The Marin description is a fair summary;

The Muirwoods 29er is our rough and tumble commute machine. Offering the toughness of a mountain bike-based cromoly frame and fork with an updated geometry and durable component selection, this bike is designed for riders wanting some fun on their commute. From jumping curbs and train tracks to adventuring the dirt roads on the outskirts of town, the Muirwoods 29er can take it all. A 27-speed Shimano Altus and Alivio drivetrain provides the perfect gear regardless of terrain while Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide dependable braking performance regardless of weather conditions. Night time visibility is taken into account with highly reflective 3M graphics on the frame and tires, while integrated rack and fender mounts allow you to build up the bike to best suit your needs.

29er wheels and a steel frame negates the need for suspension. I have taken my 26" Muirwoods on single track routes on the South Downs without much concern (Marathon XR tires). It of course isn't designed for off roading - but the geometry and the frame certainly make it a much more comfortable bike than most over the rough stuff.

I also like the more heads up riding position (vs the heads down of a racing bike for example) - so if you are just commuting, this would be ideal.

Also, as mentioned earlier, Muirwoods are v.highly regarded as touring bikes - especially when going out onto dirt/gravel tracks. Here's a picture plucked from Google Images of one on the Bolivian Altoplano



In short, if you are after a relaxed and enjoyable ride - with the capability to do MUCH more, then you can't go wrong with the Muirwoods. It's a cracking bike.

Yeah said they forgot to post it and it would be with me in 10 days had to send them my mobile number on Friday for their couriers will see what happens tomorrow!!!

​yeah that's rubbish they fit on the bike perfect Evans are incorrect in this one fella.

Yep, stickers are wrong - I ordered M frame and it was labeled as S but measurements show it's M.

Have you given them a call? They were v.quick and helpful to issue my refund...so I'm sure they'll be quick to resolve your issue.

I ordered mine on the 5th of July still waiting for it to be delivered!!!

I've done the thing in the video a few days ago and it seemed to reduce the rubbing. It's still there but I can barely notice it anymore and it doesn't bother me.

I think it'll get better as the pads wear down a bit.

Anything else out there similar quality/price in a large size??

I swear most cyclists are tall, the large sizes always sell out first.

Just tested mine and it has the same problem with the rear brake rubbing once per turn. Did you manage to resolve this? Or maybe it fixed itself after bedding in?

It looks like it could be pretty easy to adjust, as long as the rotor itself is not bent:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-T5a6r6RNg

Nah. Nothing easier to maintain than rim brakes! I found with my old Shimano XT hydros that the discs would warp after hard/prolonged braking. They would then have an annoying rub.

If a rim brake rubs, it's easy as anything to sort - or if necessary, to fully disengage. You can also use any type/brand of pad...rather than having to scout around for the specific variant for the type of disc brakes being used.

This Muirwood is still a great bike - but I personally stuck with my 06 model in part because of the rim brakes.

Thanks. I finally took the plunge and went for the Marin. More than a week after I posted the deal.

​I think disk brakes are a must - all round easier to maintain

Just bought the mudguards and asked Evans to fit them. Went back an hour later, and they weren't fitted. Apparently they can't be fitted to this particular bike, something to do with the bolting point at the back not lining up with the frame.

Think I'll go to another shop and get a 2nd opinion.

Yeah all the reviews everywhere ive looked say they are the only ones to go for in the community and i concur they look amazing and great quality.

Are you happy with the mudguards? Looking at getting those fitted next.

Cheers so this L with an M sticker is not just me then im 5.11" and the frame measures 19" and fits great just looking into locks/lights now.

I take it you don't live near to a Rutland Cycling shop? If you do live near one, remember that they give a free 6 week bike check...

Sorry mate been busy and haven't had a chance to go on a long ride, but so far so good. Really smart looking bike and seems to be well built. I've ridden for about 30 minutes and found the bike handled smoothly and gears responsive.

I also ordered the 19" frame and it has a M sticker on the frame. I'm 6" and it fits fine (I did heighten the handlebars a bit by moving the spacers).

Only slight issue is the disc brakes seem to brush against the pads a little bit once per revolution. I don't think its a major problem but I'm going to get a local shop to have a look. They might just need slight adjustment or bedding in.

Overall for the price paid I'm very happy. How are you finding it?

This thread surprises me not a Single person come back to comment anything about the bike they bought, incredible.

They probably stuck on the wrong sticker. The correct sticker for the 19" (483mm seatube length) bike is L.

20" is XL, and 22" is XXL

http://www.marinbikes.com/gb/bikes/description/2016-muirwoods-29

UPDATE: well i went and picked up my Large 19" bike today arrived mudguards fitted very nice looked on the frame running under the seat and a big M sticker indicating Medium was on it he checked his computer and its the only one they had in that store period and he showed me it was Large 19" so he got the tape measure out & measured it and it was clearly 19" as the next one down is 17" it then jogged my memory that in the past few days reading up about this bike id come across at least two peoples comments relating to what id just experienced very ODD if you ask me.
However the service is first rate for me anyhow he then chucked in for FREE a inner tube, a puncture repair kit, some all purpose oil and as i was interested in a cycle computer he the sold me this beauty Specialized The Works Kit down to £15 from £79.99 https://www.evanscycles.com/specialized-the-works-saddle-bag-kit-EV180865 which includes a wireless computer.

Wouldn't mind knowing about other peoples frame experiences now though.

I bought it second hand in 2012...for....£115 - including 2x Ortlieb Panniers and a Cateye speedo :smiley:.

As for differences since 2011. The extra bottle holder is new, the rear triangle has also changed over time. Tires have changed from Continentals to Schwalbe. The saddle is now a Marin branded one rather than WTB. Chainset has changed from Deore to Alivio at the back...and brakes have improved from ropey Hayes mechanical discs to Tektro hydraulics. Oh, and the fork is now more bladed rather than tubular.

How much that cost back in 06 ? also i was kinda after the differences between the past 5 years just to see whats changed TBF.

The differences between the 2006 and 2016 model;

- 2016 has a bladed fork with rack points on both the front and back of the dropout (makes it easy to fit a rear rack to the front).
- 2016 model has a water bottle holder on the underside of the frame (third bottle point - v.useful if you plan to make a bikepacking rig)
- 2006 model has a nicer shaped frame tube, and a more robust looking rear triangle
- 2006 model has a Deore rear mech...which in my brief test of the 2016 model at their Fineshades store performs better than the Alivio Shadow mech on the new model.
- 2006 model doesn't have disc brake mounts

The 2016 model is v.nice, but on balance, the 2006 model suits my needs better (26" wheels, old school brakes and the more robust rear triangle seem better suited to developing world cycle tours). For that reason, I decided to stick with my 20" 2006 model. If I didn't already own that bike, I'd definitely have gone through with the order. It's a cracking bike - especially for UK use

Yeah i checked when i called up today as im collecting the bike tomorrow the last 19" frame they have as im 5.11" the guy quickly told me seeing as he works/lives in Cambridge the cycle Capital of this country that the amount of wheel-less bikes he sees is incredible mostly down to 'Quick Release' yeah quick release for an addict perfect, me ill take the Tamper Proof system myself, Actually out of curiosity's sake i wouldn't mind knowing what differences were made between the years revisions of this bike say for the past 5 years to see whats changed etc

Yep, you really can't go wrong with the Muirwoods when it comes to comfortable cycling over long distances. Just upgrade the components as they wear out - the frame is top notch to begin with

These are fairly tamper proof. They can only be released using a dedicated tool (same for the seatpost)

*Edit - looks like Marin have stopped using the tamper proof axles. A shame, as they were a neat feature on my 2006 version.

I'm between the 19" and 20" - not really sure how much of a difference that would have made though, but, as always, my procrastination has saved me a few bob.. OS in both sizes now.. :disappointed:

Bit the bullet and bought one, really excited as this is my first venture into the cycling world. The bike seems perfect for what I want, ie commuting and comfort over touring distances etc. General consensus seems to be the set up of it is perfectly matched for this type of cycling, can't wait!

Also upon my research it seems it widely regarded that quick release wheels are Not needed for almost everyone and only suit thieves so seeing as this bike comes with both front and back quick release wheels ive asked my local store to replace them with tamper proof system only costs £10 for both wheels.

Nope, not joking. I can't see anything in the returns info that says these bikes cannot be returned if they are not wanted. I'm pretty sure it would also break DSR regulations to have a return refused...especially for something where correct sizing is important.

Also, I'm not sure why it is so difficult to work out the correct frame size. Measure your inside leg, measure your height...then use the Marin sizing chart...

That would mean building 2 and dismantling 1 and then their returns state that it has to be unused.. I don't get how that is possible if you're trying to test a bike out..

PS - I know you're joking.. :wink:

You should have ordered two, then returned the one you didn't like for a tenner :wink:

Only the 20" left now.. :confused: If I was sure what size to get I would have got this..

They are the same mudguards that came stock on my 2006 Muirwoods (26" variant)! Superb mudguards...and look v.nice too.

SKS CHROMOPLASTICS MUDGUARD http://www.rutlandcycling.com/178652/products/sks-chromoplastics-mudguard-set---700x45c---black.aspx literally spent around 2 hours looking into it and its fairly obvious right of the bat that sites creating lists and forums the community rate these as the best goto mudguard out there and as i mentioned can seriously be a pain in the rear end to fit hence and luckily they'll be on the bike when i pick that up soon.

Which mudguards did you go for?

Cool ok, thanks for the advise. The shop said I shouldn't have any problems so I've ordered the 19".

If it's no good I'll just have to pay £20 to get it exchanged.

​The general rule of thumb is to order the smaller size if both sizes are suitable for your height / instep. This is because it is easy to make a smaller bike bigger but not so easy to make a big bike smaller.

My height is 6ft without shoes, and inside leg 33" (book method).

Marin size chart is recommending both the 19" or 20.5" for my height as I'm right in the middle. Would it better to order a slightly smaller or larger frame? Unfortunately I don't live close enough to a store to try them out.

Is the HAVE6 code still working? Just tried and the site wouldn't accept it.

Reserved mine over the phone today as the nearest store to me is 21 miles away apparently having not bought a bike for decades that if you have it delivered you'll have to assemble it yourself and make sure the gears and all other stuff are running correctly but if you have it delivered to store or buy instore they'll essentially do a mini service on it for you for free by one of their mechanics and assemble/tune/oiled/greased everything to perfection also i like that anything else which for me was mudguards if bought at time the same time they will fit for free which upon looking into mudguards can be time consuming and difficult to fit and believe me when i say the Only thing i remember about my last time i owned a mountain bike was that in any even slightly bad wet weather without mudguards you will get caked all down your back loads of crap aswell as the bike itself so a must have in my opinion.

Went for it. Thank you!

I'm 6'1 and apparently, according to the trusty book method, an inside leg of 34". I think if I plop for this, it'll be the 20". Inside leg is not your trouser leg for bikes. I learned that today!

19" (large) frame for my size of height 6ft, inside leg 32" (ish), right?

Thanks, I've had my Muirwoods since 2006 and has served me & after 10 years it needed some larger work on the bike so have been looking at an upgrade.

Very nearly went with Edinburgh Coop deal of £425 a few months back but held off to this kind of price point. Looking forward to trying the 29'er out as I'm sure the ride will be completely different to my current trusty steed.

Or if you're a little overweight - lose a couple of kg :smiley:.

As I ride partly for fitness, I don't mind a bit of extra weight.

Absolutely.

Is this bike no good for 1-2 hour rides with some big hills then? Or hilly cities like Bristol?

Got for a light (as in weight) model. Made a massive difference to me when going from a heavier bike.

Thanks OP; I just went in for the 22" one too (hopefully not out of stock). Replacing a Charge Grater 2 (29" wheels, mechanical disc brakes) that was on here about 18 months ago. The Charge Grater is still going fine (one flat and 2 spokes replaced is all so far) but this was too tempting to resist.

Got a muirwoods, frame has a lovely feel to it, rigid but comfortable. Nice Bikes.

I've been running my Marin hybrid since 2003. This isn't an upgrade but it looks like a great bike for the money.
I had to replace the wheels quite quickly and all the perishables over time but its still an eye turning and awesome bike.

Have gone for the 22" option on this bike (last one in stock I think). Couldn't resist the price...or the upgrade to 29er wheels. Will be nice to have a frame suited to my size (6'3", 35" inside leg)....rather than one that is a touch too small.

Marin also offer lifetime warranties on their frames and forks. The HAVE6 £6 discount, free delivery, and the potential 3% from TopCashBack were the cherries on top :smiley:

27. All the specs are listed on the site.

Nice setup for a reasonable price. Would have preferred higher gearing - I've got a 50/11 high gear on my fairly similar hybrid(s) and do make use of that. The 34/34 low gear has got me up some pretty steep stuff while loaded, so 26/36 lower than most will use probably.

Oh dear, I'm in so far over my head.. I've not had a bike since I had a BMX back in my early teens - I'm now mid 30's..

I want a bike to zip about in on a good day and I do have a couple of friends who are keener, so could maybe go small tours - mainly on roads though, not so much off-road.

This looks more like a Mountain Bike than the other Hybrid/Tourers I've seen, so I'm still on the fence, but it does look nice. Thinking the 19" might be best for me. Thanks for all the responses guys.

Unless its changed,Marins always had a long top tube leading to a fairly stretched riding position.
I liked it but any people weren't as comfy with it.
Worth comparing the measurements to your present bike(s) if you have any.

Got me excited there for a moment - and website even said "international delivery starting as little as £4.99".

Turns out delivery to Ireland is £44.

Last weeks vote was on Brexit, not Irexit. We are still next door, Mr. Rutland.

Bikes got expensive, I was in Evans the other day looking for a bike for a 3 year old and they showed me their in-house one for £180!!!!!

Almost certainly a 20" frame with 26" wheels (my bike looks the same)

You won't find better for the money. It's a v.discreet bike - with no flashy decals, and a seemingly unflashy frame (making it a fairly unattractive bike for thieves).
The good things though are that it has fully brazed rack mounts on both the front and rear. The steel frame takes some of the bite out of poor roads (where aluminium feels horribly rigid)...and in the very unlikely event you have a frame failure, steel can be rewelded with ease. It's why 1990's mountain bikes are so often used for touring (some of the v.best Reynolds/Tange steel frames were made in that era, before they went for the cheaper aluminium option).

With regards the relatively average components - just upgrade it as it wears out (my Muirwoods is now on a fully Deore drivetrain....which has been upgraded gradually over the years)

One reason to pause for thought; if you have ambitions to head to S.America or Africa on a tour, then 29er wheels are not the best option (low availability of spares). With that said, if you had a wheel failure, you could get around the problem temporarily by using a 26" disk brake wheel until such time as you get a hold of a 29er.

tempted to buy this bike i commute on my 29r cube mountain bike suspension forks which dont have eyelets on front i would like full mudguards on my bike and option to put racks on front and this bike looks perfect for my needs.

would there be any issues putting my 10 speed deore groupset on this and brakes? or would i be better leaving it as is and upgrade later

nice bike

Hi which bike is this on the picture and frame size thank you

I purchased an XL Marin Lombard elite I am six two and have 34 inside leg and think if I had my choice again I would possibly take the large

It's a long-established brand: I recently repaired a couple of 1990s Marin Muirwoods. Back then they were steel 26" mountain bikes with front suspension. They ride brilliantly, and obviously last a long time! :wink:

I'm a Specialized fan but that's a VERY basic spec bike.

I would get the large 19 inch, looking at the geometry and being the same size as you

I'm about 6ft and 32 inside leg - their sizing guide states I should be the XL.. Anyone else have pointers on this?

Very close to biting on this - mainly due to 'Wentoabetterplace's" mention of its touring abilities as well.. I've been wanting a Hybrid that can tour well for a long time. Is this the one? :confused:

How many gears does if have?

Thanks for the advice everyone. Still torn between them both though :smiley:

Can anyone advise between this and Specialized Sirrus hybrid currently on sale at Evans from 399 to £299. Appreciate they are slightly different bikes and the Marin has disc brakes but wondering if there is anything else to distinguish them. thanks. https://www.evanscycles.com/specialized-sirrus-2016-hybrid-bike-EV244808

Can someone explain the exact uses this thing is suited for eg a 15miles fair paced ride through towns/villages etc

Better ride, and a cracking frame on the Muirwood. Completely upgradeable. I wouldn't consider the Specialized, lighter yes but the Muirwood is a solid bike, perfect for British roads and streets. Unless you live up a 15%+ gradient, I'd not get the Specialized. The Muirwood isn't that heavy really either, considering the Cycling Weekly budget road bike of the year (under £1000) is 11.5kg in 58cm frame.

I have the older version of this bike without the disc brakes. Its a good bike for the money and cost a small fortune a few years ago. worth the £300

Looks great. Oh, how I was excited, looking forward to summer, get out and cycle in the sunshine...should've known not to book holidays when Wimbledon was on - rain!

Though I was more excited to see the 2016 CANNONDALE HABIT CARBON SE beside the bike for £239 ..... another dream destroyed :disappointed:

Hot :smiley:

Great deal, thanks for posting it.

£6 off with voucher HAVE6

Guys ive i know is completely different but ive been offered a Specialized Tarmac sl2 2011 from a guy local to me for £300 its been checked out and is in good condition is this worth it ?

Muirwoods are pretty highly regarded in the cycle touring community as a superb budget tourer. Great geometry, supple steel frame, and reliable (if unspectacular) components.

Definitely worth the money at this price!

(I have the 26" version from 2007 which has performed superbly. Lovely frame!)

Can't advise as to which one you should buy, because as you pointed out yourself - they're different types of bike. In fact they're very different.
I'd say, Marin is a much better value bike:
- disc brakes - how can you not want them commuting in the UK?
- better drivetrain (9 speed cassette)
- more solid build (steel frame)
- far more stylish in my opinion
- MTB geometry - upright riding position
For a commuter bike it's a no-brainer.

Specialised Sirrus will be noticeably lighter as it's aluminium framed and doesn't have disc brakes. If you want a more sporty hybrid, go for the Spec.

This actually looks like a pretty decent "out of the box" commuter/light off-road bike. There's nothing on it that's outstanding and I'd agree the original RRP is rather too high, on paper it's a fairly solid spec though. Even as far as some relatively decent tyres (puncture resistance, if you aren't worried about weight is one of the first things I'd bother to "fix", there's a good... £40 on new tyres saved, it's a small thing but it seems a really well rounded setup without serious weaknesses).

This is a very good bike for the money. Not worth the RRP. But for £300 it's well worth it.
I've got a 2010 version of this. Still going strong with most original components.
It is quite heavy. But gives a very comfy ride. And the stealthy black look has a lot of appeal.