Description
The Marin DSX 2 Gravel Bike — Shimano Deore Performance, Adventure Ready
The Marin DSX 2 sits at the heart of the DSX range. It builds on the strong foundations of the DSX 1 and adds a Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless-compatible wheels. As a result, this is the DSX model that opens the door to serious gravel riding, bikepacking, and all-terrain adventure. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend escape or tackling a muddy commute, the DSX 2 handles it without hesitation.
Series 3 Aluminium Frame With Bikepacking Mounts
The DSX 2 centres on a Series 3 DSX 6061 aluminium frame. It shares the same stiff, refined platform as the DSX 1. The tapered head tube and relieved bottom bracket shell deliver a responsive, confident ride feel. Internal cable routing keeps everything clean. Mudguard and rack mounts sit on the frame as standard. Flat-mount disc tabs and a 142x12mm thru-axle complete a modern, secure setup.
The full Marin carbon fork with a tapered steerer and 12mm thru-axle is a key part of the DSX 2’s character. Carbon reduces weight at the front end. It also absorbs trail vibration effectively. Consequently, long days in the saddle feel less punishing. Fender eyelets are built in too, so mudguard fitting is simple. Furthermore, the fork carries multiple mounting points for bikepacking bags and accessories — ideal for riders planning loaded adventures.
Shimano Deore 1×12 — Wide Range, Smooth Shifting
The DSX 2 runs a Shimano Deore 1×12-speed drivetrain. Deore is one of Shimano’s most respected mid-range groupsets. It offers smooth, reliable shifting across 12 gears. A 42T narrow-wide chainring pairs with a Shimano Deore 10-51T cassette. This is an enormous gear range. It handles the steepest climbs and the fastest descents equally well. Moreover, the 1x setup simplifies the cockpit considerably. There’s no front derailleur to manage. Instead, you can focus entirely on the terrain ahead.
The KMC X12 chain is a reliable, durable choice. It works well with the wide-range cassette and holds up to the demands of mixed-terrain riding day after day.
Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes — Consistent and Powerful
The Shimano BR-MT201/R300 flat-mount hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors deliver strong, predictable stopping power. Shimano hydraulic brakes offer excellent modulation. You can apply braking force precisely, even on long, technical descents. Furthermore, they perform consistently in wet and muddy UK conditions. Flat-mount integration also keeps the overall build cleaner and slightly lighter than traditional post-mount systems.
Tubeless-Compatible Wheels and WTB Riddler Tyres
The DSX 2 steps up to tubeless-compatible double-wall Marin aluminium rims. This is a notable upgrade over the DSX 1. Going tubeless lowers rolling resistance. It also reduces the risk of pinch flats and allows you to run lower tyre pressures for better grip on loose terrain. The wheels use forged alloy thru-axle hubs with 32 spokes each — a solid, durable build for everyday mixed-terrain use.
WTB Riddler 700x45mm tyres complete the rolling package. They roll quickly on tarmac and grip confidently on gravel, mud, and loose surfaces. At 45mm wide, they also smooth out trail chatter and absorb road buzz well. As a result, the DSX 2 rides comfortably across a wide variety of UK surfaces.
Dropper Post Compatible — Ready to Progress
The DSX 2 is dropper post compatible straight out of the box. This is a thoughtful inclusion. When your riding progresses to more technical terrain, a dropper post transforms trail confidence significantly. You don’t need to replace the bike to unlock that capability. Simply fit a dropper post and ride more aggressively.
Who Is the Marin DSX 2 For?
The Marin DSX 2 gravel bike suits riders who want a capable, well-specified adventure machine without paying premium prices. It works especially well for gravel riders wanting Shimano Deore performance and tubeless wheels, bikepacking enthusiasts who need a fork loaded with mounting points, commuters upgrading to Shimano hydraulic braking and 12-speed gearing, and trail riders who plan to add a dropper post as their skills develop.
Order the Marin DSX 2 today and enjoy free UK delivery!
