Description
The Marin DSX 1 Gravel Bike — Lighter, Stiffer, More Capable
The Marin DSX 1 gravel bike is a meaningful step up from the entry-level DSX. It keeps everything that makes the DSX great — versatile geometry, chunky tyres, and powerful hydraulic brakes. However, it adds a stiffer Series 3 frame, a full carbon fork, and a Shimano CUES drivetrain. As a result, you get a bike that feels noticeably more refined on both road and trail. Whether you’re commuting daily, exploring gravel paths, or building towards longer off-road adventures, the DSX 1 delivers the performance to match your ambitions.
Series 3 Aluminium Frame — Stiffer and More Refined
The DSX 1 rides on a Series 3 DSX 6061 aluminium frame. This is a step above the Series 2 frame found on the base DSX. The tapered head tube and relieved bottom bracket shell add stiffness exactly where it matters. Internal cable routing keeps the build clean throughout. Mudguard and rack mounts come as standard. Furthermore, flat-mount disc tabs and a 142x12mm thru-axle dropout deliver a modern, secure wheel interface.
The full Marin carbon fork with a tapered steerer and 12mm thru-axle is a significant upgrade over a steel fork. Carbon reduces weight at the front end. It also absorbs vibration from rough surfaces. Consequently, longer rides on mixed terrain feel noticeably more comfortable. Fender eyelets carry over too, so fitting mudguards remains simple and straightforward.
Shimano CUES 1×10 — Smart, Reliable Gearing
The DSX 1 runs a Shimano CUES U6000 1×10-speed drivetrain. Shimano CUES is a modern, interconnected groupset designed specifically for everyday cycling and trail riding. The clutch-equipped rear derailleur keeps the chain firmly in place on rough terrain. Therefore, dropped chains become far less likely on bumpy gravel paths and woodland trails.
A 42T narrow-wide chainring pairs with a Shimano CUES 11-48T cassette. This gives a wide, versatile gear range. You get the low gears needed for steep climbs, as well as enough top-end speed for road riding and fast gravel sections. Moreover, the clean 1x cockpit means there are no front derailleur decisions to make — just shift and ride.
Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes — Flat-Mount and Powerful
The Tektro HD-R285 flat-mount hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors deliver excellent stopping power in all conditions. Flat-mount brakes offer a cleaner, more integrated look than traditional post-mount systems. They also save a small amount of weight. Hydraulic operation means consistent, powerful braking in wet and muddy UK weather. Consequently, you can ride with confidence whatever the conditions.
WTB Riddler Tyres on Solid Wheels
The DSX 1 rolls on WTB Riddler 700x45mm tyres. These are a strong all-terrain choice. They roll efficiently on tarmac yet grip confidently when the surface turns to gravel or loose trail. The double-wall Marin aluminium rims use a 21mm internal width, paired with forged alloy thru-axle hubs front and rear. As a result, the wheels are stiff, reliable, and well-suited to mixed-terrain riding day after day.
Cockpit Designed for Trail Control
The Marin MiniRiser handlebar places your hands in a natural, upright position. This suits gravel and trail riding particularly well. It’s a mountain-bike-influenced approach that works especially well for riders coming from off-road backgrounds. A Marin 3D forged alloy stem, MTB grips, and a 27.2mm alloy seatpost complete a capable, no-nonsense cockpit setup. The FSA No.42 ACB sealed cartridge headset ensures long-term reliability without regular maintenance.
Dropper Post Ready — Upgrade When You’re Ready
The DSX 1 is dropper post compatible straight out of the box. This is a notable feature at this price point. When you’re ready to tackle more technical terrain, fitting a dropper post opens up a whole new level of trail confidence. You don’t need to buy a new bike — simply upgrade when the time is right.
Who Is the Marin DSX 1 For?
The Marin DSX 1 gravel bike suits riders who want to step up from entry-level adventure bikes. It works especially well for commuters wanting hydraulic brakes and a lighter, carbon-forked build, gravel riders upgrading from a mechanical or steel-forked bike, trail riders who want drop-bar versatility with mountain bike-style control, and anyone seeking a dropper-post-ready platform for future progression.
