Wow, thanks! I really appreciate the kind words!

Appreciate that. Thank you.

Thanks, I appreciate the positive feedback!

Good eye, not sure I recognized that.

I'm with you which is probably why I was surprised every time I heard from customers saying the color was the one thing they really didn't like... it's like the cilantro of colors.

This color is more red than brown. You should check it out in person.

Thanks for sharing. Glad to hear I wasn't the only fan of the brown version 😉

We often recommend an ergonomic grip with bar ends for riders looking for a way to make longer rides more comfortable on their hands. As for bar width, I like the wide bars for when the temptation to ride singletrack hits... but for those who do longer rides on less technical terrain, cutting bars down can be a good option.

thanks. good note

That is a difficult one to answer. I think the dsx 1 and 2 have components that work well, so the 3 isn't doing anything those don't do. However, for a rider who really appreciates that special tactile feel of higher end components and the anticipated weight savings, the DSX 3 is a relative bargain compared to the few flat bar gravel upspec'd offerings out there.

I must admit that I have a strong preference for the geometry of the DSX but that is likely related to my primary bike being a mountain bike. If you test rode both bikes and preferred the feel of the Trek then that would obviously change perspective for you. I notice other things, like the use of traditional quick release wheels on the Trek compared to the DSX 2 and 3 having thru-axles. I find the thru-axles minimize flex which in turn minimizes the likelihood of brakes rubbing on rotors. The Trek also has a carbon frame / but at a price roughly $1000 more. If you liked the ride feel of the Trek and the looks really appealed (enough to make up for the price) then the Trek would be good. If you preferred the DSX and keeping a pile of money in your pocket... Oh, and the Marin has a much broader range of gears which I think is a practical advantage.

Hi, I would suggest a test ride of each. There are a number of factors that make it hard to say which would be more comfortable and that affect the bike's overall personality. The Trek has a higher front end (usually nice if comfort, rather than being in a powerful position is the goal), but also has a longer stem (the opposite as far as comfort is concerned). As counter-intuitive as it may seem, a longer reach with taller bars, from my own experience, seems to cause lower back strain. Between the fatter 27.5 / thinner 700c wheels, I think that is something you might be drawn to either one's characteristics during a test ride. Of additional not, the Trek's rear end is quite long in comparison to the DSX - you may not pinpoint that in a test ride but they will make a difference regarding how the bike behaves and which gives you the sensation you're more happy with. As a practical thing, notice the difference in gear ranges on the 2 bikes. The Marin gives you a better hill climbing (low) gear. Even pay attention to esthetics - what is more exciting to you. I don't think, between these two bikes that one is necessarily better than the other, it is more which one suits your needs and wants as far as comfort and feel.

It could be an easy tubeless setup. I'm always a bit shy to recommend that unless a rim is specifically considered tubeless just in case it turns into a pile of frustration for someone.

I think it would work. It would be worth test riding at least. Depending on your preferences for fit, you may want to consider handlebars with some rise or changing the stem length but I think you just fit within the size range intended for an XL with your specific leg/torso/arm measurements perhaps being the difference between it working or not.

Most likely an XL. It is our typical suggestion at 6'1", but especially relevant with your shorter legs - meaning you have a relatively long torso so needing a bit more horizontal room between seat and handlebars.

Today I measured sizes M and L with my height of 5.9. Even though Marin suggests size M, I felt better in L. Maybe it's the result of many years spent on MTB, but the smaller size pushed me too far above the front wheel. By the way, it's a pity they changed the painting 😞

@@BikeBrosBikeShop I'm 5'6 with a 30.5 inch inseam which size do you think would work well for me?

Yes, made in Indonesia.

Tq for the information 🙏👍