In a hurry? Here are the best products at a glance.
Mountain bikes are among the most fun outdoor products you can get. To help you find the perfect mountain bike for your needs, we’ve researched a whole series of new and bestselling bicycles. After lots and lots of detailed analysis, we picked the ten best products. Before we jump into the reviews for the best cheap mountain bikes, take a look at the specs you need to keep in mind when buying.
Suspension: This will determine the terrain type your bike is designed to handle. There are three suspension types to choose from: rigid, hardtail, and full. Rigid bikes have no suspension while full have front and rear. Hardtail only has a front suspension.
Wheel Size: You will also find a few different options for wheel sizes. Smaller wheels are easier to maneuver than larger wheels, but larger wheels roll over rough terrain better. Choose the size based on the trails you will frequent and your preference.
Frame Material: The frame material influences the weight and durability of your bike, plus the smoothness of your ride. We recommend finding a balance between durability, weight, and cost. Most bikes will come in aluminum alloy, steel, titanium, and carbon fiber.
Gears: Mountain bikes can be single speed or have a number of gears. If you are riding on steep terrain, you will want to have more gear options. If the terrain is mostly flat, a single-speed bike should work fine. Your choice.
Brake Type: Brakes are another important feature to consider. Most bikes will have either hydraulic or cable-activated disc brakes. However, some entry-level bikes will have rim brakes, which are more consistent but difficult and expensive to service.
Weight: Lastly, you will want to make sure that your mountain bike is a manageable weight. You may have to lift your bike on different occasions, so you will want to ensure it is light enough for you. However, you will still want it to be sturdy.
All right, now that you know how to pick good, cheap mountain bikes let’s get to the reviews. If you’re in a hurry, take a look at the excellent top pick and budget pick below. Have fun riding!
Jennifer Trimbee
Expert Researcher and Writer
Jennifer Trimbee, a lead researcher and writer at GeekWrapped, is an expert writer with many years of experience. Jennifer writes about technology, sports, outdoor, and gear products.
Article last updated on:
September 30, 2019
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