While some brands focus exclusively on bikes that cost more than most used cars, Marin has found recent success by producing quality builds at a price point that mere mortals can afford. Bikes such as the Pine Mountain series blend modern amenities and tasteful aesthetics with reasonable prices, and are capable on the trail. Marin's latest, the Hawk Hill, brings those same sensibilities to the full suspension trail segment. The new bike will be available later this summer. Price is $1500.

The Hawk Hill employs a similar suspension layout as Marin's premium models, the Attack Trail and Mount Vision, but utilizes a rear pivot to help keep costs down.

The Hawk Hill employs a similar suspension layout as Marin's premium models, the Attack Trail and Mount Vision
, but utilizes a rear pivot to help keep costs down (click to enlarge).​

In its previous incarnation, the Hawk Hill was an entry level hardtail. But for 2017 it's been reborn as an 120mm travel full suspension bike with 27.5" wheels. The frame uses similar suspension kinematics as Marin's higher end carbon models, but lowers the price by using a simpler suspension platform called MultiTrac. The main difference is that new system uses a rear pivot rather than relying on flexing stays.

A close up of the new seatstay mounted pivot.

A close up of the new seatstay mounted pivot (click to enlarge).​

Marin has not published a full geometry chart, but we've been told the frame has a 67.5-degree head tube angle paired with a low BB and longer reach. These numbers should create a bike that's confident on technical terrain, but can still carve corners.

The build includes a RockShox Recon Silver RL Fork with adjustable rebound and compression damping, as well as a 15mm thru axle. The rear shock is a X-Fusion 02 Pro R Air, which also offers rebound and compression ("lockout") adjustments. A dropper post does not come stock, but there are provisions for internal routing if you decide to upgrade later.

The stock 32 x 11-42 gearing should be wide enough to climb up most fire roads, but riders with steeper terrain may want to consider trying a 28T or 30T ring.

The stock 32 x 11-42 gearing should be wide enough to climb up most fire roads, but riders facing steeper terrain may want to consider a 28t or 30t ring (click to enlarge).​

Shifting duties are handled by a wide-range 1x10 Shimano Deore groupset with a clutch-equipped rear derailleur. The cranks are Marin branded but have a hollow spindle and will come stock with a 32t chainring. The Hawk Hill also comes with Marin branded wheels that have a 27mm inner width and are wrapped in Schwalbe Hans Damf 2.35" tires.

For more info, visit www.marinbikes.com.