For 2009, Marin’s Mount Vision line of trailbikes sees revisions in frame geometry, and instead of naming each version, all four models will receive a numerical denomination, such as the top level 5.9, 5.8, and so on. With Marin’s introduction of their lighter, shorter travel Alchemist Quad XCR series cross-country bike, they continue the evolution of the Mount Vision into a no-compromise trailbike. The major geometry tweaks of the 4.7-inch travel bike include a 1/4-inch lower bottom bracket (now 13.6 inches) and a half-degree slacker head angle (now 69.5 degrees), all intended to take away a twitchy cross-country race bike feel and give the Mount Vision more stability descending technical terrain and in corners.
Test quote: “The surprising aspect of the 4.7-inch-travel Mount Vision 120 was its snappy acceleration when climbing. The stiffness of the rear end, combined with the Fox shock’s distinct platform, helped riders hunker down and grind up the gnarly switchbacks and loose, rock-strewn singletrack. Going uphill is where the 2.24-inch WTB MotoRaptor Race tires excelled.”
Stoked:
A great fork (with 15QR axle)
Not like every bike on the trail
Bummed:
Stock tires somewhat limiting
Brakes could use a metallic upgrade
Bottom Line: The revisions Marin made to the Mount Vision Pro took the more than capable trailbike to the upper echelon of the category. It has race bike-like snap under acceleration, which hides the nearly five inches of travel when hammering in the saddle. The slackened head angle and lower bottom bracket put a rider in complete control when descending, making easy work of technical descents. The Mount Vision is blast to ride whether cruising fire road or cresting granny gear switchbacks, and in the hands of a capable rider, its spot on spec will handle whatever’s throw this Mount Vision’s way.
(Specs below photo)
MARIN MOUNT VISION PRO Price...$5999
Country of origin...Taiwan
Weight...27.7 pounds
Hotline…www.marinbikes.com
Frame tested...Medium
Bottom bracket height...13.6"
Chainstay length...16.5"
Top tube length...23.3"
Head angle...67.5°
Seat tube angle...71.5°
Standover height...30.5"
Wheelbase...43”
Suspension travel (front)...4.7"
Suspension travel (rear)...4.7"
Frame material...Aluminum, carbon swingarm
Fork... Fox 32 F120 RLC
Shock…Fox Shox RP23
Rims... Mavic XC 717
Tires...WTB MotoRaptor Race (2.24”)
Hubs...DT 240S
Brakes...Shimano XTR
Brake levers...Shimano XTR
Crankset...Shimano XTR
Shifters... Shimano LX
Rear derailleur...Shimano XTR
Chainrings...Shimano XTR (44/32/22)
Cassette...Shimano XTR (11-34)
Pedals...Weighted with Shimano XTR