This! I picked up a 2019 Marlin 7 and rode it stock for a year, second year upgraded to a recon rl air fork (that I got a sweet deal on) and a dropper post. Found the limits on my local trail network and last season upgraded to a fuel ex 8. The Marlin will stay in my garage as a backup/bike packing bike or as a loaner to get other people into the sport.

My partner has a Marlin 6 and it’s held up really well over the same time frame.

The biggest thing for me (being a bigger dude) is the fact that finding high quality wheel sets on a QR axle has been rough for me.

The steerer tube will also hold you back if you are looking to upgrade in the future. The 2019 has a straight steerer unsure if that’s changed.

TL;DR the Marlin series is a great entry level bike to get you a year or two into the sport to see if it’s something you’re going to enjoy but you will find it’s limits all the same between a 5-7 imo. Just plan on upgrading to something more a couple of years down the line.