What Is The Best Mountain Bike Under $500?
In this mountain bike under $500 review, our team thoroughly compared build quality, ease of assembly, downhill performance, climbing performance, enjoyment and value for money for multiple products. After hours of research and testing, we recommend the Schwinn Bonafide as the best mountain bike under $500 on the market.
10. Co-op DRT 1.1
Mountain Bike Under $500 Reviews
Schwinn was founded in 1895, and to this day, is still making some of the best outdoor and indoor bikes on the market. The brand’s mission is “to develop bicycles that allow people to experience the confidence and freedom that comes from riding a bike.” They’ve sure done that.
The Schwinn Bonafide features an in-house suspension fork that soaks up every little bump and is coupled with a lightweight aluminum frame that provides the perfect combination for comfortable and safe riding. Front and rear mechanical disc brakes are the icing on the cake for the Schwinn Bonafide.
The Shimano shifting is a delight to use, and you really notice the effortless shifting, especially on more rugged terrain. You’ll also get high-profile “double-walled” knobby tires, giving beginners the confidence they need to tackle rough trails. It’s tough to go past this bike.
At a glance
The Schwinn Bonafide is ideal for beginners or slightly experienced riders who want to purchase a bike with a proven name. Schwinn has been building bikes since 1895, so they must be doing something right. You can’t go wrong with the Bonafide.
Schwinn was founded in 1895, and to this day, is still making some of the best outdoor and indoor bikes on the market. The brand’s mission is “to develop bicycles that allow people to experience the confidence and freedom that comes from riding a bike.” They’ve sure done that.
The Schwinn Bonafide features an in-house suspension fork that soaks up every little bump and is coupled with a lightweight aluminum frame that provides the perfect combination for comfortable and safe riding. Front and rear mechanical disc brakes are the icing on the cake for the Schwinn Bonafide.
The Shimano shifting is a delight to use, and you really notice the effortless shifting, especially on more rugged terrain. You’ll also get high-profile “double-walled” knobby tires, giving beginners the confidence they need to tackle rough trails. It’s tough to go past this bike.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- Aluminum
- Frame Sizes Available
- 17
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 29
- Suspension
- Crankset
- Alloy crank
- Drivetrain
- 3x8 Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters
- Tires
- 29x2.25
- Brakes
- Disc - Mechanical
- Weight
- 44
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- One of the biggest names in the industry
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- 24-speed shifting perfect for all rider levels
- Double alloy cranks
- The bike comes fully assembled
Cons
- Only available in one color
Mongoose has been making high-quality bikes for decades and recently has ventured into manufacturing “fat bikes,” which are all the craze. The Mongoose Malus fat tire bike has a WOW factor that is hard to pass.
Compared to traditional rim brakes, the bike comes equipped with mechanical disc brakes, which provide consistent stopping power, especially in wet conditions. Couple that with 4-inch wide tires, and you’re ready to hit the most extreme tracks.
The Mongoose Malus has a Shimano drivetrain and rear derailleur, making shifting silky smooth and, more importantly, reliable. If you want something a little bit different at an affordable price, surpassing the Mongoose Malus is pretty hard.
At a glance
The Mongoose Malus is perfect for riders who want to stand out from the crowd on the trails. Fat bikes are made for bumpy conditions and give beginner riders plenty of confidence when tackling some of the more extreme tracks. If you like chilling out, the Mongoose Malus is for you!
Mongoose has been making high-quality bikes for decades and recently has ventured into manufacturing “fat bikes,” which are all the craze. The Mongoose Malus fat tire bike has a WOW factor that is hard to pass.
Compared to traditional rim brakes, the bike comes equipped with mechanical disc brakes, which provide consistent stopping power, especially in wet conditions. Couple that with 4-inch wide tires, and you’re ready to hit the most extreme tracks.
The Mongoose Malus has a Shimano drivetrain and rear derailleur, making shifting silky smooth and, more importantly, reliable. If you want something a little bit different at an affordable price, surpassing the Mongoose Malus is pretty hard.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Fat Tire, Rigid
- Frame Material
- Alloy Steel
- Frame Sizes Available
- 18
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 26
- Suspension
- n/a
- Crankset
- Aluminum
- Drivetrain
- 7
- Tires
- 26x4
- Brakes
- Disc - Mechanical
- Weight
- 43
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- 4-inch wide tires
- WOW, factor off the charts
- Reputable longstanding bike brand
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Shimano drivetrain
Cons
- Fat bikes are not for everyone, but you will turn heads
The Vilano Blackjack is a hand-built lightweight mountain bike that should cost a lot more than $500. Using handcrafted alloy, the bike is light, durable, and offers a comfortable riding experience. The suspension allows you to roll over most obstacles easily, and the 80 mm of travel provides extra comfort, which is always nice.
The Vilano Blackjack comes equipped with mechanical disc brakes, which provide outstanding stopping power time and time again, especially in wet and muddy conditions. Double-wall alloy tires make the perfect addition to the disc brakes and allow riders to tackle the toughest of trails with confidence.
The Vilano Blackjack is a little tricky to assemble, so I recommend taking it to your local bike shop for an expert setup.
At a glance
As with most bikes on this list, the Vilano Blackjack makes the ideal choice for beginners or those looking for a comfortable ride without spending the big bucks. The Vilano Blackjack is also an excellent option for those riders wanting to buy a “spare” or backup bike.
The Vilano Blackjack is a hand-built lightweight mountain bike that should cost a lot more than $500. Using handcrafted alloy, the bike is light, durable, and offers a comfortable riding experience. The suspension allows you to roll over most obstacles easily, and the 80 mm of travel provides extra comfort, which is always nice.
The Vilano Blackjack comes equipped with mechanical disc brakes, which provide outstanding stopping power time and time again, especially in wet and muddy conditions. Double-wall alloy tires make the perfect addition to the disc brakes and allow riders to tackle the toughest of trails with confidence.
The Vilano Blackjack is a little tricky to assemble, so I recommend taking it to your local bike shop for an expert setup.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- 6061 Aluminum Alloy
- Frame Sizes Available
- 17
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 29
- Suspension
- 80mm travel
- Crankset
- Alloy Triple 42/34/24
- Drivetrain
- 3x8
- Tires
- 29x2.1
- Brakes
- Disc - Mechanical
- Weight
- 30
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Hand-built Hardtail frame
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Suspension fork with 80mm of travel
- MTB black seat post
- Double wall alloy rims
Cons
- The styling is a little outdated
The Gravity FSX is a dual-suspension mountain bike made from hydroformed aluminum tubes, which help to make the frame stronger and lighter. The bike also comes fully equipped with SunTour long travel preloaded and adjustable suspension attached to the downtube.
Shifting hasn’t been overlooked, with the Gravity FSX boasting a Shimano 24-speed drivetrain for smooth shifting, even on rugged trails. A neat little feature is the replaceable rear derailleur hanger.
The Gravity FSX has front and rear disc brakes and mechanical alloy calipers, meaning their light, durable, and provide consistent braking in wet and muddy conditions.
At a glance
The Gravity FSX is the perfect option for those riders who are looking for a full-suspension mountain bike.
The Gravity FSX is a dual-suspension mountain bike made from hydroformed aluminum tubes, which help to make the frame stronger and lighter. The bike also comes fully equipped with SunTour long travel preloaded and adjustable suspension attached to the downtube.
Shifting hasn’t been overlooked, with the Gravity FSX boasting a Shimano 24-speed drivetrain for smooth shifting, even on rugged trails. A neat little feature is the replaceable rear derailleur hanger.
The Gravity FSX has front and rear disc brakes and mechanical alloy calipers, meaning their light, durable, and provide consistent braking in wet and muddy conditions.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Dual Suspension
- Frame Material
- Custom Formed TIG Welded 6061 Aluminum
- Frame Sizes Available
- 15-21
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 26
- Suspension
- SunTour long travel
- Crankset
- SunTour, aluminum arms, Powershift Rings 22/32/42T
- Drivetrain
- Shimano ST-EF51 24 SPD, EZ Fire Trigger
- Tires
- MultiTread 26x2.1
- Brakes
- Tektro Novela mechanical disc 160mm rotors
- Weight
- 27
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Robust aluminum frame
- Shimnano shifters
- Front and rear adjustable suspension
- Light yet durable rims
- Quick release wheels
Cons
- Need to be fully assembled before riding
Marin has garnered somewhat of a “cult-like” following in recent years, with many of its loyal customers admitting to never riding on another mountain bike brand, EVER. Looking at the Marin Palisades Trail 2, it’s easy to see why their customers are so loyal.
First off, the bike just looks like it should cost thousands of dollars, so seeing it in this price range is a massive tick. The Marin Palisades Trail 2 comes fully equipped with a Shimano drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and 100mm of travel with preloaded adjustment.
The bike handles, shifts, and stops like a bike in a higher price bracket making the Marin Palisades Trail 2 one heck of a bargain. Simply put, this bike rides way above its retail price.
At a glance
According to Marin, the Palisades Trail 2 “is an excellent bike for the newer rider, or for one who is moving over to trail riding.” If you’re after an affordable mountain bike from one of the best brands in the world, the Marin Palisades Trail 2 is for you.
Marin has garnered somewhat of a “cult-like” following in recent years, with many of its loyal customers admitting to never riding on another mountain bike brand, EVER. Looking at the Marin Palisades Trail 2, it’s easy to see why their customers are so loyal.
First off, the bike just looks like it should cost thousands of dollars, so seeing it in this price range is a massive tick. The Marin Palisades Trail 2 comes fully equipped with a Shimano drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and 100mm of travel with preloaded adjustment.
The bike handles, shifts, and stops like a bike in a higher price bracket making the Marin Palisades Trail 2 one heck of a bargain. Simply put, this bike rides way above its retail price.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- Series 2 6061 Aluminum
- Frame Sizes Available
- 16-19
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 27.5
- Suspension
- RockShox Judy Silver TK fork, 100mm travel
- Crankset
- Shimano Altus MT101, 36/22T
- Drivetrain
- Shimano Altus, 2x9 Speed
- Tires
- WTB Trailboss Comp, 27.5x2.25”, Wire Bead
- Brakes
- Tektro M275 Hydraulic Disc
- Weight
- not stated
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
- Shimano cassette and rear derailleur
- World's leading RockShox suspension
- Full external housing
- Three sizes, S, M, L
Cons
- Only one color is available, although it does resemble a cool-looking Red Bull Can
The ideal combination of performance, style, and durability, the Marin Bolinas makes the ideal addition to any rider’s garage. Whether you are new to mountain biking or want a second bike, it’s tough to go past the Bolinas.
The Bolinas offers riders high-end components at a fraction of the cost, like mechanical disc brakes, Suntour suspension, and a Shimano drivetrain. The components on the Bolinas make it the ideal bike for riders who are starting to get more serious about the trails they ride.
The Marin Bolinas comes in three sizes, small, medium, and large, so riders of all shapes can easily find a comfortable riding position. Depending on which size you purchase, the Bolinas comes equipped with either 27.5-inch tires to larger ones for the L-size model.
At a glance
Perfect for riders looking for a combination of performance and affordability and riders new to riding the trails. If you’re after an affordable mountain bike from a prominent brand, give the Marin Bolinas a go; you won’t be disappointed.
The ideal combination of performance, style, and durability, the Marin Bolinas makes the ideal addition to any rider’s garage. Whether you are new to mountain biking or want a second bike, it’s tough to go past the Bolinas.
The Bolinas offers riders high-end components at a fraction of the cost, like mechanical disc brakes, Suntour suspension, and a Shimano drivetrain. The components on the Bolinas make it the ideal bike for riders who are starting to get more serious about the trails they ride.
The Marin Bolinas comes in three sizes, small, medium, and large, so riders of all shapes can easily find a comfortable riding position. Depending on which size you purchase, the Bolinas comes equipped with either 27.5-inch tires to larger ones for the L-size model.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- Series 1 6061 Aluminum
- Frame Sizes Available
- 13-19
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 27.5
- Suspension
- SR/Suntour XCM DS, 100mm Travel
- Crankset
- Alloy Crank, Steel Chainrings, 42/34/24T
- Drivetrain
- Shimano Altus 3x8-Speed
- Tires
- MTB, 27.5/29x2.25
- Brakes
- Clark's Clout Hydraulic Disc, 160mm Rotor
- Weight
- not stated
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Shimano Altus 3x8 drivetrain
- Clark's hydraulic disc brakes
- SR/Suntour XCM DS fork
- Reputable leading bike brand
- Series 1 6061 aluminum frame
Cons
- The paintwork design is pretty basic
The Polygon Premier 4 comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes as opposed to mechanical disc brakes found on most other bike brands and models in this price range. The drivetrain won’t let you down either, as the Shimano rear derailleur performs exactly as you’d expect the world’s most famous bike component manufacturer to do.
The bike comes in three sizes, small, medium, and large, meaning that riders of pretty much any shape and size should be able to find a comfortable riding position. Although the Polygon Premier 4 only comes in one paint color, in my opinion, it’s the coolest-looking bike on the list with its grey, black, and orange accents.
While it may not be the most well-known brand on the market, Polygon is quickly becoming known for producing affordable mountain bikes that are durable, stylish, and safe.
At a glance
The Polygon Premier 4 is a bike that, for its price, comes jam-packed with high-quality components. If you’re an experienced rider looking for an excellent alternative to the more expensive models, I highly recommend giving the Polygon Premier 4 a go.
The Polygon Premier 4 comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes as opposed to mechanical disc brakes found on most other bike brands and models in this price range. The drivetrain won’t let you down either, as the Shimano rear derailleur performs exactly as you’d expect the world’s most famous bike component manufacturer to do.
The bike comes in three sizes, small, medium, and large, meaning that riders of pretty much any shape and size should be able to find a comfortable riding position. Although the Polygon Premier 4 only comes in one paint color, in my opinion, it’s the coolest-looking bike on the list with its grey, black, and orange accents.
While it may not be the most well-known brand on the market, Polygon is quickly becoming known for producing affordable mountain bikes that are durable, stylish, and safe.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- Alutech XC Sport Frame
- Frame Sizes Available
- 16-20
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 27.5/29
- Suspension
- Suntour XCM 120mm TRAVEL
- Crankset
- Alloy crank 36/22T, 170MM
- Drivetrain
- Shimano Altus SL-M315, 2x8-Speed trigger
- Tires
- 27.5/29x2.25
- Brakes
- Disc - Hydraulic
- Weight
- not stated
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Upright design for a comfortable ride
- Durable alloy frame
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- 2X8 speed
- Alloy double-wall tires
Cons
- Only available in one color
Do you want exceptional performance and value? Of course, you do; that’s why you should seriously consider the Rockhopper 29 from Specialized. The Rockhopper offers riders quality components and build quality at a low price in a way that only Specialized can.
The frame is made from Premium A1 aluminum, which has been hydroformed, making the frame incredibly light yet durable. The 2X8 Shimano drivetrain is perfect for all types of trails and terrain, and shifting is as seamless as ever. One feature I like is the internal routing of the cables, which helps to give the bike a sleek and modern look.
The dead reliable hubs from Formula are 25mm in diameter and paired with hookless Stout rims for a light, robust, stylish combination. Perhaps the biggest plus is that the Rockhopper has that world-class Specialized pedigree.
At a glance
If you want to purchase a bike from a reputable brand, look no further than Specialized. Perfect for riders looking to make the jump from the blacktop to the trails on a limited budget but who also don’t want to compromise on quality and components.
Do you want exceptional performance and value? Of course, you do; that’s why you should seriously consider the Rockhopper 29 from Specialized. The Rockhopper offers riders quality components and build quality at a low price in a way that only Specialized can.
The frame is made from Premium A1 aluminum, which has been hydroformed, making the frame incredibly light yet durable. The 2X8 Shimano drivetrain is perfect for all types of trails and terrain, and shifting is as seamless as ever. One feature I like is the internal routing of the cables, which helps to give the bike a sleek and modern look.
The dead reliable hubs from Formula are 25mm in diameter and paired with hookless Stout rims for a light, robust, stylish combination. Perhaps the biggest plus is that the Rockhopper has that world-class Specialized pedigree.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- Specialized A1 premium butted alloy
- Frame Sizes Available
- 16-19
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 29
- Suspension
- SR Suntour XCE 29, 90/100mm travel
- Crankset
- Stout 2x, forged alloy
- Drivetrain
- microSHIFT, TS39-8R, 2x8-speed
- Tires
- Fast Trak Sport, 29x2.35
- Brakes
- Radius CX7, mechanical disc, 160mm
- Weight
- not stated
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Simple shifting with a durable 1x MicroSHIFT drivetrain
- Radius CX7 mechanical disc brakes
- Hookless Stout rims
- SR Suntour XCM with custom Multi-Circuit damping
- Available in 4 colors
Cons
- The design is a little outdated but still a classic, in my opinion
It’s hard to go past the Cannondale Trail 8 when it comes to bikes on this list. Cannondale is right up there with the most famous brands like Trek and Specialized and offers riders a wide range of mountain and road bikes across all price brackets.
The Cannondale Trail 8 is manufactured using Cannondales SmartForm C3 alloy, making the bike light and durable. One of my favorite features on the Trail 8 is the internal cables which give the bike an expensive look but, more importantly, help protect the cables.
Tektro mechanical disc brakes offer riders excellent and consistent stopping power, while the WTB Ranger tires provide all the traction you need. This combination of brakes and tires makes this bike safe and fun to ride.
The Cannondale Trail 8 is equipped with Suntour suspension and a Shimano drivetrain, meaning you get consistent shifting and a smooth and comfy ride.
At a glance
The Cannondale Trail 8 is ideal for those riders looking to purchase a bike from a reputable and long standing brand. Cannondale has some of the highest standards in the industry and offers riders peace of mind and confidence out on the trails. The Trail 8 is a great buy!!
It’s hard to go past the Cannondale Trail 8 when it comes to bikes on this list. Cannondale is right up there with the most famous brands like Trek and Specialized and offers riders a wide range of mountain and road bikes across all price brackets.
The Cannondale Trail 8 is manufactured using Cannondales SmartForm C3 alloy, making the bike light and durable. One of my favorite features on the Trail 8 is the internal cables which give the bike an expensive look but, more importantly, help protect the cables.
Tektro mechanical disc brakes offer riders excellent and consistent stopping power, while the WTB Ranger tires provide all the traction you need. This combination of brakes and tires makes this bike safe and fun to ride.
The Cannondale Trail 8 is equipped with Suntour suspension and a Shimano drivetrain, meaning you get consistent shifting and a smooth and comfy ride.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- SmartForm C3 Alloy
- Frame Sizes Available
- 13-21
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 29
- Suspension
- SR Suntour M3030, 75mm
- Crankset
- Prowheel, 36/22
- Drivetrain
- microSHIFT, 7-speed
- Tires
- WTB Ranger Comp, 29x2.25
- Brakes
- Disc - Mechanical
- Weight
- not stated
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- SmartForm C3 alloy frame
- Semi-integrated headset for a sleek look.
- Tektro mechanical disc brakes for superior stopping
- Correct tire options on all size models
- Internal cable routing helps protect from wear and tear
Cons
- Only available in two color options
10. Co-op DRT 1.1
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is a heavy hitter when it comes to the quality of components you get on a bike in this price range. The SR Sun tour suspension comes with 100 mm of travel, providing a comfortable ride on the bumpier trails.
The DRT 1.1. also comes equipped with Tektro hydraulic brakes for supreme stopping power, which is a must, especially on tricky downhill sections. The Shimano Tourney rear derailleur delivers the precise and smooth shifting that Shimano is known for.
You’ll also find a Shimano 3X7 drivetrain providing multiple gear options ideal for those who are just starting out. The Co-op DRT 1.1 is safe for riders weighing up to 300 lbs.
At a glance
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is perfect for those who have a little bit of experience riding the trails and are ready to purchase their first high-quality and durable mountain bike. Packed with quality components, the Co-op DRT 1.1 is a steal at this price.
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is a heavy hitter when it comes to the quality of components you get on a bike in this price range. The SR Sun tour suspension comes with 100 mm of travel, providing a comfortable ride on the bumpier trails.
The DRT 1.1. also comes equipped with Tektro hydraulic brakes for supreme stopping power, which is a must, especially on tricky downhill sections. The Shimano Tourney rear derailleur delivers the precise and smooth shifting that Shimano is known for.
You’ll also find a Shimano 3X7 drivetrain providing multiple gear options ideal for those who are just starting out. The Co-op DRT 1.1 is safe for riders weighing up to 300 lbs.
Features:
- Style / Type
- Hardtail
- Frame Material
- 6061 aluminum
- Frame Sizes Available
- 13-19
- Wheel Sizes Available
- 27.5
- Suspension
- SR Suntour - 100mm travel
- Crankset
- Shimano Tourney 42-34-24
- Drivetrain
- Shimano Rapidfire Plus 3x7
- Tires
- Kenda Kadre 27.5x2.1
- Brakes
- Tektro Hydraulic Disc
- Weight
- 31.5
Scores:
- Build Quality
- Ease of Assembly
- Downhill Performance
- Climbing Performance
- Enjoyment
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Perfect for both men and women
- Rapidfire shifters for silky smooth shifting
- State-of-the-art hydraulic disc brakes
- 100mm of travel in the fork for a comfy ride
- Platform pedals included are perfect for beginners
Cons
- Only available in two colors; although the two colors are awesome.
5 Expert Tips For Buying A $500 Mountain Bike
Below are my five expert tips to help you purchase the right mountain bike for you and your riding style. These tips will save you money and help you avoid some of the pitfalls many beginners new to mountain biking make when buying a new bike.
1. Be Wary Of Full Suspension
While full-suspension bikes are great fun, there’s a reason they’re typically found on higher-end, more expensive mountain bikes. In the $500 price range, you can find some good examples of full-suspension frame sets, but most bikes in this price range don’t come equipped with the best full-suspension setup.
In this price range, the components tend to be much heavier, hindering how the bike handles and feels. In my opinion, you’re much better off purchasing a hardtail which will be much lighter and come equipped with better components. Leave the full-suspension bike for when you’ve got a blogger budget
2. Buy The Right Size
Regardless of how much you spend on a mountain bike, the last thing you want to do is buy the wrong size. For example, don’t just buy a smaller model or a “unisex” model just because it’s cheaper. Trust me; you’ll regret it in the long run; or ride!!
Riding any bike with the wrong size can lead to injury, as your riding position will be incorrect. Injuries to the lower back, hips, legs, and upper back are common injuries associated with a poor bike fit, not to mention on downhill trails, it can be dangerous. Most brands have size charts, or visit your local bike shop to test ride before ordering online.
3. Pimp Your Mountain Bike
I know, I know, function and practicality over style, right? Yes, to a certain degree. However, when you start spending a little bit more money, buying a bike you thinks looks cool only makes sense.
Top Tip: If you can’t find the color you like in your spec, you can always buy a lower-grade spec in the same color and slowly upgrade the components over time. That’s much easier and less expensive than painting the frame.
4. Keep Some Money Behind
Buying your first bike is exciting, but getting carried away and spending all your money on it is easy. Remember, there are other items you’ll need to buy to make your mountain biking experience stylish, fun, and safe, which is why you don’t want to “blow” all your money on the bike.
Some items you’ll need to purchase are:
- A good helmet.
- Bike shorts and jersey.
- A good pair of gloves and sunglasses.
- Pump, spare tires, tubes, repair kit, etc.
- Bike maintenance.
5. Fix Your Own Bike
Despite what many riders think, learning to fix your own bike is easy. It just takes patience and willingness to learn new skills that will save you money and keep you safe on the trails. There are a ton of educational videos on YouTube that show you how to fix just about any bike issue. If you’re out in the middle of nowhere, knowing how to change a tire can be a lifesaver, literally.
That’s A Wrap
Buying a mountain bike is exciting but also daunting, especially if you’re new to the sport. But it doesn’t have to be that way; if you follow the advice I’ve given today, then I’m absolutely certain you can find the right bike for the right price.
Remember, full-suspension bikes in this price range are of decent quality, but they’re few and far between, which is why I recommend sticking to a hardtail to get the most out of your money.
What’s important to note is that many bikes on this list are just as good as mountain bikes that cost $1000 – $1500, with the main difference being weight. Sometimes, a weight difference of only a few hundred grams can translate to thousands of extra dollars in price; is that worth it? I don’t think so.
$500 mountain bikes offer good quality, and as I said earlier, you can always upgrade your components as you go.
FAQ's
How Do I Choose A Budget Mountain Bike?
When purchasing a budget mountain bike, there are a few factors you need to consider. First and foremost is the brand. Make sure you look for reputable bike brands with a history of producing quality bikes at affordable prices. When it comes to budget bike frames, remember that a high-quality aluminum frame is a much better choice than cheap carbon one.
How Can You Tell If A Bike Is A Good Quality?
The frame and suspension are the two easiest and most trusted ways to check if a mountain bike is of good quality. Many budget mountain bikes look good, but on closer inspection, they lack the quality components of more expensive high-end mountain bikes. That said, many brands like Schwinn, Mongoose, and Marin offer good components like drivetrain and suspension at very affordable prices.
Do Mountain Bikes Require A Lot Of Maintenance?
All mountain bikes, regardless of price or brand, require some amount of maintenance. However, there are things you can do to keep the costs down. Getting into the habit of washing your bike after each ride is probably the easiest way to prolong its life and keep it out of the workshop. When washing your bike, pay special attention to the drivetrain and brakes, ensuring you get all the mud out of those areas.
