I tried the DS2 and the DS3. In my opinion, The DS2 is a very solid bike but still feels rough around the edges with the gear changes. The DS2 feels like a Mid quality bike. The DS3 Feels like a solid good quality bike with not defects or shortfalls in it. I got a DS3 and recommend the extra cash in order to have something that you can feel completely good about.
Your explanation on the difference between the bikes are crystal clear. Very much informative. I will buy the DS3 based on your video. Keep up the good work!
I own a Trek FX 1, which shares few components with Trek DS 1. I would like to point out few issues concerning the components: A. The Bottom bracket of the lower-end DS is probably VP (68mm, 121.5mm ) threaded square tapered bracket. It is of lower quality, albeit cheap, than the equivalent Shimano bottom bracket and calls for relatively frequent replacements. Please note that 121.5mm bottom bracket is not manufactured by Shimano, so replacing by a Shimano bottom bracket would result in slight change of the chain line. B. Trying to get a cheap replacement stem (for fitting purposes) for a 25.4mm flat handlebar (DS-1/2) is a pain. BTW, the original 2 bolt stem on DS-1 is heavier than regular 4 bolt construction. C. A 7 speed freewheel (DS-1) may cause a breakage of the rear axle. D. The Z-series (DS-1/2) as opposed to the X-series (DS-3/4) chains by KMC tend to quickly wear down and degrade other drive-train components. My reservations are based on the maintenance I perform on two Trek FX 1 bikes bought in 2016 and 2017: A. Two Bottom bracket replacements. One for each bike. B. Two stem replacements. One for each bike. C. Two axles replacements. One for each bike. D. Chains, freewheels and a single crank-set. Conclusion: For commuting purposes, I would avoid DS-1.
Great comparison and review. I picked up my DS4 last week and have been putting dozens of miles on it every day since. I’m loving it! I’m glad I spent the extra money for the 4. Plus it looks sexy to me lol. I might install a dropper and maybe go tubeless eventually with the way I ride since I’ve already gotten a flat smashing around local streets and trails. I recommend the DS4 to anyone thinking about getting a bike for fitness and fun. I would of course not use it for anything too technical although it might be able to take the extra beating.
Hi Talal, thank you so much for all your Trek spec and line-up comparison videos. These have massively helped me narrow my choice. They helped me understand the hardware differences (Deore vs lower spec) and also helped me decide to go DS instead of Marlin or X-cal. Armed with that info I only needed to test ride 2 or 3 bikes at my bike store, not 10 different models... which they certainly preferred! Just waiting for the right size frames to come in and then will choose between a DS3 or DS4. Thanks again!
Got my DS4 a few days ago, and have been doing some steep climbs on this. Here is my take: For downhill and normal roads this bike does very very well. Very good speeds. However for climbing gradients, DS4 SUCKS big time. It's a big big disappointment when it comes to climbing. My analysis is this probably due to the gears which are spaced at 3 tooth intervals. My suggestion: If you need a dual sport, then save your money and go for the 2x9 Dual Sport 3 version instead.
@@johnathankim6721 Hey! Mostly road and paved trails. But have used it on gravel occasionally. It performs beautifully on both. I use it mainly for cardio. It’s a bit heavy, but it will give you an awesome workout! Love it,
@@mitchm.4959 yeah that’s exactly what I want it for. To be able to do cardio without running cause I have bad knees and also being able to take in some sights!
@@johnathankim6721 Hey Johnathan. It’s an awesome bike for working out. And very sturdy and able. I love mine and ride it about 24 miles every other day. You’ll probably have to order one at your local bike shop. I waited 2.5 months for mine due to Covid. But I have a feeling the wait may not be that long now. It’s possible they have a few in stock too. But don’t be shocked if you have to wait. Good luck, hope you don’t have to wait!
Thank for your video, i was not decided on which bike worth the money and I didi after watching your well done research... I bought DS3 and found it worth the money, so good bike by all mean. thanks again
Extremely excellent video, I hope everybody learns from yours. This was extremely helpful in my decision and I am going to subscribe to your channel for other videos.
Thank you!! Unfortunately the DS 4 is pretty rare these days as it’s a completely new bike, so we haven’t seen any around yet :( but I’ll definitely make a video on one in person if we do!
great job! I have the DS4 and went tubeless this spring. And reduced width from 40mm to 35mm. I feel the ride is less jaring and handling is more confident especially around sharp turns.
Have you climbed any steep hills on your bike ? If so how was it. I’m looking for a fast bike, for the rail trails. I had a Cannondale Quick CX4,was a decent bike,just looking for an upgrade ,appreciate any feedback thank u!
Great channel. I ended up purchasing a Giant Roam 2 instead of the Trek Dual Sport because of the price and components. You should do a comparison of the Roams and Dual Sports.
@@bambam6231973 Yes it is fast for a hybrid (dual sport). That is subjective because I am coming from a mountain bike that I used to mostly commute, so it is much faster than I was used to.
@@TheCommonSenseProfessor thank you I'm looking for a new bike I have a trek fx but it's a little older now I want more speed I ride in the city of chicago I dont want mountain bikes anymore and I dont want the thin wheels of a road bike Thanks for replying I'm going to look into he giant
@@bambam6231973 we have a Giant Escape at my college that students used to convert to an Ebike. I have ridden it several times around town. The Escape is Giant's version of the FX. I think that the Roam is a happy medium between the thin tired hard nosed Escape and a mountain bike. I decided to go ahead and get the Roam 2 because it has upgraded derailleurs and a 1 x 8 system. I was not sorry at all. It is a much better system, but if you are looking for more speed, you might like the more gears. Good luck.
@@TalalipopMTB one can hope 😭 thank you mr talalipop I found your channel at the start of the pandemic. I believe it was trek 2020 vs 2021 what has changed but that sealed it for me and I bought the dual sport 3 😂
@@TalalipopMTB damn I just got an email from trek about my bike being delayed till 7/19/2021😭😭 idk if I should cancel cause I’m so set on that bike. And if trek themselves are saying till then I doubt any other store has them😭
I sure wish the biking industry would get their heads together and come up with a standardized classification of bikes. This type of bike alone can be called: dual sport, Enduro, hybrid, cross trainer, Cross Fitness, Urban and probably many other names. It makes it a real pain in the butt to try to shop for a bike when you have no clue what different manufacturers are calling essentially the same bike.
Many Thanks for this great informative video, resulting in the Dual Sport 3 ,the best option, I was thinking of getting a Trek FX with fixed fork , but thinking about the state of the roads, pot holes etc , maybe the Dual Sport with suspension might be better , and also for tracks, bridleways ,etc Is the FX and Dual Sport both the same at speed on a flat road , or does the Dual Sport lag slightly behind Many thanks Gary
amazing video. I had ordered the dual sport 3 as an impulde purchase. Went to store to look at marlin 5 but I wont be doing much mtbing so devided on dual sport 3
Yes, this video was great in detail and getting to know the components of a bike. Is the dual sport 3 a tubeless tire. Is the kickstand a add on part? What type of equipments can be use on the duals sport series bike and are the interchangeable?
Hello Talalipop. I hope you're doing ok. I'm looking to upgrade the frame of my kinda old Giant ATX 2 2017. I have managed to shave off some weight by switching the handlebars, switching to a rigid fork and slimmer tires, and upgrading the groupset to an SLX 2x12. Most of the time, my rides are on a mix of paved roads and broken asphalt on hilly terrain. Should I opt for one of these or to one of the Talon/Marlin lineup and just switching to a gravel setup? I'm not really sure if I'm going to tackle some trails sooner, but I'd really appreciate being a bit faster/lighter. The cost could be an issue as well, as the DS2 (only ones available now) here is pricier than the Talon 3 or 4 (opting for the more affordable models, since I have a decent groupset already). I'd really appreciate your inputs on this. Thanks man!
Hey there! Hybrid bikes like the dual sports are going to be faster than the mountain bikes like the marlins, especially on the road/asphalt since they have lighter frames, lighter components in general, and components that are more oriented for the road like the thinner tires which weigh less. If you're not going to be going on actual mountain biking trails then the dual sports are definitely going to be a better option, but if you think you'll want to try out mountain biking the marlins will be much better to have the versatility.
@@TalalipopMTB Thanks for the reply! Just a follow up, if I replace the stock handlebar and stem with a wider bar and shorter stem, would the geometry be identical to an MTB? I'm thinking of it as a low cost gravel/mtb setup.
@@rdr33 It would be closer but definitely not identical because the frame itself has different geometry. The amount of travel in the suspension fork also makes a difference, but regardless it should still be good.
Great review Sir! Can the Dual Sport line be fitted with slightly wider/taller tires? Most of my riding is smooth flat gravel trails though some areas are pretty rough and also want to be able to hop up and down curbs in town. Considering the Marlin as well but much prefer the more upright riding position of the DS (leaning DS2/DS3) as I've put what must be several thousand miles on a Schwinn Sierra GS "Sport Comfort" style bike that I've enjoyed since new in 1999. Also, I'm 6'2 so figuring a L or XL frame?
I haven't personally tried fitting a larger tire so I'm not completely sure what the absolute maximum would be, but I do know the dual sports can be fitted with 29" x 1.8" mountain bike tires. Also, an XL is probably the better choice for your height!
I’m coming off a 7 year old Trek Verve 3. Most of my riding is on trails, or pavement, approximately 75%. 25% on limestone, packed dirt, or another types of trails. I seem to be favoring the Dual Sport 4. We usually ride 18-25 miles at around 10-13 MPH average a couple times a week during the nice weather. Do you think the Dual Sport 4 would be a good choice for me? Thank you.
hey man been a subscriber since before the first marlin videos and ended up getting one because of you! im looking to upgrade my fork and if you could do a video comparing the rockshox recon line or forks of a similar spec id really appreciate it thanks
Where can I find a DS with those prices?? Theyre at least $100 more on their website and I'm not sure where to check for those kind of prices for these bikes.
So I can get the DS2 equipped now (Feb) or wait till June for the DS3. I like more gears as I will be primarily using it for paved roads but I do need a bit more ommf which is why I need the hybrid. Is a 4 month wait worth the slightly better components and larger price or should DS2 suffice? I guess later on I can get rid of DS2 and buy DS3 later on maybe when they are more available? unless something better comes out. any help?
Great vid! Thx! Just signed for a DS3 to replace an antic TREK 4300 from 2007! Objective is to go faster while stil being able to do easy trails. I receive it next Tuesday! Hope it will indeed be a good choice...
Nice!! Sounds like it should totally work for your purposes. The FX lineup is lighter and faster and is still a hybrid if you want to consider those too, but they do not have suspension forks and use thinner tires.
@@TalalipopMTB Hello! A lighter bike like the FX would indeed have been great but the DS tires and fork with blocking system seem to offer the balance I was seeking. Moreover, coming from a 2007 4300, I guess upgrade should already be significant.🤞To be checked as from next week.👍 I am just still wondering if a conversion to tubeless is necessary or not...🙄 Have a nice day!
@@grege8420 That makes sense! Going tubeless isn't necessary unless you are getting flats very often and it's becoming a hassle, or if you maybe want to save a bit of weight. I'd say just ride the bike as you would for a while and if flats from thorns become a significant problem then convert.
Should've gotten DS3 instead of DS4, told bike salesman like road trips as well and didn't suggest this bike instead. Do you suggest an upgrade on gears and if so, how? thanks
I think the DS4 is a great bike for sure; and it’s definitely not bad on the roads if you don’t think it is. I just notice sometimes people talk about not have a fast enough gear on the road but if you are fine with the lowest and highest gears then it’s definitely a better bike based on the other components!
Oh interesting; I thought the prices would remain the same, at least if you are buying from a Trek store. Maybe other local bike shops have increased their prices due to the higher demand?
@@TalalipopMTB yeap, almost all the bikes have increased their prices. Even the Trek ones in Trek stores. However, the worst problem is that most of them are out of stock. My plan is to wait until june (when new models are released) hoping for a discount on 2020 models.
Can you help me ? I am doubting between the TREK X-caliber 9 and the Specialized Rockhopper expert 29. What would you choose ? I want to use the bicycle for the street and forest.
The X-Caliber 9 is around $400 more than the rockhopper expert, so it has some nicer features like a remote suspension lockout and a shimano SLX/XT drivetrain which is very reliable and high end. The X-Caliber does not have tubeless ready tires though so you would have to eventually get new tires if you wanted a tubeless setup. I think I like the specialized more in this case but I haven't ridden either to say 100% for sure.
hey mate, Im new subscriber and been smashing vids on the marlin. I have just orded the marlin 6 in a large. Im about 178 cm or 5'8 roughly. Will large be a good fit for me or should i have orded the medium frame? thanks so much congrats on the awesome job
I think the large is a bit too big actually; I'm around the same height and ride a medium. My Marlin 5 is a size M/L which is a little too big but not unbearable. It's a bit up to personal preference but the large size is usually for people 5'10" - 6'2"
@@TalalipopMTB thank you so much for the feed back. when it comes ill be sure to test ride a few other bikes to see if they feel right. thanks so much mate.
I am so sad because of prices on these bikes that decently increased in the last time. For example, my choice is dual sport 3 which costs in Russia nowadays 1400 dollars
thank you very much for nice and useful explanation , steel ı need your recommend ,ı want to have a bike for easily pedaling on hills , speed is in second importance for me ,my current bike fx 6 sport , is Dual Sport 4 better then FX 6 on hills ?
Hey man. Absolutely love your videos and reviews. Great info and very clear information :) Got a random question that’s unrelated to this video, and was hoping you could help me. So i notice for Trek’s DS series, the bikes used to be named 8.2 - 8.6 DS up until 2016, then became DS 1 - 4 from 2017 onwards. Is it still the same series? If so, why the change in naming system? Is it simply to make it simpler and more straight forward? In that case, would the 2016 8.6 DS be the equivalent of the 2017 DS 4? Thanks man :)
Probably the DS 3 since it is definitely the most reliable and well built bike. The DS 2 could also work but in my opinion the DS 3 will last longer and just be easier to deal with.
I tried the DS2 and the DS3.
In my opinion, The DS2 is a very solid bike but still feels rough around the edges with the gear changes. The DS2 feels like a Mid quality bike.
The DS3 Feels like a solid good quality bike with not defects or shortfalls in it.
I got a DS3 and recommend the extra cash in order to have something that you can feel completely good about.
These comparison videos are wonderful. Thorough and clean. Thank you.
Thank you too!
Your explanation on the difference between the bikes are crystal clear. Very much informative. I will buy the DS3 based on your video. Keep up the good work!
Awesome!!
I own a Trek FX 1, which shares few components with Trek DS 1.
I would like to point out few issues concerning the components:
A. The Bottom bracket of the lower-end DS is probably VP (68mm, 121.5mm ) threaded square tapered bracket. It is of lower quality, albeit cheap, than the equivalent Shimano bottom bracket and calls for relatively frequent replacements. Please note that 121.5mm bottom bracket is not manufactured by Shimano, so replacing by a Shimano bottom bracket would result in slight change of the chain line.
B. Trying to get a cheap replacement stem (for fitting purposes) for a 25.4mm flat handlebar (DS-1/2) is a pain. BTW, the original 2 bolt stem on DS-1 is heavier than regular 4 bolt construction.
C. A 7 speed freewheel (DS-1) may cause a breakage of the rear axle.
D. The Z-series (DS-1/2) as opposed to the X-series (DS-3/4) chains by KMC tend to quickly wear down and degrade other drive-train components.
My reservations are based on the maintenance I perform on two Trek FX 1 bikes bought in 2016 and 2017:
A. Two Bottom bracket replacements. One for each bike.
B. Two stem replacements. One for each bike.
C. Two axles replacements. One for each bike.
D. Chains, freewheels and a single crank-set.
Conclusion:
For commuting purposes, I would avoid DS-1.
Great comparison and review. I picked up my DS4 last week and have been putting dozens of miles on it every day since. I’m loving it! I’m glad I spent the extra money for the 4. Plus it looks sexy to me lol. I might install a dropper and maybe go tubeless eventually with the way I ride since I’ve already gotten a flat smashing around local streets and trails. I recommend the DS4 to anyone thinking about getting a bike for fitness and fun. I would of course not use it for anything too technical although it might be able to take the extra beating.
Thank you!! The DS 4 definitely sounds like an amazing bike on paper so it’s good to hear that it lives up to that!
I am planning to buy DS4. Is this good for city ride ? How much average speed do you get ? I do average 150 kms a week , do give your feedback
Hi Talal, thank you so much for all your Trek spec and line-up comparison videos. These have massively helped me narrow my choice. They helped me understand the hardware differences (Deore vs lower spec) and also helped me decide to go DS instead of Marlin or X-cal. Armed with that info I only needed to test ride 2 or 3 bikes at my bike store, not 10 different models... which they certainly preferred! Just waiting for the right size frames to come in and then will choose between a DS3 or DS4. Thanks again!
That’s awesome!! So glad my videos helped :))
Thanks for all your hard work compiling this comparison, much appreciated!
You’re welcome! Glad it helped :)
That's the type of detailed comparison I was looking for. Great job.
Glad it helped!!
Got my DS4 a few days ago, and have been doing some steep climbs on this.
Here is my take:
For downhill and normal roads this bike does very very well. Very good speeds.
However for climbing gradients, DS4 SUCKS big time. It's a big big disappointment when it comes to climbing.
My analysis is this probably due to the gears which are spaced at 3 tooth intervals.
My suggestion: If you need a dual sport, then save your money and go for the 2x9 Dual Sport 3 version instead.
1x on non trail stuff has always seemed peculiar to me. The extra range on a 2x very handy when on paved/roads.
Love my 2021 DS 3. Waited 2.5 months for it, but it was worth every minute. And penny!
Nice!! It's a great bike for sure.
Do you mainly use it for roads? Or for gravel/mountain/etc?
@@johnathankim6721 Hey! Mostly road and paved trails. But have used it on gravel occasionally. It performs beautifully on both. I use it mainly for cardio. It’s a bit heavy, but it will give you an awesome workout! Love it,
@@mitchm.4959 yeah that’s exactly what I want it for. To be able to do cardio without running cause I have bad knees and also being able to take in some sights!
@@johnathankim6721 Hey Johnathan. It’s an awesome bike for working out. And very sturdy and able. I love mine and ride it about 24 miles every other day. You’ll probably have to order one at your local bike shop. I waited 2.5 months for mine due to Covid. But I have a feeling the wait may not be that long now. It’s possible they have a few in stock too. But don’t be shocked if you have to wait. Good luck, hope you don’t have to wait!
Thanks for this video! bike shops and bike manufacturers do little if nothing explaining the difference in the increase in prices.
No problem!!
I like your videos and how clear it is to see what is different from the bikes
Thank you!!
Excellent - I've been in search of this video before buying. Seems that the Dual Sport 2 is a perfect deal.
Glad it helped! I have made a new version of this video for the Gen 5 dual sport bikes as well if you are interested.
Clear and informative videos, like what you’re doing man. How would you compare the Dual Sports vs Giant Roam series?
Thank for your video, i was not decided on which bike worth the money and I didi after watching your well done research... I bought DS3 and found it worth the money, so good bike by all mean. thanks again
You’re welcome! So glad it helped :)
Extremely excellent video, I hope everybody learns from yours. This was extremely helpful in my decision and I am going to subscribe to your channel for other videos.
Thank you!! Definitely appreciate your feedback and sub :D
Nice compilation. Straight to the point and no deviation from the topic. Good job.
Thank you!!
Thank you for the awesome review! This was extremely helpful!
You’re welcome!!
Wow. Great job. Now I'm really considering the 4. Looking to see if you have a riding impression video of the 4. Keep up the good work.
Thank you!! Unfortunately the DS 4 is pretty rare these days as it’s a completely new bike, so we haven’t seen any around yet :( but I’ll definitely make a video on one in person if we do!
Great video! Can you do the same video but 2022?
Now ds4 is ds3 (almost) they have not mentioned ds4 on the web page anymore.
Fabulous video man. Exceptional decomposition of features in a super efficient video. You rule!
Thank you!! I appreciate that :D
FYI - the 2022 Trek Dual Sport 3 now has a 1x10 drive train instead of the 2x9 that was described in this video.
Brooooo,
Super video very nice explain. Thankyou so much.
Happy New year ❤️👍
Happy new year!!
Complete clarity. Thanks so much. I have subscribed and will go seek out your fx comparison now.
Thank you!
Excellent comparison video, well done!
Thank you!!
Just the video I was looking for. Awesome work. keep going :D
Thank you!! Glad you liked it :)
Got dual sport 2. Your video helped me decide. Thanks
You’re welcome!
how is the Dual sport 2, is it good?
Nice video, excellent content. Love your channel
Thank you!!
How do these compare with Cannondale Quick CX 4?
I too want to know
great job! I have the DS4 and went tubeless this spring. And reduced width from 40mm to 35mm. I feel the ride is less jaring and handling is more confident especially around sharp turns.
That’s awesome!! Glad it worked out :D
Have you climbed any steep hills on your bike ? If so how was it. I’m looking for a fast bike, for the rail trails. I had a Cannondale Quick CX4,was a decent bike,just looking for an upgrade ,appreciate any feedback thank u!
This is gonna help me out allot.
Thanks Man.
No problem!! Glad I could help :)
Great channel. I ended up purchasing a Giant Roam 2 instead of the Trek Dual Sport because of the price and components. You should do a comparison of the Roams and Dual Sports.
Is your giant fast??
@@bambam6231973 Yes it is fast for a hybrid (dual sport). That is subjective because I am coming from a mountain bike that I used to mostly commute, so it is much faster than I was used to.
@@TheCommonSenseProfessor thank you I'm looking for a new bike I have a trek fx but it's a little older now I want more speed I ride in the city of chicago I dont want mountain bikes anymore and I dont want the thin wheels of a road bike
Thanks for replying I'm going to look into he giant
@@bambam6231973 we have a Giant Escape at my college that students used to convert to an Ebike. I have ridden it several times around town. The Escape is Giant's version of the FX. I think that the Roam is a happy medium between the thin tired hard nosed Escape and a mountain bike. I decided to go ahead and get the Roam 2 because it has upgraded derailleurs and a 1 x 8 system. I was not sorry at all. It is a much better system, but if you are looking for more speed, you might like the more gears. Good luck.
I had to put an order in for shipments till February due to high demand 😭 I’m still hyped the orange is so vibrant 😍
Yeah bikes are so backed up right now unfortunately :(( but sometimes they do end up randomly coming sooner so you might get lucky!
@@TalalipopMTB one can hope 😭 thank you mr talalipop I found your channel at the start of the pandemic. I believe it was trek 2020 vs 2021 what has changed but that sealed it for me and I bought the dual sport 3 😂
@@TalalipopMTB you 🐐
@@mamasplan9183 Thank you too!! I'm glad the vids helped :D
@@TalalipopMTB damn I just got an email from trek about my bike being delayed till 7/19/2021😭😭 idk if I should cancel cause I’m so set on that bike. And if trek themselves are saying till then I doubt any other store has them😭
Amazing video, I just got home from a cold muddy mtb ride, so a nice talaipaop video for when I get home is 👍 nice 👍
Aw hahaha thank you so much :)
It’s one of those things In life I love a muddy bike ride and sitting in front of the fire watching a talaipop video.
@@Osscar12356 AW THAT'S SO SWEET HAHAHA
Almost to 10k love your vids.
I know!!! I'm so excited :)
Great video, found it really useful thank you, Just order DS4 only down side is I have to wait until March before it’s delivered.
Thank you too!
Now its not even available. The stores are saying they dont think they will come back with the DS4 until a new revision/name comes out.
Great video, I ordered today the DS4, I had the DS3 and it was great, but someone stole it, I would like to try the DS4
Sorry to hear someone stole the bike, but the DS 4 is a pretty nice bike on paper. Would love to ride one if our store gets them in stock :D
Loved the information.
Glad you did!
I sure wish the biking industry would get their heads together and come up with a standardized classification of bikes.
This type of bike alone can be called: dual sport, Enduro, hybrid, cross trainer, Cross Fitness, Urban and probably many other names.
It makes it a real pain in the butt to try to shop for a bike when you have no clue what different manufacturers are calling essentially the same bike.
Trek's webdesigners could learn from you. Great video!
Many Thanks for this great informative video, resulting in the Dual Sport 3 ,the best option, I was thinking of getting a Trek FX with fixed fork , but thinking about the state of the roads, pot holes etc , maybe the Dual Sport with suspension might be better , and also for tracks, bridleways ,etc
Is the FX and Dual Sport both the same at speed on a flat road , or does the Dual Sport lag slightly behind
Many thanks Gary
Fx has narrower tyres, so slightly fast on road, but in my opinion the tyres are too skinny for any decent trails. I bought a DS3 for this reason
Hello. Do you know if the DS2 G5 is good for the city, for every day use? (I have a old Dahon Boardwalk). Thanks.
It should be great for that purpose!
I have the Sport 2 and im happy with it.
:D yay!
Just got the DS2 because i wanted the Viper red paint job, will be throwing on a Bafang mid drive unit w 52 volts and 13.5 ah. its around 795.00
amazing video. I had ordered the dual sport 3 as an impulde purchase. Went to store to look at marlin 5 but I wont be doing much mtbing so devided on dual sport 3
Thank you! The dual sport 3 is a great one for sure.
How about size ? I’m on the fence between a medium or large !? Thanks!
Wow thanks I really needed this vid I can imaging how much time and research this took I can decide between the 2 or 3 any recommendations
Nice review. Well done! In short, why would you buy the DS3 and not the DS4? Do you think the components are good quality on the DS3?
Yes, this video was great in detail and getting to know the components of a bike. Is the dual sport 3 a tubeless tire. Is the kickstand a add on part? What type of equipments can be use on the duals sport series bike and are the interchangeable?
I really like the flat grey or black versions.
Awesome video, thanks!
Welcome!
Great video as usual 👍🏻👌❤️
Thank you :D
Great review! Ds4 for sure! Nice ride 😜
Wish you could review and ride a Raleigh High Nellie. Just to see what you think of it.
Hello Talalipop. I hope you're doing ok.
I'm looking to upgrade the frame of my kinda old Giant ATX 2 2017. I have managed to shave off some weight by switching the handlebars, switching to a rigid fork and slimmer tires, and upgrading the groupset to an SLX 2x12.
Most of the time, my rides are on a mix of paved roads and broken asphalt on hilly terrain. Should I opt for one of these or to one of the Talon/Marlin lineup and just switching to a gravel setup? I'm not really sure if I'm going to tackle some trails sooner, but I'd really appreciate being a bit faster/lighter.
The cost could be an issue as well, as the DS2 (only ones available now) here is pricier than the Talon 3 or 4 (opting for the more affordable models, since I have a decent groupset already).
I'd really appreciate your inputs on this. Thanks man!
Hey there! Hybrid bikes like the dual sports are going to be faster than the mountain bikes like the marlins, especially on the road/asphalt since they have lighter frames, lighter components in general, and components that are more oriented for the road like the thinner tires which weigh less. If you're not going to be going on actual mountain biking trails then the dual sports are definitely going to be a better option, but if you think you'll want to try out mountain biking the marlins will be much better to have the versatility.
@@TalalipopMTB Thanks for the reply! Just a follow up, if I replace the stock handlebar and stem with a wider bar and shorter stem, would the geometry be identical to an MTB? I'm thinking of it as a low cost gravel/mtb setup.
@@rdr33 It would be closer but definitely not identical because the frame itself has different geometry. The amount of travel in the suspension fork also makes a difference, but regardless it should still be good.
Great video thanks for the info im ordering the ds 3 for my girlfriend tomorrow
Awesome!!
Great review Sir! Can the Dual Sport line be fitted with slightly wider/taller tires? Most of my riding is smooth flat gravel trails though some areas are pretty rough and also want to be able to hop up and down curbs in town. Considering the Marlin as well but much prefer the more upright riding position of the DS (leaning DS2/DS3) as I've put what must be several thousand miles on a Schwinn Sierra GS "Sport Comfort" style bike that I've enjoyed since new in 1999. Also, I'm 6'2 so figuring a L or XL frame?
I haven't personally tried fitting a larger tire so I'm not completely sure what the absolute maximum would be, but I do know the dual sports can be fitted with 29" x 1.8" mountain bike tires. Also, an XL is probably the better choice for your height!
Great review 👍👍👍
Thanks!
I’m coming off a 7 year old Trek Verve 3. Most of my riding is on trails, or pavement, approximately 75%. 25% on limestone, packed dirt, or another types of trails. I seem to be favoring the Dual Sport 4. We usually ride 18-25 miles at around 10-13 MPH average a couple times a week during the nice weather. Do you think the Dual Sport 4 would be a good choice for me? Thank you.
I think that should work pretty well!
version 3 it is then. Thanks for the info.
You’re welcome :)
Very professional !!! One question on the DS 4 i am not sure if the shifter comes with Visible gear numbers dial!!
No it doesn’t
wow, this guy gets it. great video
Thank you!!
hey man been a subscriber since before the first marlin videos and ended up getting one because of you! im looking to upgrade my fork and if you could do a video comparing the rockshox recon line or forks of a similar spec id really appreciate it
thanks
Thank you! And interesting idea; I’ll think about that one!
Very helpful video! Unfortunately, shops here are all on back order. Is there an equivalent to the Dual Sport that's similar? 🚲
^^^
I would like to know as well!
@@nathanielgarcia2532 giant roam
great review. thanks
Welcome!
Great breakdown and comparison on the bikes! I'm thinking the DS 3 is for me. I wish I can get in blue rather than orange though.
Thank you!
Where can I find a DS with those prices?? Theyre at least $100 more on their website and I'm not sure where to check for those kind of prices for these bikes.
So I can get the DS2 equipped now (Feb) or wait till June for the DS3. I like more gears as I will be primarily using it for paved roads but I do need a bit more ommf which is why I need the hybrid. Is a 4 month wait worth the slightly better components and larger price or should DS2 suffice? I guess later on I can get rid of DS2 and buy DS3 later on maybe when they are more available? unless something better comes out. any help?
What did u ended up getting? I’m having same debates right now
Well done on this vid
Damn! These bike are really becoming baby mountain bikes.
Hahaha definitely!
Just purchased the DS3 with the help of this video! Thanks! Can't wait to get it in a month
No problem!
Where did you find one in stock??
Great vid! Thx! Just signed for a DS3 to replace an antic TREK 4300 from 2007! Objective is to go faster while stil being able to do easy trails. I receive it next Tuesday! Hope it will indeed be a good choice...
Nice!! Sounds like it should totally work for your purposes. The FX lineup is lighter and faster and is still a hybrid if you want to consider those too, but they do not have suspension forks and use thinner tires.
@@TalalipopMTB Hello! A lighter bike like the FX would indeed have been great but the DS tires and fork with blocking system seem to offer the balance I was seeking. Moreover, coming from a 2007 4300, I guess upgrade should already be significant.🤞To be checked as from next week.👍 I am just still wondering if a conversion to tubeless is necessary or not...🙄 Have a nice day!
@@grege8420 That makes sense! Going tubeless isn't necessary unless you are getting flats very often and it's becoming a hassle, or if you maybe want to save a bit of weight. I'd say just ride the bike as you would for a while and if flats from thorns become a significant problem then convert.
@@TalalipopMTB Thank you for your advice! I will definitely do that! :D
@@grege8420 No problem!!
Talalipop, have you noticed the handle bars on the dual sport 3? On the bike ive seen they were not centered with the front tire.
They should be centered; that was likely a mistake by the bike shop you saw it at.
This is excellent!!! 3 for me👍👍😎
Thank you!!
Should've gotten DS3 instead of DS4, told bike salesman like road trips as well and didn't suggest this bike instead. Do you suggest an upgrade on gears and if so, how? thanks
I think the DS4 is a great bike for sure; and it’s definitely not bad on the roads if you don’t think it is. I just notice sometimes people talk about not have a fast enough gear on the road but if you are fine with the lowest and highest gears then it’s definitely a better bike based on the other components!
Currently there seems to be a problem with 'availability', at least in Europe.
Are these 29r’s??? Can’t find any information anywhere on the Trek website.
Bro do you recommend to wait a few/some months to buy a bike? Prices are sharp due to covid, at least here in my country. I was thinking into the DS2
Oh interesting; I thought the prices would remain the same, at least if you are buying from a Trek store. Maybe other local bike shops have increased their prices due to the higher demand?
@@TalalipopMTB yeap, almost all the bikes have increased their prices. Even the Trek ones in Trek stores. However, the worst problem is that most of them are out of stock. My plan is to wait until june (when new models are released) hoping for a discount on 2020 models.
@@eduardomarcosserquen8280 Oh yeah they have increased for every bike brand, but usually only by $20 or so.
The DS4 seems impossible to find right now. Will production be picking up anytime soon?
Yeah man I wanted to spend my stimmy check on it lmao
@@Alejandro-du6vq I found a 2021 Jamis Portal A2 and decided to go the full suspension route.
Hi can I ask if about 175cm in height what size should I get if I am looking at dual sport 3 .
Why on L dual sports is stem 20mm longer on DS 4? For example on DS2 it is 80mm whereas 100mm on DS4.
I want the marlin 7 in color red to orange
When are dual sport 2022 launching
Haven't heard anything about those yet!
@@TalalipopMTB ok thanks
Great work as always TPop, now to find me a DS4......
Thank you!!
Nice job, thanks.
Thank you too!
Will you be doing any comparisons of brands other than Trek now that you work at Trek?
I already have! I've done a lot on Giant and Specialized.
Can you help me ?
I am doubting between the TREK X-caliber 9 and the Specialized Rockhopper expert 29.
What would you choose ?
I want to use the bicycle for the street and forest.
The X-Caliber 9 is around $400 more than the rockhopper expert, so it has some nicer features like a remote suspension lockout and a shimano SLX/XT drivetrain which is very reliable and high end. The X-Caliber does not have tubeless ready tires though so you would have to eventually get new tires if you wanted a tubeless setup. I think I like the specialized more in this case but I haven't ridden either to say 100% for sure.
hey mate, Im new subscriber and been smashing vids on the marlin. I have just orded the marlin 6 in a large. Im about 178 cm or 5'8 roughly. Will large be a good fit for me or should i have orded the medium frame? thanks so much congrats on the awesome job
I think the large is a bit too big actually; I'm around the same height and ride a medium. My Marlin 5 is a size M/L which is a little too big but not unbearable. It's a bit up to personal preference but the large size is usually for people 5'10" - 6'2"
@@TalalipopMTB thank you so much for the feed back. when it comes ill be sure to test ride a few other bikes to see if they feel right. thanks so much mate.
@@garyhost1830 No problem!!
I am so sad because of prices on these bikes that decently increased in the last time. For example, my choice is dual sport 3 which costs in Russia nowadays 1400 dollars
Say tnx for putin...
Which one is best for speed!???
What is the price of these bikes in Houston Texas i really want one
Can you review the 2021 version of the trek fuel ex 8? No rush
Thank you for the detailed comparison. Does the chainring offered in DS3 faster than DS2 with respect to the ratio?
thank you very much for nice and useful explanation , steel ı need your recommend ,ı want to have a bike for easily pedaling on hills , speed is in second importance for me ,my current bike fx 6 sport , is Dual Sport 4 better then FX 6 on hills ?
Fx 6 as it has skinnier wheels but its less comfortable compared to ds4
Personally i would choose ds4
My DS-2 had a 2x9 drive train. Idk why, but I don’t really care it’s nice
Totally helped
Awesome!!
Does the 3 have a really comfortable relaxed upright ride?
The Trek verve bikes will have a more upright ride for sure but the DS 3 isn’t bad either.
Hey man. Absolutely love your videos and reviews. Great info and very clear information :)
Got a random question that’s unrelated to this video, and was hoping you could help me.
So i notice for Trek’s DS series, the bikes used to be named 8.2 - 8.6 DS up until 2016, then became DS 1 - 4 from 2017 onwards.
Is it still the same series? If so, why the change in naming system? Is it simply to make it simpler and more straight forward?
In that case, would the 2016 8.6 DS be the equivalent of the 2017 DS 4?
Thanks man :)
Which would be the best for heavy touring except ds4. Please answee it
Probably the DS 3 since it is definitely the most reliable and well built bike. The DS 2 could also work but in my opinion the DS 3 will last longer and just be easier to deal with.
Is the DS2 faster than DS3