I can't say I've ridden any of Marin's aluminum hardtails but as a general rule my experience with the new Santa Cruz Chameleon made me rethink the place of an alloy hardtail. Much lighter than the equivalent steel frame that bike danced. Stiff front end but lots of give in the rear. It was not less comfortable than my (admittedly quite stiff) Kona Honzo.
Looking at the super small diameter seat stays I'd want to throw a leg over the Nail Trail before assuming it has the harsh ride of old aluminum hardtails.
Sept. 20, 2017, 3:49 p.m. - Andrew Major
I can't say I've ridden any of Marin's aluminum hardtails but as a general rule my experience with the new Santa Cruz Chameleon made me rethink the place of an alloy hardtail. Much lighter than the equivalent steel frame that bike danced. Stiff front end but lots of give in the rear. It was not less comfortable than my (admittedly quite stiff) Kona Honzo. Looking at the super small diameter seat stays I'd want to throw a leg over the Nail Trail before assuming it has the harsh ride of old aluminum hardtails.