A video from an external video provider is displayed here. YouTube has its own cookies and may collect data on activities. Consent is required to view YouTube videos.
Enable Youtube videosThe Marin Nicasio 3 represents the apex of the Nicasio range. Around its proven SteezyR double-butted chromoly frame and full carbon fork – the same ride platform that made the series famous – Marin has wrapped a dream specification: Novatec G24 carbon wheels, a Shimano GRX 1x11 drivetrain, and matched hydraulic disc brakes. The single-ring setup, built around an FSA Gossamer Pro 42T chainring and a wide-range 11-42T cassette, eliminates the front derailleur entirely for clean looks, lower weight, and effortless maintenance. Powerful Shimano GRX hydraulic brakes with 160mm rotors deliver consistent stopping force in all conditions. The carbon rims' 24mm internal width pairs beautifully with tubeless-friendly Maxxis Reaver 700x45 tires (with EXO casing), giving confident grip and efficient rolling across mixed terrain. Fender and rack eyelets plus a hidden kickstand mount make light work of loaded bikepacking adventures. No lighting ships from the factory, but the multiple frame bosses allow easy installation of front and rear lights whenever you need them.
The name unfolds in two meaningful layers. „Nicasio" honors the scenic Nicasio Valley in northern Marin County, California – a storied destination beloved by endurance roadies and a fitting emblem for the series' down-to-earth, nature-driven character. The digit „3" crowns the range as its third and highest specification tier, identifying the flagship build defined by the 1x11 drivetrain, carbon wheels, and race-oriented rubber. Together the elements declare this model the series' ultimate statement: heritage steel soul, dressed for modern performance.
Where the Nicasio 1 and Nicasio 1 ST offer an affordable gateway with their 2x8 Shimano Claris groupsets and mechanical brakes, and the Nicasio 2 steps up to a mechanical 2x10 GRX setup, the Nicasio 3 charts a radical path with a minimalist 1x11 drivetrain. Dropping the front mech not only cleans up the cockpit but also widens effective range via the 11-42T cassette for serious climbs and fast flats. Uniquely among its siblings, this model ships on feathery Novatec G24 carbon wheelsets and grips the trail with tubeless Maxxis Reaver tires featuring the protective EXO casing. In short, the Nicasio 3 packages every meaningful performance upgrade the series has to offer while preserving the plush, loyal steel ride – built for riders ready to leave entry-level compromises behind.
The Nicasio 3 is engineered for cyclists who want one bicycle capable of wearing many hats: spirited gravel rides, multi-day bikepacking crossings, everyday city commutes, and the occasional brisk group excursion. The sturdy chromoly frame absorbs cargo loads with ease, while the carbon wheels and GRX drivetrain sharpen acceleration, handling, and shifting precision. Unlike the entry-focused cycling Nicasio siblings that primarily court beginners and utility riders, this range-topper appeals to performance-minded enthusiasts who demand light wheels, slick shifting, and generous tire clearance up to 45mm – without surrendering the signature comfort of steel. For night rides, the frame and fork offer generous mounting points for retrofitting a complete lighting setup.
Marin Nicasio 1 ST
