This has become my dream bike ngl, i'm just in love with its clean lines and design!

@mammothjourneys

4 ай бұрын

Completely agree. It's absolutely lovely. Shamelessly can't deny the look of a bike is top on my criteria when buying a new one!

Yes, bought my Marin Kentfield ST2 in Pensacola, Florida. Took it home with me to Detroit. But this really is a nice commuter which bailed me out a couple of times riding over chuck holes. The reviewer above is correct in stating that a hybrid like this should encourage bicycle transit. I have a couple of other road models, albeit the Marin is credible in its own right. Save on gas and park combustible engines! Buy a Marin and dress warm for cooler weather in Michigan if your headed this way. LOL. I welcome comments, questions or your own experiences.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, glad you had a good experience with your Marin Kentfield. Happy riding in Florida and Michigan, never been to either but I hope to one day!

This is an awesome bike, real honest review 👌🏼

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Lucinda glad you appreciated the review and agree how good the bike is 👍🚴

Couple of my latest bikes are these "lady" form bikes, which I find great fun to use daily. And they look fresh to the eye, too. 26" wheels with MTB tire does great as a winter hack (but rust of steel parts), while 28" dressed Fat Frank is as supple, as this Marin, and nicely covers city distances in better conditions. All-in-all, these low frames make honest, loved bikes.

@mammothjourneys

5 ай бұрын

You are dead right. They are getting much more popular as well. Seen a few similar bikes, non-Marin, this past year or so. Good to hear others are appreciating them as well

@muneirovalibas6194

4 ай бұрын

I much prefer "step-through" designs myself and have owned 2 of these. Its just so comfortable to get on/off from.

@mammothjourneys

4 ай бұрын

@@muneirovalibas6194 it makes it so much easier for those short runs to shops and coffee stops.

@mammothjourneys

4 ай бұрын

@@muneirovalibas6194 interesting as well if a few more blokes are using these types of bikes

Good review man thanks. Yeah the Stinson/Kentfield/Larkspur look to overlap a bit. I have an all-road bike (Salsa Journeyer) for my distance, light touring, gravel grinding and a fat bike (Surly Wednesday) for trail/sand/snow/zombie apocalypse. But I'm looking at something for short runs around town e.g. grocery runs, pub-hopping, coffee shop with my wife Sunday mornings, whatever. I need something that will manage a rear rack and bags, be comfortable and upright for my 54 year old back, dependable and simple to maintain. Something like the Kentfield might be perfect. The only potential issue with this frame style is where to mount my Kryptonite U lock? A traditional diamond frame no problem. I guess in the panniers perhaps. Honestly I have agonized over this purchase as much as the bikes I spend most of my time on LOL. Thanks again for the review.

@mammothjourneys

5 ай бұрын

No worries mate glad it was helpful. Sounds like your garage is similar to ours, and the Kentfield has it's place. Love the way you described the use of your Surly! I'd be tempted with the Larkspur purely for the looks, but could be a little hipster. What abouts are you from if you don't mind me asking? Let me know what bike you end up with, whatever your decision.

Just got the regular (not ST) version, rode 9 miles first day, absolutely comfortable and great gearing. Perhaps get new grips, easily takes rack, fenders and cages for whatever you want to carry. On short rides i put a speaker (fits perfectly) in a bottle cage. Tires are great on anything not muddy. Very long wheelbase and XL size is too long for some bike racks (local bus).

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Atropineman, Good to hear you are loving the Kentfield as well. It would be a great commuter option and with all the attachments something for everyone. Just out of curiosity where do you ride? Interested to see how far and wide Marin has got when chatting with people who buy their bikes. Happy riding mate!

nice review! I just got a DSX 1 from Marin. Seems like there are a lot of similarities but the components are slightly lower tier on the Kentfield, but what a great bike if you have more every day runaround rides as opposed to more challenging bits.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Tony, glad you liked the review - thank you. I've had my eye on the DSX range - is it good fun? Yet to ride one but keen to give it a go! The Kentfield is so good for the price point, such a comfortable ride and so reliable.

@TravelsWithTony

Жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys yes. I really enjoy the DSX 1. I can ride it anywhere and the gearing lets me feel like no climb is too steep. And the aluminum frame makes it so light which also helps. Only issue I’ve had in the first 600km is a loose front axle bolt but my shop sorted that quickly.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@TravelsWithTony good to hear you've been enjoying it. There seems a trend with some of these Marin bikes that they allow you do so much on them, similar to the four corners. I saw the gearing and Frame material and did think it lender itself to easy light climbing. Have you ridden a steel frame before? Be interested to know how this aluminium frame compares. Where are you based and what's the gravel/trails like near you? 🚴👍

Thanks --very helpful. Ddi you happen to compare it to the Raleigh Redux 2. Same price point. I was about to buy that bike and came across this review.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Thomas, glad you found it helpful. The Redux is a great option for similar rides, and also looks great. Better brakes than the Kentfield but not as easy gearing. They seem both would be a decent option. Are both available now? What's your gut telling you??

I just bought this bike for a great deal, I got the step through as I will sometimes have my baby in a seat on the rear rack. I do a lot of rides around 30-60km in the city for commuting to work, and also on gravel trails. I was reading the cons of the step through and people mentioned the frame bending when going up hill, is this a real concern I should have? Personally so far I have found the bike quite stable (similar to my old Trek FX1 (Non step Through))

@mammothjourneys

Ай бұрын

I've never experienced this with this bike. We sporadically have a trailer on the back and not noticed any bend with the frame, and would have gone up some hills then as well. How long have you had the bike? I guess it makes sense from an engineering perspective that it would be less rigid, but for the type of riding it's designed to do I would be surprised it would be a real risk - and for the riding you have mentioned you are doing. Have you noticed anything yet?

Thanks for the review! Do you know what's the weight of this bike?

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

I believe it's 45 lb or 20 kg. Hope that helps, happy riding mate 👍

What questions do you have that I didn't answer in this video? Let me know below and I will get back to you. Looking for the Ultimate Explorer? If so you'll love our review on the Nicasio+ as the Ultimate Explorer 👉kzread.info/dash/bejne/kaaqsKSohbDJitI.html

@thomasbell6834

Жыл бұрын

Ddi you happen to compare it to the Raleigh Redux 2. Same price point. I was about to buy that bike and came across this review.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@thomasbell6834, glad you found it helpful. The Redux is a great option for similar rides, and also looks great. Better brakes than the Kentfield but not as easy gearing. They seem both would be a decent option. Are both available now? What's your gut telling you??

@thomasbell6834

Жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys I am going with the Marin. Both are 400 lightly used. The Marin has better pedals, softer seat, and it seems the fork might be smoother. Plus I prefer silver to lime green. Lotta used bikes from Covid that never got ridden o and are now for sale, at great value. Sounds like the Marin has better gears so thanks. Super helpful.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@thomasbell6834 you're the second person picking up a decent second hand Marin. That's ace to hear. I was going to mention the saddle but it's so personal that it may not be relevant to you. Glad you made a choice mate and happy riding, hope you have some good fun on it 💪

I'm looking at the Stinson at the moment, but this one could work as well. I was wondering if I could add a seat for a toddler on these bikes?

@mammothjourneys

2 жыл бұрын

It would depend on the set up of the toddler carrier but I can't see it being an issue. It would have scope for the rear seat post mounted one, and the WeeRide across the "top tube", and anything handlebar mounted. Obviously wouldn't do the shotgun type as no top tube. How old is your little one?

@StefanSu91

2 жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys He's 7 months old. Also wondering what the 'suggested' minimum age is for this!

@mammothjourneys

2 жыл бұрын

@@StefanSu91 if they can't react in sitting they are sort of like a sack of potatoes slumped in the chair. 9 months seems to be the magic number but depends on their development. The front option allows you to have a little more control of them and know what they are doing compared to the rear options. It's awkward to ride but you don't tend to go fast or far anyways. The WeeRide is great value for money but the Thule Yepp Nexxt Mini is more practical. Both would fit on this bike, if your budget will stretch, when the kid is ready the Thule one is a great option. Happy riding mate!

@StefanSu91

2 жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys Awesome, thank you. Was actually looking at the Yepp Nexxt Mini! Have a good one!

Hello, what do you think about bickepacking trip with this bike, 1000km +. Thank you

@mammothjourneys

9 ай бұрын

It wouldn't be my first choice. Obviously it would complete it, but would just a little longer than other bikes as average speed would be lower. Also if you got the step through frame you wouldn't be able to put a frame bag on. Although a positive for using it, is that it would be very comfortable! Where are you thinking of going?

spot on

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed the video.

With a few minor adjustments to the current components, will this bike be able to do long distance bike touring? (such as around 1300+ miles)?

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Tracey, Good question. This has made me think and to be honest minimal adjustments would be needed. A question how efficient and fast you would want to go would determine how much you do, and how you carry your kit. Most likely a change in tyres would help you be more efficient but other than that not sure what else initially. The gearing would be appropriate for hills and even with carrying kit, although I haven't put this test. There are points on the frame to attach pannier set up front and back. What other changes would you be looking at? Where you thinking of touring? Sounds interesting!

@StarEssences

Жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys The minor component changes I would do are the following: 1) install a suspension seatpost such as a Suntour NCX 2) install a front crankset that would allow the fitting of also a chainguard and a front chainring of a 36t 3) of course front and rear racks to carry panniers 4) Install ergo grips (for grip and hand comfort) 5) Maybe install a 180mm front rotor and caliper for the front brake and as for tires, I would install 45mm width in size and fenders. And then maybe the handlebars; to be more of touring handlebars and if the length of them that is currently on bike is too short in width, a wider lengthed handlebar. Marin should do the kentfield with an IGH set up and or maybe even with a CDX drivetrain. BikeTouring is not a race so as for speed, this bike will be no problem for that. I love this bike when I saw the Marin's for this year, I kept gravitating to this particular one. :)

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@StarEssences Nice ideas. Suspension seat post and ergo grips make sense. I wouldn't think the chain guard necessary for 1x on the front and if you are thinking of adapting the front crainring set up with adding another would it may be better to think of another bike where you have to do less work. Is the change in front rotor to deal with the potentially heavier load? Would you be keeping on tarmc for the touring? Something like the Schwalbe marathon plus could work. We love this bike and it is super comfortable so as long as you aren't looking for speed it would work. Perhaps try the smaller comfort upgrades first, and then if need to commit to the more expensive changes you mentioned on point 2 and 5? Where are you thinking of going? This is making me very jealous!

@StarEssences

Жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys Nevada has five states that surround it and they all offer beautiful landscapes and campsites to visit. A bigger front rotor will offer more reliable braking and heat dispersement from braking with a load on bike. Front Suspension seatpost and ergo grips offer more comfort while riding. And I prefer to ride on pavement, or hard packed dirt trails which I know the kentfield will be able to handle. The Chainguard will prevent the chain from slipping off. (extra reassurance). I plan on riding on pavement and or hard packed dirt trails which I know the Kentfield will be able to deal with. Regardless, when I see new bicycles and from my own experience from years of riding, I know what the better functioning and reliabile components are and make the necessary adjustments in whatever bike I get or have. Bike Touring ='s cost effective travel and compared to car, etc. The bike rider can stop and smell the roses much more so than those who travel by other means of transportation.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@StarEssences I love this! I agree with it all. Cycle touring is the best way to see a country and experience everything. It's the perfect balance as you can cover a decent amount of ground compared to walking, but slow enough to appreciate the small details compared to driving and motorcycles. And you have a massive feeling of self fulfilment of getting around and to your end point under your own steam. I love it. Cycling around Nevada and the neighbouring states sounds amazing. Please send me photos to make me jealous of your adventure!

Hey what’s the biggest difference between Kentfield and Stinson? I’m looking for a daily commute to work with an upright position and not sure which one to go with..

@mammothjourneys

2 жыл бұрын

The differences are subtle. One extra big ring on the Kentfield. Narrower handlebars on the Stinson with more relaxed geometry and a lower bottom bracket - easier to touch the ground. Would the commute be on tarmac? The stock tyres with the Kentfield are more suited to that as they have a smooth middle section, compared to the Stinsons which is wider (heavier) and more designed for paths.

@brooklyn2767

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Tough decision, as mostly it’d be city roads, I guess both bikes are wuite similar and maybe I wouldn’t notice much of a difference, just read Stinson is for comfort, but as you say the tires are more suitable for city road on Kentfield… I’ll roll the dice I guess :)

@mammothjourneys

2 жыл бұрын

@@brooklyn2767 ha ha perhaps the best option! My preference would be the Kentfield due to the higher gearing and stock tyres. It will make it easier when riding. But as you said both are comfortable and you probably wouldn't notice much difference when riding, the Stinson frame does look smarter, I do like it. Best of luck and happy riding!

@brooklyn2767

2 жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys By the way, could you compare these two to Larkspur 1? As it's the only one I had a chance to try out and liked, but want to go with a cheaper version like Kentfield or Stinson

@mammothjourneys

2 жыл бұрын

@@brooklyn2767 The Larkspur has the same gearing as the Kentfield but it will be heavier due to the steel frame. However steel does offer a smoother ride. The brakes are also hydraulic, which are way better than the mechanical on both other models. The tyres again are large like the Stinson, which will add weight to it and again it's designed for more paths than tarmac - but equally will be fine with it. The geometry is similar to the Kentfield - but all will be very very similar! I've never ridden the Larkspur but I do love the look, I have a soft spot for steel and hydraulic brakes are awesome. Will you need to move it around much? As in lifting it in/out of storage? If not, the weight probably won't be an issue and I wouldn't worry about it at all. Were you looking at the Kentfield or Stinson 1 or 2?

I'm actually thinking about getting this bike I do long distance and short distance if the bike is comfortable and easy to pedal I think it would be perfect for where I live it's all flat no hills do you think this bike will be a good budget bike for me

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Hi Steve, thanks for the question here. How long would your rides be and on what type of surfaces would these rides be on? It is definitely comfortable so a tick for that box.

@stevegelman7838

Жыл бұрын

@@mammothjourneys good morning and thank you for responding so quickly where I live it's all flat no hills and I only ride on paved surfaces mostly bike Lanes and sidewalks I do about 60 to 70 miles a day I am definitely not looking for a drop bar I'm looking for comfort in a bike that has a good cruising speed with very little effort like a Trek FX plus I like the fact that this bike is a 1x in front, question I have for you is would this bicycle be able to handle this type of riding everyday and thank you for your help

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

@@stevegelman7838 no problem at all, happy to help. This bike will work well for your riding preference. I'm the same as you, the 1x drivetrain got my attention, and it's ace. You reference the Trek FX plus and just wanted to mention this bike isn't electrical, although I think you are referring to the 1x drivetrain. Happy riding Steve and hope you enjoy the bike mate.

More entry level and commuter bikes should be a 1x.

@mammothjourneys

Жыл бұрын

Yeah it certainly has its benefits for sure. Especially when the benefit of smaller incremental gear changes is less of a concern, but a lighter, cheaper and easier bike to maintain would outweigh it. I've certainly been converted to it.