For years, my fatbike was my go-to rig. It got me through a lot. But in 2023, things changed. I was back at square one with my neuropathy—numbness in my hands, extreme burning in my thighs, and now, new symptoms: arm spasms strong enough to jerk me awake at night.
I tried to adapt. I went into my local bike shop looking for bigger ergonomic grips to relieve the pressure. I got to talking with the owner about my fatbike and all the tweaks I’d made to keep riding. That’s when he looked at me and said, “You’ve got a kind of odd setup here.”
My response? “I like odd.”
That’s when he pointed me toward the Marin Stinson 1.
First Impressions
I walked over to it and saw my last name on the frame—Stinson. Seemed like a sign. I threw a leg over it, adjusted the saddle, and… it just fit. Like it was built for me. It was upright, stable, and comfortable right out of the gate. The 1×7 drivetrain meant simplicity, and the black-to-grey fade on the frame just looked clean. SOLD. I added the biggest ergonomic grips they had, and I was rolling out with a new ride.
Why a Comfort/City Bike Works Better for Me Now
Switching from a trail-focused fatbike to a comfort/city bike might seem like a step down to some riders—but if you’re dealing with physical challenges like neuropathy, disc degeneration, or chronic pain, it’s actually a step forward.
Here’s why:
- Upright riding position: This alone is a game-changer. Less pressure on the hands, wrists, and shoulders. More comfort for the back. It helps me ride longer without triggering burning thighs or hand numbness.
- Lower step-over height: Easy on and off. No awkward leg swings or stress on the spine.
- Stable, relaxed geometry: The Stinson 1 is built for control. No twitchy handling. Just smooth cruising.
- Wider tires with lower pressure: They soak up road buzz and vibrations. Less jarring = fewer spasms and more comfort.
- Ergonomic contact points: Swapping in the right grips and saddle turned this into a bike I want to ride.
What Makes the Marin Stinson 1 Stand Out
- Series 1 aluminum frame – lightweight but strong, with that signature Marin comfort geometry.
- 27.5 wheels with 2.35” tires – not quite fatbike wide, but plenty plush for streets, paths, and rougher shortcuts.
- Shimano Tourney 1×7 drivetrain – simple, reliable, no front derailleur to mess with.
- Mechanical disc brakes – solid stopping power in any weather.
- Relaxed cockpit – wide handlebars, upright stem, and lots of adjustability to dial in the perfect fit.
It’s not flashy. It’s not aggressive. But that’s exactly the point.
Final Thoughts
This bike doesn’t just work—it works with me. I’ve got a body that throws curveballs. The Marin Stinson 1 helps me stay in the saddle without paying for it later. That’s a win in my book.
And yeah, maybe it’s a little odd.
But so am I.