Hopping up to a higher-spec Series 3 aluminum frame, the Marin DSX 1 has a whole heap of upgrades over the base spec version. Bolt-thru axles add stiffness and a carbon fork drops the weight and adds even more mounting points for bikepacking bags. There’s also an 11-speed 1X Shimano Deore drivetrain, WTB Riddler tires, Tektro hydraulic brakes and plenty of reliable Marin components.

Key upgrades from DSX:

• Series 3 aluminum frame w/thru axles
• Full carbon fiber fork
• Wide-range Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes