Riding the Upgraded 2022 Marin Bobcat Trail 4

In the last video I performed two key upgrades on this 2022 Marin Bobcat Trail 4 in hopes of turning this good bike into a great bike.
First, I installed a Rockshox Rekon air fork. It is lighter and more adjustable than the stock coil spring fork. Next, I installed a PNW Ridge dropper post with 125mm of travel and a wallet friendly price tag of $129. I used a PNW Puget 2x lever which is available for only $29. Plus at the time of publishing this video, PNW is offering 20% off orders over $50.
So the question is, did these upgrades rally make a difference? Did they make the Bobcat Trail 4 the great bike that I was hoping for? Let's find out...
PNW Ridge Dropper Post:
www.pnwcompone...
PNW Puget Lever:
www.pnwcompone...
Full disclosure, PNW did send me these parts for review.
If you're looking to add a tapered fork to this bike, this is the lower headset I used is this (make sure to get the EC44/40 version):
amzn.to/3DJnGAt
Update: Here is a Rockshox Judy with a tapered steerer tube and qr dropouts, meaning you you can use the stock front wheel but you’ll have to swap the headset like I did:
amzn.to/3vKGxbL
Or you could go with a SR Suntour Epixon like this one that has a straight steerer tube so you don’t even have to swap the headset: amzn.to/3vCpUiq
Want to buy a Bobcat Trail 4? Click the links below. As of 9/14/2022 they are on sale for $748!
29er version:
www.avantlink....
27.5 version
www.avantlink....

[@marin_bikes]

Hey Brian - glad you appreciated the Bobcat Trail 4 and felt it upgrade-worthy. Cheers!

[@downtoridemtb]

Absolutely, solid platform and luckily the upgrade list is a short one at that!

[@MikaelaNowakka]

@MarinBikes I have some problem how to choose proper dropper post to my Nail Trail 6 (2k17). I'm 5'8 (173cm) and ride on M frame. Still cant decide whether 125 or 150 mm travel will fit for me. Could You give me some guidelines

[@neillazaro1732]

Hi, can i use a lower travel fork for the bobcat?. im planning to replace it with a 100mm travel fork.

[@marin_bikes]

@@neillazaro1732 Hey Neil - you can, but we recommend that you stay within 10mm +/- of the original fork's axle to crown measurement. Going shorter won't void the warranty, but will affect how the bike handles, as it'll throw off your angles.

[@neillazaro1732]

@@marin_bikes thank you

[@TrailSage]

Love the new upgrades. Interesting take on which is more important, I would have thought dropper. Good to see the hardtails getting some love.

[@downtoridemtb]

As someone who is used to riding with a dropper, I completely agree with you because it’s even harder going back to not having one. Thanks for watching!

[@mike.thomas]

I’ve watched a few of your videos now and I just want to give you a big 👍 as the best “regular guy” biketube reviewer I’ve watched thus far. Hopefully you don’t take that as a backhanded compliment, because it’s certainly not meant that way. Back in the day, I was a “regular guy” photography and general “guy stuff” creator, and I love it when I run across content like yours in this day of over-produced YT vids. Keep it up - YT badly needs more non-shill, regular guy, content like yours!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks dude. I definitely think of myself as the regular guy so I’m glad you appreciate it. I have better things to do than set up fancy lighting and spend hours editing videos. I think an honest opinion is more valuable.

[@mike.thomas]

@@downtoridemtb You’re def welcome. You seem to be a natural. Very well-spoken and seem to cover the most important things, and with a balanced/fair take.

[@downtoridemtb]

@@mike.thomas thanks, I try to! More to come… specifically a series of videos related to that point of not wasting time.

[@Nogi-aka-DJNugz]

Just bought a bobcat 4 today! Excited!

[@downtoridemtb]

Awesome! Enjoy!

[@RavingNut]

Just got this bike for my nephew and was concerned that the bobcat 5 would have been better to get for his first mountain bike. However after this I'm feeling more planted in my decision in getting the bobcat 4, allowing him to upgrade what he wants as he moves and grows in the past time/sport. So if the draw of MTB doesn't bite, no decent loss of money in this purchase.

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah I think you made the right choice. Hope he enjoys it! Sounds like you are the “cool uncle” because that is one awesome gift!

[@ismaeladame3492]

Just upgraded to the epixon air fork and rockshox.. I’ve got to say what a game changer I love it!.. next is pedals & maybe some 2.4 tires for a bit more grip and not as rough on rocks/roots.

[@downtoridemtb]

Epixon is definitely nice and lightweight too! If you’re looking for pedals, check out the Marin Oso flat pedals. I have a review coming out on them within the next week.

[@marcinanimal985]

Hello, good job. I put on my bobcat 3 air suntour epixon 130 mm and can't wait good weather. I'm from Poland and now we have winter 😑

[@downtoridemtb]

I’m sure you’ll like it when you get a chance to ride. Hopefully you can enjoy some winter sports until then!

[@SafwanRahmanofficial]

Yeah, agree I have 2022 Bobcat 5.. and I am planning to get a dropper post for it in the future, as PNW dropper cost around 1K plus in my country

[@downtoridemtb]

Oh wow that’s crazy. As much as I like PNW, I’d say just get whatever is readily available where you are. Also be carful of getting one that is too much travel, someone just commented saying the water bottle bosses interfered with inserting it all the way.

[@CasperRc81]

Marketing scared people out of QR. if your flexing the QR shaft under hard pedaling buy a shimano XT skewer. Will absolutely take all the rear flex away and feel solid like boost. Great review

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah I agree. I’ve ridden both and don’t feel any difference.

[@mikiyosangyo1627]

Love the kickstand! Bike is nice too.

[@downtoridemtb]

LOL! No need for fancy kick stands here!

[@lukewalker1051]

Superb review and upgrade path. Many thanks!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@silhofn3]

Thanks for the explanation. I bought the same model like yours. So air fork is a must.

[@downtoridemtb]

I think it’s a must for any kind of serious trail riding. Hope you enjoy the bike!

[@josephmarshallandrada5404]

thanks bro. great review!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@peterharris3096]

I enjoyed watching this and the build video, One thing I,m curious about with the upgrade costs, you did not include the wheel set, thru bolts or taper conversion headset. i,m thinking of doing something similar as I have a wtb wheel set on my gravel bike and could use in a similar build. Thanks,

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks! Yeah those costs were assuming that one would be buying a fork with the matching standards so none of that stuff would be necessary. The fork I used was just because I had it sitting around. Anyway good luck with your upgrade.

[@peterharris3096]

@@downtoridemtb Yes my mistake, you cant use a thru bolt on the rear anyway. the upgrade you filmed is the way to go. Cheers.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

So I have a bobcat trail 5 2022 I want to add a dropper seatpost and air forks I found a good deal on rockshox Sid ultimate 120mm travel their is a way to insert the Sid’s tapered steer tube the stock headset needs to be removed then an alternative option gives you a sealed bearing and allows you to insert a tapered steer but will the bobcat be compatible with the Sid ultimate since the trail 5 don’t have boost

[@downtoridemtb]

An ec44 lower headset will allow you to run the tapered fork. But you’ll need a boost thru axle front wheel. No real workaround on that unless you learn how to build a wheel and replace just the hub. Not worth the trouble in my opinion.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@downtoridemtb thank you much appreciated

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@downtoridemtb do you know the front hub is it 100mm x 15mm ?

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@downtoridemtb and will the wren INVERTED MOUNTAINBIKE SUSPENSION FORK 100mm x15mm or 110mm x 15mm be compatible with bobcat trail 5 stock 29” front hub

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@downtoridemtb and will a 2.4” wide tire clear rear tail without rubbing on trail 4 or 5?

[@AllBikeCommunity]

Dropper seatpost, one of useful upgrade for xc rider...

[@downtoridemtb]

For sure!

[@marshmallowroy9133]

Now it will get a great ride👍

[@downtoridemtb]

For sure, so much better and more fun!

[@guyuziely241]

Well made and super insightful video, thanks! The Bobcat Trail 4 looks like a great fit for what I’m after, but you got me a bit concerned with the last remark about your lower back 🙂 I don’t have serious lower back issues, but it does ache once in awhile as I spent many hours seating at work. Should I look for another bike..? Thanks!

[@downtoridemtb]

Well any hardtail is going to be the same. Something with 27.5+ size tires may take a little of the edge off but you’ll spend more. Or go full suspension but then you’re looking at double the cost. I guess it just depends on how your back feels and the type of trails you I tend to ride.

[@guyuziely241]

Thanks, Brian! A questing regarding sizing - Would you say these run true-to-size? I’m 5.6 with a 30.1 inseam (slightly short for my hight) and 23.2 arm length (relatively long for my hight). Any idea if the the Bobcat in M would be a good fit? Thanks!!

[@downtoridemtb]

That I can’t really speak to. I’d just go by the size chart on Marin’s website. One thing I would recommend, especially with comfort being a concern, is getting new bars. Something with more rise. PNW Range bars come to mind as an affordable but good option.

[@guyuziely241]

@@downtoridemtb good one! Thanks 🙏

[@downtoridemtb]

Welcome!

[@rikki5834]

I wanna use this for trails but also need a bike to commute to school would this bike be a good fit?

[@downtoridemtb]

I think so. Won’t be as efficient as a road bike for commuting but still usable

[@Innerpeace_soul_Life]

Good review. I am looking to buy budget hardtail. What are your overall thoughts on decathlon rockrider AM 100 HT considering the geometry and components and price?

[@downtoridemtb]

We don’t have it in the US but from what info I can find it looks really good!

[@Sherlock723]

Would you say it is better to use a 1 by drive train or 2? Out of what I’ve seen it seems the more popular option is the 1 by drive train.

[@downtoridemtb]

Hands down, 1x is better. Easier shifting, better chain retention, less parts to deal with.

[@Sherlock723]

@@downtoridemtb Thanks man, would this be the same for like biking to a friends house or like for everyday use as well?

[@downtoridemtb]

Better is ever case in my opinion.

[@fifistary]

it's not that clear for me. u had to change the wheel to fit the fork properly ?

[@downtoridemtb]

Right, the fork I used had boost 148 thru axles while stock is 135 qr axles. You can find forks like the Rockshox Judy that are compatible and use the stock wheel

[@robertwingham]

Love the kickstand how much did that upgrade cost

[@downtoridemtb]

LOL it was freehundred dollars! Supply far outweighs demand, you can find them pretty much anywhere.

[@alanmtbuk]

Great video mate currently riding a Carrera Vengeance(think posh Walmart bike) and I'm very tempted by the Marin bobcat trail 4 as a upgrade and I bike worth upgrading

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks. Yeah definitely a worthy platform to upgrade. Some different bars would be my only other change to it.

[@adamsz9439]

What frame size did you use? Im 182 cm and confused what size to choose 😢

[@downtoridemtb]

I’m 6ft and went with a large which fit well. Looks like that’s only 1cm taller than you, so you should be good with a large too.

[@jhairuyaguari6172]

Nice video, is that bike good for start practicing jumps?, i am new in MTB and i am not sure if that bike works as a hard tail. thanks

[@downtoridemtb]

I suppose it’s as good as any other bike in this price range for jumping but it’s not really designed for that. Small jumps will probably be ok but the fork does have a warning about it not being rated for jumps and aggressive riding.

[@jurisx85]

DI’d you have any trouble which the dropper and the water bosses? I did.

[@downtoridemtb]

I did not but this dropper is only 125mm and I don’t have it inserted very far. But I can see how that could be an issue with a longer travel dropper or possibly a smaller frame.

[@jurisx85]

@@downtoridemtb mine is a size M, and my dropper is also 125, and I’m 179 cm. It was imposible to fit it. I had to destroy the first water boss.

[@downtoridemtb]

That sucks but thanks for letting the people know!

[@ChrisTian-GTBIKE]

Bonjour j'ai un Bobcat trail 4 comme le votre j'envisage de changer la fourche également pour une à air avez vous été obligé de changer la jante d'origine Marin avant pour un axe transversal ?

[@downtoridemtb]

With this particular fork, yes. I just had to use the wheel off of my Rift Zone which is boost thru axle. You could get a Rockshox Judy with quick release axle dropouts and still use your original wheel.

[@ChrisTian-GTBIKE]

​@@downtoridemtbok merci pour l'info et merci pour vos vidéos 👍

[@alexp6409]

I have been looking at the Trail 4 and Trail 5 as my son's next bike (as well as a bike my wife can use, since he is getting so big)...bikesonline shows the 4 in size M with 27.5" wheels at 34.8lbs, and the 5 in the same size/wheels at 29.3lbs. Is there really 5.5lbs difference between these bikes??

[@downtoridemtb]

The weight listed on the 4 has to be wrong. I weighed this one which is a large with 29 inch wheels and it was just under 33 lbs with the pedals on.

[@alexmadz]

Hello. My height is 175 cm, which size should I choose? M or L? and what wheel size would be better? 27.5 or 29 for my height? Thank you!

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s hard to say since you’re right in between. Any dealer near you where you can test ride both?

[@alexmadz]

Thanks! I'll have to go to two different stores. What is your height and bike size in the video?

[@downtoridemtb]

@@alexmadz I’m around 6ft and this bike was a large. Fit was good. If it’s your first MTB, the medium might be best. Slightly lower stand over, easier to get a foot down when you feel like you might fall. I’d still go 29 for the wheel size though.

[@NotLucas83]

what is the Fork you used like can i have a link

[@downtoridemtb]

Couple links in the video description that are hopefully still valid

[@jhairuyaguari6172]

is a good idea to make mullet this bike ?

[@downtoridemtb]

If you’re looking at a small or medium with 27.5 wheels, then maybe. I wouldn’t increase the fork travel and put a 29er wheel up front though. It will throw off the geo too much. I also wouldn’t put on 27.5 rear wheel on a L/XL, would lower the bottom bracket too much. Hope that helps!

[@marco5343ggj]

how wide can you go with tyres?

[@downtoridemtb]

Is say 2.4 max on the stock wheels

[@mwitt41]

how do you think this bike with the upgrades you did stacks up against the san quentin 2? was looking between the bobcat trail 5 and san quentin 2 but seeming hard to find comparisons between those 2

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah they are quite different bikes. Bobcat Trail is more for XC while the San Quentin is more for gnarlier terrain. Different wheel sizes too.

[@jimmyliu3357]

Hi love your channel, I also got this bike as well and I’m new to MTB, quick question about the air fork. I love the rockshox fork so just wondering will they direct fit on OEM rim(quick release skewer set) , or do I need to get different wheel set to match the rockshox l? Thanks

[@downtoridemtb]

Hi thanks! As long as you get one with qr dropouts, then you can sue that same front wheel. As for tires, they are very personal preference for your style and your trails. I think the Rekon is a good all around rear tire. Minion DHR makes a good front tire, or Dissector for something slightly faster. If you want more outright grip over speed, Dissector rear, DHR front. Also worth looking at for a front is the Bontrager XR4. Looks every bit as aggressive as a DHR but less weight. 2.4 is a good width.

[@jimmyliu3357]

@@downtoridemtb thanks bro

[@downtoridemtb]

Welcome!

[@jimmyliu3357]

Also I’m looking for Maxxis tyres as well, what size you recommended for front and back? Thanks

[@downtoridemtb]

Not sure how I missed this comment til now. I think 2.4 is the most you’d want on the stock rims since they are not very wide.

[@jimmyliu3357]

@@downtoridemtb because u reply on my comment (below this)

[@Loro57575]

if you have 150mm travel on marin Rift zone do you still have refund/guarantee? If frame breaks or other thing happend.

[@downtoridemtb]

I’m really not too sure on that one. Best to contact Marin directly or ask your local Marin dealer.

[@holliedekraai4137]

So, is the front wheel now a thru axle now like on the bobcat trail 5?

[@downtoridemtb]

Not stock. The fork I put on was boost thru axle so I had to use the wheel from my Rift Zone.

[@alexmadz]

@@downtoridemtb Will the Rockshox Judy fork work without changing the wheel?

[@downtoridemtb]

Yes as long as you get the version with a straight steerer and quick release dropouts

[@holliedekraai4137]

How would you compare it yo the san quentin?

[@downtoridemtb]

San Quentin is a different type of bike. More for rowdier trails and jumps.

[@FoCoFlowShow]

My PNW Rainier V3 failed in less than a year … probably an isolated event but I was super bummed - I’ve personally used a TON of different droppers in the last few years (bike yolk, Fox factory transfer, OneUp v2, PNW Rainer, brand x ascend, manic fusion, reverb, KS eten and unfortunately the PNW was one of the worst of the batch along with the KS and Reverb . OneUp V2 is probably the sweet spot of price point and quality although my Bike Yolk Revive is the best dropper post of all time IMO

[@downtoridemtb]

Man that’s a bummer. I think all there stuff has a lifetime warranty now and it’s retroactive. So you might be able to get it replaced if you haven’t already done so.

[@xinyuldemajong3836]

which is best giant talon 2 or marin bobcat trail 4???? let me know please

[@downtoridemtb]

They’re both good. I like the frame geo and the lower stand over of the Bobcat trail. But I think the price is better on the talon (maybe) and the bars are better…. I don’t like the bobcats flat bars.

[@shivamhazarika9541]

Hii....1x9 is good for climb and speed

[@downtoridemtb]

1x9 with the 46t big cog is good. The one with the 42t big cog will make some climbs hard.

[@shivamhazarika9541]

@@downtoridemtb Marin Bobcat trail 4 and polygon xtrada 5....which has a better frame for trail ride?

[@downtoridemtb]

I would really say they are pretty equal. Specs are very similar.

[@rafikal1732]

@@shivamhazarika9541POLYGON HAVE

[@omeriluz9800]

Where are you man!? We miss you

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for checking in! Yeah I had an injury that kept me from riding most of January, then Covid, then I just wasn’t inspired to make a video. But today I actually just filmed a tire review video that will be out soon. We must be on the same wavelength because I was filming at the same time you posted your comment!

[@omeriluz9800]

@@downtoridemtbOH I'm sorry for your injury and happy to hear that you're going to post a new video .

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s all good! Thanks for the message. Cheers!

[@nowaylabs]

I hadn't noticed that the "affordable" Marin models have no tapered headtube, I thought it has become a standard, less expensive bikes like the Kona hardtails have it. Another thing that I don't like in their lower range of hardtails are the 2x & 3x speeds. Why not keep it simple and up to today's standards?

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah there are a few hold out on that straight steerer tube. The Giant Talon is the same way. I agree 100% on the 2x and 3x setups. Even a 1x8 would be better in my opinion. At least this one has the 1x.

[@andrewlux2084]

what size of frame and wheels?

[@downtoridemtb]

This one was a Large 29er

[@andrewlux2084]

@@downtoridemtb thanks

[@lgonz1984]

Does marin not include the rubber grommets for the dropper post cable ports?

[@downtoridemtb]

They might on retail bikes but not with this media sample bike that I had.

[@Letsdive64]

Im torn do I get the 2023 Bobcat 4 or the 5? I mean I see people doing upgrades to the 4 on KZbin, but I have not found anyone doing it to the 5, why

[@downtoridemtb]

Well some of the “better” stuff you’d get on the 5 are still not good and would be upgraded. Fork for example. But the drivetrain and bottom bracket are definitely better

[@alexmadz]

@@downtoridemtb I don’t understand this, but is it possible to install a Bobcat Trail 5 bottom bracket on a Bobcat Trail 4?

[@downtoridemtb]

Well you can upgrade the bottom bracket on it to the same level of or better. You’d need a new crank too. Low priority upgrade that will really only save some weight though.

[@josephmarshallandrada5404]

can you review san quentin2?

[@downtoridemtb]

I wish they’d send me one to review!

[@kursk2516]

I have same bike and Im using it for bikepacking

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s cool, I’ve never done any backpacking. Looks fun but I never have that kind of time. I’m lucky if I get a couple hours to ride.

[@palasari79]

Very nice👍

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@ridgeydidge4345]

L0ve the channel!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!!!

[@snajperpsg1]

What is the weight of the bike after modifications?

[@downtoridemtb]

I actually never weighed it after and I have since sent the bike back to Marin

[@mr.hollingsworth9224]

How heavy?

[@downtoridemtb]

32.8 lbs in size large with pedals

[@vaggospro4020]

I want you to suggest me 2-3 bikes with 1000 euros

[@downtoridemtb]

Well I don’t know exact prices in euros but three worth looking at are the Marin Bobcat Trail, Polygon Xtrada and Vitus Nucleus.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Great content! Consider me subbed! 💪

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks bro! Been subscribed to you for a while, digging your content and excited to see what’s next. Cheers!