The Pine Mountain is Marin's new big-wheeled, steel single-speed, hard-tail entry for 2009. A comprehensive and insightful review is inside... ---
Words & photos by Steve Rossi
Big Wide Bars Comfy Saddle 4130 Cromoly Frame Big Wheels RockShox Reba AND ONE GEAR!!!
The Pine Mountain is Marins big-wheeled, steel single-speed, hard-tail entry for 2009. The frame, made from 4130 Cromoly, is very responsive and provides a nice and supple roll. The Reba compliments the frame well, and smooths out the trail nicely. With its quick and easy to reach lock-out, the locked-out Reba provides the necessary stiffness for climbing, especially with only one gear. The 29 inch wheels stick to the ground very nicely while climbing, cornering and braking. Depending on chain length, the eccentric bottom bracket can make a significant difference in handling characteristics. If adjusted to the top side of the EBB shell, there is notably more ground clearance and slightly less cornering stability. While adjusting the EBB to the bottom side adds to stability, but results in less ground clearance.
Enjoying the perceived purity of a 29er, singlespeed DH run...
And the inevitable climb back up.
The Avid Juicy 3 hydraulic binders provide plenty of stopping power, but the modulation leaves something to be desired. The need for light braking only requires light pressure on the lever. While any increase in braking need requires exponential lever pressure. The Juicy 3s certainly get the job done, but even a less expensive mechanical brake (such as a BB7) provides better modulation.
The Pine Mountain and its pilot
The Pine Mountain comes equipped with real pedals (Shimano M520). While they are not top of the line, they function well and are a lot nicer than some cheapo plastic flat pedal, like most single speeds come specd with. The stock gearing is also a plus. The 32x20 seems to be the norm for most 29 SS riders. It is a great gear to be able to ride most all terrain with. The WTB Prowler SL Folding 29x2.1 tires do a fine job of connecting with the terrain. I was able to run them (tubed) at real low pressure with no rolling or pinching issues. And they hooked-up great! The WTB LaserDisc Lite Wheels felt very light and plenty stiff. The Pine Mountain is not exactly a bantam weight at 26.5 pounds (on my scale) but getting the big machine going and climbing felt great, compared to its overall girth. This can be attributed mainly to the light and nimble LaserDisc Lite wheels. The WTB Laser V Comp saddle (with Love Channel) was incredibly comfy. A brief stint was had on the bike by my female co-tester, and she too thought highly of the saddle comfort. And another nice touch is the FSA SL-K Carbon seat post. Just a little more icing on the spec package
Big wheels make for a fast ride
The Pine Mountain has a great feel to it. It is very responsive and spins-up quickly, for a big wheeled rig. Cornering, climbing, and general handling are very nice. It is a great ride and is true to the steel is real adage. Draw backs: At $1785 USD, you are paying for the added bonuses like the pedals and seat post and pimpn parts. The weight is also a bit of a concern. While it is not a tank and doesnt feel all of its pounds (while underway), it could easily shed a few. And the brakes do leave a bit to be desired. Outside of being a little heavy on currency & weight, and a little light on brake feel this reviewer loved the ride!
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