Marin Alpine Trail E2: A Review with a Twist

we’re diving into the thrilling world of the Marin Alpine Trail E2. This all-mountain electric bike is not just any ride—it’s a mullet-style powerhouse ready to take on the trails with style and might. Grab your helmets as we explore the features, innovations, and quirks of this two-wheeled marvel.

Battery Bonanza: Correction and Apology

Our adventure begins with a little mea culpa. Initially, it seemed like tools were required to remove the Marin Alpine Trail E2’s battery. Not so! A simple four-millimeter Allen key unlocks the magic, allowing the battery to be removed and charged off the bike. My thanks go out to the astute viewers who corrected this oversight. Your feedback keeps the wheels of truth spinning!

Thrills and Spills: Wheel and Suspension Details

Let’s talk wheels! This bike features a mullet setup—29 inches up front and a playful 27.5 at the back. With a generous 160mm of travel in the front and 150mm in the rear, the Marin Alpine Trail E2 is like a mountain goat with suspension: nimble, agile, and ready to conquer any terrain. Thanks to its progressive leverage ratio, the bike dynamically absorbs bumps, big or small, without breaking a sweat.

The Brake Dance: Hydraulic Power

Safety first, right? Marin hasn’t skimped on the brakes. This beauty is equipped with Shimano hydraulic SLX brakes, boasting 203mm rotors for superb stopping power. The slacker head tube angle absorbs hits like a champ, making downhill rides feel smooth and controlled. And let’s not forget those rubber bumpers for oversteer protection—because nothing ruins a ride like unintended frame damage!

Tech Specs: The Foxy Fork and More

Moving on to the fork—a Fox 38 air fork with burly 38mm stanchions. These are thicker than your average trail bike forks, providing robustness and precision when tackling rugged trails. High-speed and low-speed compression adjustments ensure a customized ride, whether you’re blazing a trail or cruising through the woods. And yes, there’s a cute little mudguard on the fork to keep your face free from dirt sprays.

The Guts: Gears and Motor

The drivetrain features a 38-tooth narrow-wide chainring, complemented by Shimano Deore XT 12-speed shifting. With a wide gear ratio of 10-51, the Marin Alpine Trail E2 delivers versatility for climbing and descending. The Shimano EP8 mid-drive motor churns out an impressive 85Nm of torque, promising a dynamic and natural riding experience. It adjusts pedal cadence, speed, and torque to ensure a seamless transition between pedaling and motor assistance.

The Art of Battery Management

The battery is neatly integrated into the downtube, providing a sleek look. It’s not just about aesthetics; the 36V, 630Wh capacity means you’re in for a long ride before needing a recharge. When it comes to removing and charging the battery, the Marin team has demonstrated how effortlessly it’s done—just ensure you have your four-millimeter Allen key at the ready.

Rider Comfort: Design and Features

Marin has designed the frame with a sloped top tube for lower standover height, ensuring rider comfort and control. The bike also includes a dropper seat post for a more dynamic riding experience, allowing you to adjust your seating position on the fly.

Display Dynamics: What You See is What You Get

The bike features a small, intuitive display that provides all necessary data at a glance—current speed, trip distance, and more. However, toggling between modes might require a bit of dexterity as some buttons are out of easy reach when gripping the handlebars.

Final Thoughts

The Marin Alpine Trail E2 is not just a bike; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. It’s robust yet agile, packed with high-quality components that make it a great choice for mountain biking enthusiasts. With Marin’s legacy in mountain biking innovation and a solid warranty backing up this bike, it’s ready to hit the trails with gusto.

Ride safe, have fun, and let the Marin Alpine Trail E2 take you on a thrilling ride!

Marin Alpine Trail E2 Specifications

  1. Range: Estimated up to 60 miles per charge depending on riding conditions and mode.
  2. Top Speed: Approximately 20 mph (32 km/h) with motor assistance.
  3. Motor Size: Shimano EP8, 85Nm of torque.
  4. Battery Size: 36V, 630Wh.
  5. Frame: Aluminum, designed for durability and comfort with a sloped top tube.
  6. Warranty: 1-year comprehensive warranty; 5 years on the frame.
  7. Safety Certified: CE certified.
  8. Digital Display: Small LCD showing speed, distance, and battery level.

Full Specifications

  • Miles Per Charge: Up to 60 miles (depending on conditions)
  • Max Speed: 20 mph (motor-assisted)
  • Max Rider Weight: Approximately 300 lbs
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX4 (resistant to splashes from any direction)
  • Motor Size: Shimano EP8, 85Nm
  • Battery Size: 36V, 630Wh
  • Tire Size: Front: 29″ x 2.5″, Rear: 27.5″ x 2.8″
  • Product Weight: Approximately 57 lbs
  • Dimensions: Varies by frame size (Medium, Large, X-Large)
  • Warranty Length: 1-year comprehensive; 5-year frame warranty
  • Frame Material: Aluminum
  • Color(s): Available in a single color option
  • Inner Tubes: Standard, compatible with tire sizes
  • Brakes: Shimano hydraulic SLX with 203mm rotors
  • Charge Time: Approximately 5-6 hours for a full charge
  • Suspension: Front: Fox 38, 160mm travel; Rear: 150mm travel
  • Display: Small LCD display with assist level, speed, and range indicators
  • Headlight: Optional accessory
  • Charger: 1.8A charger included