So I’ve been researching for my first MTB and debating between the [Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3](https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/cross-country-mountain-bikes/marlin/marlin-7-gen-3/p/36967/?colorCode=tealdark_bluedark) and the [Specialized Rockhopper Elite 27.5](https://www.incycle.com/products/specialized-rockhopper-elite-27-5?variant=39448059609219). They both seem very similar, but I’m not sure which one to choose. What do you guys think?
by reemzlol
2 Comments
Which size Marlin, XS or S with 27.5″ wheels or M, ML, or L with 29″ wheels?
Or go with what looks to be a slacker geometry on the [Canyon Stoic 3](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/stoic/stoic-3/3338.html?dwvar_3338_pv_rahmenfarbe=RD) $1099.
27.5 or 29er
* 2XS-S – 27.5 wheels 2XS – S riders (up to a maximum 175 cm) get the right wheels for the frame, allowing geometry and handling to match the larger 29er sizes.
* M-XL – 29er Medium to XL frames wear 29er hoops which pair better with larger frames.
Or [Polygon](https://www.bikesonline.com/bikes/mountain/hardtail/?filters%5Bcustom_fields.wheel_size%5D%5B0%5D=27.5%20inch&filters%5Bcustom_fields.wheel_size%5D%5B1%5D=29%20inch) hard tails.
Or [Polygon dual suspension](https://www.bikesonline.com/bikes/mountain/dual-suspension/?filters%5Bcustom_fields.wheel_size%5D%5B0%5D=27.5%20inch&filters%5Bcustom_fields.wheel_size%5D%5B1%5D=29%20inch&sort%5B0%5D%5Bfield%5D=price&sort%5B0%5D%5Border%5D=asc) starts at $999 for 27.5″ or $1299 for 29″.