quentin stand out in the hardtail category, offering a ride that’s as fun as it is functional.
- Freeride-Ready: The San Quentin is equipped with ISCG 05 tabs, making it easy to add a chain retention system for riders who plan to take their bike on rougher terrain or spend more time in the air.
For riders who want a hardtail that can handle jumps, descents, and everything in between, the San Quentin delivers the right blend of trail capabilities and dirt jump-inspired toughness.
Two Bikes for Every Trail Rider
Whether you’re seeking the all-around versatility of the Rift Zone or the aggressive capabilities of the San Quentin, Marin’s trail bikes offer something for every type of rider. The Rift Zone shines as a capable full-suspension bike with a focus on balance and efficiency, while the San Quentin appeals to those looking for a hardtail that’s as fun on the trail as it is in the air.
Both series are built with Marin’s attention to detail, offering premium features, progressive geometry, and durability to handle the demands of modern trail riding.
