Are you ready to tackle any road or trail and looking for a price-friendly mountain bike that is high-quality and durable? Despite the general belief that mountain bikes cost a lot, getting the best budget mountain bike that resists the unimaginable condition of the trail is very much available to potential buyers.
All you need is a viable buying guide to walk you through selecting the best mountain bike that won’t break your bank. Read on to find out the best inexpensive mountain bikes, how to get the suitable one for you, and other helpful mountain cycling tips.
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Table of Contents
Who Should Get a Budget Mountain Bike?
Ordinarily, for adventure and health benefits, people pick any affordable trail bike without considering the price, durability, and quality. Meanwhile, this is unlike the smart and prudent buyers who want to scale through the harsh terrain. They know getting a good mountain bike is inevitable.
Therefore, people who should get a budget mountain bike are smart buyers who want to get the best affordable mountain bikes without necessarily breaking their budget. The review below will examine the best mountain bikes for the money extensively, considering their technical specifications and good and bad sides.
Best Budget Mountain Bikes of 2024
1. Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike
Looking for the cheapest men’s mountain bike? An excellent option to consider is the Schwinn S29 Men’s Mountain Bike. It has many great features, including a 21-speed trigger shifter with both front and rear derailleurs to have concise shifting. The 18-inch dual-aluminum suspension frame holds the suspension fork in the front and the shock absorber in the back to escape the bumps while navigating through the trails. The best budget mountain bike is suitable for both beginner and intermediate bikers.
Highlights:
- Quality dual-aluminum suspensions for an effortless ride on surfaces and bumps
- Quick-release seat and the front wheel make transporting the bicycle effortless
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes for accurate speed control
- Extensively wide dual-wall alloy rim
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum
- Dimensions: 57.5/29.5/8.5 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 29 inches
- Weight: 17.98KG
- Speeds: 21
Pros:
- Putting it together is easy
- Good for its price
- All-weather brakes
- Transporting the bike is easy
- Manufacturer lifetime warranty
Cons:
- It is best suitable for over 5’9” bikers. So shorter bikers may have to look elsewhere.
2. Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Mountain Bike
The Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Mountain Bike is another best budget trail bike that is customizable and helps keep riders fit in the off-season. In its name, the ‘fat tire’ complements its physical structure as one is fit to cycle through terrains and harsh weather conditions. It has a seven-speed rear derailleur and twist shifters for easy and smooth riding and gear changing.
Highlights:
- An adult mountain bike designed explicitly for about 5’6” to 6 tall adults
- Has beach navigating pedals for safety
- Steel frame offers strength and comfortable geometry
- The adjustable headset allows people of different heights to access its use
- Highly effective mechanical disc brakes
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 60.25/30/10 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 26 inches
- Special Features: fat tires, not heavy
- Speeds: 7
Pros:
- Good upgrade potential
- Well-cushioned saddle
- Rides well in muddy and snowy conditions
- Easy to assemble for buyers
Cons:
- The crank quality needs an improvement
- Some buyers are not pleased with the tires and wheel’s weight
3. Hiland Mountain Bike
The Hiland Mountain Bike is a 26-inch mountain bike with an aluminum front suspension fork for a steady ride on bumpy trails and roads. It offers a multiple-speed drivetrain for a great riding experience and navigation on various terrains. It is a good starter mountain bike offering a high-quality frame with mid to entry-level components. As one of the best mountain bikes for beginners, it is most suitable for riders between 5’ and 6’6’’ tall.
Highlights:
- Special spokes to resist the wind
- Straight hand bars and saddle for effortless paddling
- Shimano 21-speed gear shifters to tackle any obstacle
- High-quality double V-Brake for great stopping power
- There is an option to choose between 16-inch and 18-inch frame
Technical Specifications:
- Style: 3 Spokes
- Dimensions: 54/28.5/9 inches [L/W/H]
- Weight: 32.8 pounds
- Special feature: kickstand
- Speeds: 21
Pros:
- Attractive color options
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty
- More effective pedaling with less effort
- High-quality welding for superior durability
Cons:
- Not suitable for avid mountain bikers who often ride for hours
4. Dynacraft Magna Front Shock Mountain Bike
Even though the Dynacraft Magna front shock mountain bike is the best budget mountain bike primarily designed for adventurous teen riders, it can be fun to ride for any gender and age. It is portable and lightweight, giving the young riders total control while surfing through the trails. The best budget Mtb has a 26-inch wheel at the front and a 24-inch wheel at the rear to ensure a smooth ride.
Highlights:
- 18-speed grip shifter and dual handbrakes to make riding a blast
- Linear pull brakes in both the front and the rear
- Easily adjustable seat to accommodate people of various heights
- Long-lasting steel frame
- Works better for riders with 4’11’’ or more
Technical Specifications:
- Suggested Users: Unisex-teens
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 64.18/23.65/40.19 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 24 inches
- Special Features: fat tires, not heavy
- Speeds: 7
Pros:
- Durable and affordable
- Easy to ride and assemble
- Good beginner mountain bike
- Suitable for 12 years old and above
Cons:
- One year warranty
5. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
As much as you are aware that you want a mountain bike, you need not break your budget before affording one. You indeed have to consider the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, and it is one of the best budget hardtail mountain bikes out there for riders having a height of about 44 to 56 inches.
Highlights:
- The Assembly video comes with the manual to provide insight into how to assemble it
- Durable steel frame with limited lifetime warranty exclusive for ages 15 upward
- 21-speed drivetrain and a Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur to fit any outdoor adventure
- Quick-release set post lever for effortless seat height adjustment
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 55.1/9.06/ 27.17 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: varies
- Special Features: hardtail frame
- Speeds: 21
Pros:
- Efficient shifting system
- Available in different sizes
- Smooth peddling and acceleration
- Excellent tire grip
- Lightweight construction
Cons:
- It takes more than 30 minutes to assemble
6. Hiland Mountain Bike for Women
This Hiland Bike is one of the cheapest women’s mountain bikes you can get in the market. It is available in various sizes for people of different heights, and its frame is designed to offer lower stand-over height and make it easy for shorter riders to straddle. The best budget mountain bike for women also provides a wide range of gears for more control, durable brakes, and a safety and comfort-boosting high-tech frame. Riders between 5’1” and 5’6” can opt for the 26-inch wheels version, while the 27.5-inch wheels work best for riders between 5’5” and 6’1”.
Highlights:
- Ultralight and durable high-tech frame
- Perfect stopping power from the dual mechanical disc brakes
- Puncture-resistant and strong grip tires
- Lock-out front suspension fork to increase paddling efficiency
- Wide seats for comfort
- 21-speed drivetrain for quick and precise shifting
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum
- Dimensions: 54/28.5/8 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: varies
- Special Features: Lock, Hard tool kit
- Speeds: 21
Pros:
- Better stopping power
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Saves energy when riding on smooth roads
- Very neat and attractive
- Study and fancy
Cons:
- Some customers find it difficult to assemble
7. Huffy Valcon 20” Mountain Bike for Boys
Another cheap trail bike that does not necessarily break the budget before affording it is the Huffy Valcon 20” Mountain Bike for Boys. It is a good entry and cheap full-suspension mountain bike with features that make it convenient for kids to navigate rough terrains. The bicycle comes with a quick-connect design for simple and fast assembly. If your kid is around five to nine years old, this is the best budget mountain bike for him.
Highlights:
- A Shimano rear derailleur pairs with a twist shifter to offer six speeds
- Durable hi-ten steel frame
- Full suspension; front suspension for improved control and handling, and rear suspension for absorbing bumps and dips
- Front and rear steel linear-pull brakes for consistent stopping power
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 46/22/9 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 20
- Weight: 17.24KG
- Speeds: 6
Pros:
- Putting it together is a breeze
- More comfortable gearing for kids
- Reliable and seamless shifting
- Dependable stopping action
- Tires give great footing in different weather
Cons:
- It may require frequent review of screws and re-tidings
8. Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike MTB
The best-budget mountain bikes list is not complete without the Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike MTB. Despite being so affordable, it is of high quality and has a long durability propensity. The discount mountain bike is perfect for climbing mountains with its impending features, and it is easier to use with its low-profile handlebars and headsets.
Highlights:
- A suspension fork with a lock-out at the front
- Fast cycling with the 29” alloy wheels and 29 by 2.1 tires
- 24 speeds drivetrain for excellent speed control
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 54/30/8 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 29
- Special Features: Lock, Tool Kit
- Speeds: varies
Pros:
- Smooth and moves fast
- Solid for mountain climbing
- Increases paddling efficiency
- Improved brakes
Cons:
- Some users complained that the seat might be uncomfortable
9. Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike
Another mountain bike cheap enough to be within budget is the Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail. Despite being a discount MTB bike, it is a smooth mover while climbing mountains, showing no regard for bumps and any other ordeal on the way.
Highlights:
- 4-inch Suntour suspension fork up front for added comfort and control
- Shimano 24-speed adjuster for speed control
- Mechanical disc brakes for excellent stopping power
- Efficient Tektro Aries disc brakes for comfortably bringing the bike to a halt
- Aluminum alloy frame for great durability
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Dimensions: 60/31.5/9 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 27.5
- Special Features: Aluminum Frame
- Speeds: 24
Pros:
- Reliable drivetrain
- Easy to set up
- Solid frame
- Tires have a good grip
Cons:
- Some riders are not comfortable with the seat
10. 2021 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike
The 2021 Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike is yet another best budget mountain bike that is reliable, and you can take it out on the trail. It is a cheap full suspension mountain bike that delivers big brand performance and offers a frame with flawless welding points.
Highlights:
- 24-speed drivetrain for a smooth ride on any surface
- Powerful front and rear disc brakes for concise stopping
- Aluminum alloy frame and seat post
- A rear adjustable coil-over cartridge
Technical Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum
- Dimensions: 52/31/8 inches [L/W/H]
- Wheel Size: 17
- Special Features: Bicycle Pump
- Speeds: 24
Pros:
- Extra reinforcement and strength
- Lightweight
- Improved pedal efficiency
- Adjustable dual suspension
Cons:
- Some components may need adjustment or replacement
Comparison Chart
Best Budget Mountain Bike | Image | Frame Material | Drivetrain | Suspension | Brake | Best for |
 | Aluminum | 21-speed shifters | Dual | Front and rear mechanical disc brakes | Beginner and intermediate bikers | |
 | Steel | 7-speed | Front | Mechanical disc brakes | Adult men | |
 | Aluminum | 21-speeds | Front | Double V-brake | Beginners and riders between 5’ and 6’6’’ tall | |
 | Steel | 18-speeds | Front | Front and rear linear-pull brakes | 12 years old and above or 4’11’’ or more | |
 | Steel | 21-speeds | Front | Linear pull hand brakes | Age 15 and above with 44 to 56 inches of height | |
 | Aluminum | 21-speeds | Front | Dual mechanical disc brakes | Women between 5’1” and 6’1” | |
 | Steel | 6-speeds | Dual | Front and rear linear-pull brakes | Five to nine years old kids | |
 | Aluminum | 24-speeds | Front | Mechanical disc brakes | Beginners and intermediates | |
 | Aluminum alloy | 24-speeds | Front | Mechanical disc brakes | All off-road bikers | |
 | Aluminum | 24-speeds | Dual | Mechanical disc brakes | Different riders |
The Ultimate Best Budget Mountain Bike Buying Guide
Is it possible to buy a mountain bike without exhausting your savings? Even if you get one at a low price, won’t you have a doubtful mind about its quality and durability? The fact is, if you are careful enough, you will get the best budget mountain bike. All you need is to consider some essential features required of a mountain bike while paying attention to the ones with a lower price.
To this effect, when looking for the best yet the cheapest mountain bikes, the following are the factors to put into consideration to get your desired result:
- Price
The first thing to consider is the bike’s price if you want to keep your budget intact. So many mountain bikes with price tags can help sweep your account clean. Therefore, you should carefully choose bikes with lower price tags.
- Wheel size
The wheel size matters a lot in selecting a mountain bike. There are many bumps, lumps, and a host of other hurdles on the way, which a small wheel may find challenging to navigate through. Therefore, you should choose a bike with a wheel that is strong and big enough to scale through the hurdles on the terrain
- Suspension quality
Although bikes with suspension in either front or rear can navigate the jungle, the best option is to go for bikes with full suspension in the front and back for easy trailing and escape from bumps and other hurdles.
- Derailleurs
Another critical factor to consider in buying the best budget mountain bike is the derailleur. The derailleur must be capable of changing the speed gears into multiple ranges to adapt to every situation in the terrain while cycling.
- Material
The material of a bike that will surf a mountain is expected to be strong and durable. So, you need bikes made of strong materials such as steel, iron, aluminum, etc. Note that climbing a mountain with a soft-material bike can easily damage your bicycle.
FAQs
1. Are full suspension mountain bikes worth it?
You may not consider a full suspension bike for riding on a smooth surface. However, full-suspension bikes are worth it and highly important when it comes to mountain cycling.
2. Are budget mountain bikes any good?
Yes, they are suitable for your budget, smooth surface riding, and rough surface cycling. Many budget-friendly trail bicycles have excellent features and deliver high-end performance.
3. How to make the budget mountain bikes even better?
Always take care of it and get its wheels lubricated when due. You should always replace and adjust the components when required.
4. What is the best wheel size for a mountain bike?
Any wheel size above 15 inches should cycle flawlessly on any terrain.
5. Can you downhill with a hardtail?
Yes, but you will feel every bump the rear tire hits.
6. Does mountain biking burn your belly fat?
Yes, because riding on rougher terrains results in a more excellent workout.
Conclusion
Getting a mountain bike that works for you doesn’t necessarily mean you should stretch your budget. We recommend picking from the best budget mountain bikes we reviewed in this article. You can’t go wrong with them because they offer proper trail riding. However, you can utilize our buyers’ guide to know what to look for if you want something else.
>> Check here to learn more posts on the best bikes.
