Presently I am using MTB Fuji Nevada 4.0 (26" M size) since past 3 years. I am planning to buy another bike (not a road bike). I have shortlisted Marin San Rafael DS3 (700X40C M size). But I have certain doubts to clear.

1. Quality of Marin (California) Bikes.
2. The Crankset of Fuji is 42/34/24T and Cassette is 11-32T (8-speed) whereas that of DS3 is 48/36/26T & 12-36T (9-speed) respectively. I have not much idea about the consequences of going from lower gear ratio to higher gear ratio. Will higher gear ratio need more power? Will higher gear ratio result into more/less speed with same power in both bikes?
3. DS3 has MTB tires. Is it possible that I replace it with narrow tires and get the benefit of a hybrid bike?

Need help.

Thanks.

Thread moved from Introductions to Mountain Biking with 3 day forwarding.

1. sure its not junk, dont know beyond that.

2. The new bike actually has a very slightly lower low than the old bike because of the 36t on the cassette. Also a slightly higher high because of the 48t ring. 9 speed over 8 keeps ratios closer. Win, win win. Just supply money

3. Mostly, Probably a little heavier and suspension forks you may not need.


ETA what I said about gearing is true for gear ratios. Bigger wheels on the new bike would raise the ultimate gearing a slight amount. Still nothing to worry about. Changing to 700-32 or 700 28 road tires would lower it back a little.

Thanks kzin for your input.