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If you are keen on an adventure and are passionate about mountain biking, you have come to the right place. Typically, a mountain bike is specifically designed to tackle various terrains, making it a perfect choice for off-road cycling. Equipped with components like full suspension forks, lower gear ratios for climbing, powerful brakes, straight handlebars for an upright position, and fat tires, a mountain bike is a versatile choice for both young adults and teenagers who are physically fit.
Mountain biking is a great way to get your heart rate up, challenge yourself and improve your fitness. It enhances your cardiovascular system, increases muscle strength and flexibility, burns body fat, and improves your immune system. So, whether you want to commute in the city or take on rough, rocky terrains, a mountain bike is a great option.
By the way, if you are a beginner and currently looking to buy a good-quality mountain bike without breaking your bank account, Let’s try our review of a handful of affordable mountain bikes available in the market since there are many best mountain bikes available under $500 that offer sophisticated features and high quality. Furthermore, you can also use your mountain bike as a road bike for commuting, making it a two-in-one investment.
We have summed up a list of best mountain bikes under $500 along with their features, pros, and cons. The review is an excellent choice to learn about affordable mountain bikes in the market. Additionally, we have also provided a buying guide to help you find the right mountain bike that fits your needs and budget. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced mountain biker, make sure to consider factors like bike features, pros, and cons before hitting a buy button.
If you are looking for good mountain bike brands on the market, then you shouldn’t miss the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike. According to recent market research, the bike has been ranked one of the best hardtail mountain bikes available on the market. The Huffy Hardtail Mountain bike is a perfect choice for both seasoned cyclists and novice riders who want to build their confidence as well as enjoy riding pleasure. With a price that is friendly on your wallet, this bike offers speed, comfort, and full control that is hard to find in beginner-level bikes around.
Mountain biking is not only enjoyable, but it also provides numerous health benefits. Even though Finding the right mountain bike can be challenging, the Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension 26″ mountain bike is the one you shouldn’t look over. This bike offers stylish, trendy, and attractive designs that come in a variety of colors to suit everyone’s tastes. It is one of the most affordable and high-value mountain bikes currently available on the market.
This full-suspension mountain bike is equipped with an outstanding dual suspension frame, cool knobby tires, a 21-speed drivetrain, and rising handlebars. Thus, the Kent KZ2600 mountain bike is suitable for all bikers from beginners to experts. The quality of the components is top-notch which ensures a safe ride. Moreover, this entry-level mountain bike also features linear-pull disc brakes, providing a lightweight, durable experience, and safety. With this sturdy and smart mountain bike, you can enjoy your long trips with ease, without any hindrance to your speed.
The Mongoose Impasse is one of the best mountain bikes available for cruising on any terrain. This dual-suspension mountain bike is uniquely designed with a sturdy aluminum frame and 29-inch-wide tires, making it easy to handle during your long journey. Additionally, the Mongoose Impasse is ranked among the best beginner mountain bikes on the market by numerous satisfied customers. It offers an affordable price and is also equipped with reliable components such as a dual-disc braking system, SRAM twist shifters, 21-speed gears, and many more.
The shock absorption is customized to suit your riding style, furthermore, the front and rear disc brakes also provide immediate stopping power to ensure safety. Despite its impressive features, the Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike remains stylish and simple. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike is suitable for cyclists of all levels.
Mountain biking is an adrenaline-fueled and thrilling activity, but it’s also a practical mode of transportation for many women, particularly in bustling cities like New York, London, and Chicago. If you’re tired of the hassle of public transportation and want to explore urban areas or take a leisurely off-trail ride on your mountain bike, then the Dynacraft Women’s 24″ 21 Speed Rip Curl Bike is the perfect solution for you.
This budget-friendly, stylish, and sleek mountain bike for women is your key to adventure. It comes equipped with disc brakes, making it ideal for rough terrain, uphill climbs, and gravel trails. With its lightweight 36-pound frame, the Dynacraft Women’s 21 Speed Rip Curl Bike is perfect for beginner mountain bikers eager to explore the sport, as well as for intermediate cyclists looking to upgrade.
According to customer feedback, the majority of women who have purchased this mountain bike are highly satisfied with its performance and the ease of replacing parts. So, if you’re looking to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking, now is the time to consider the Dynacraft Women’s 21-Speed Rip Curl Bike.
The Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike is a highly recommended option, especially for those looking for a hardtail mountain bike with front suspension. Equipped with 24-speed gear shifting and a braking system, this full-suspension mountain bike is sure to impress. The knobby tires and robust wheels are designed to handle any terrain and make every ride a smooth and comfortable experience.
This bike is built to provide a combination of speed, power, and strength. The compact Schwinn suspension fork and front and rear Shimano mix derailleurs make it easier to tackle any obstacles on your ride. Additionally, the 29-inch wheels with alloy rims are perfect for any type of trail condition.
The Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike with front suspension, Like Schwinn Traxion, is also one of the best mountain bikes I do recommend. This full-suspension mountain bike features better gear shifting at 24 speeds, a braking system, knobby tires, and robust wheels. Schwinn Bonafide is a hardtail mountain bike that features front suspension but lacks rear suspension.
Luckily, you will get some best features available in this hardtail mountain bike at a reasonable price, and you may enjoy lots of benefits from it. Supposedly, if you are impressed with the front and rear Shimano mix derailleurs, and 24-speed Shimano triggers, then a compact Schwinn suspension fork will make a smoother and more comfortable ride.
It is truly built on the combination of speed and mix-up with power and strength. Additionally, this bike enables you to ride over smooth terrains and tackle every rubble-covered stretch. For this reason, you should put this bike on the top of your list if you’re looking for a super reliable hardtail mountain bike that offers stylish flair options at an attractive price.
The Roadmaster Granite Peak Men’s Mountain Bike stands out as one of the best options in the market, offering top-notch components and a quality material design at an affordable price range. This full-suspension mountain bike boasts impressive features such as its minion tires that enhance the rolling performance, and its state-of-the-art craftsmanship that includes linear-pull brakes, shifters, and other substantial components.
Not only is the Roadmaster Granite Peak ideal for both on-road and off-road riding expeditions but it is also known for its superb maneuverability. This trail mountain bike is constructed with steel, offering a stronger construction compared to aluminum materials.
1Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
If you are looking for good mountain bike brands on the market, then you shouldn’t miss the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike. According to recent market research, the bike has been ranked one of the best hardtail mountain bikes available on the market. The Huffy Hardtail Mountain bike is a perfect choice for both seasoned cyclists and novice riders who want to build their confidence as well as enjoy riding pleasure. With a price that is friendly on your wallet, this bike offers speed, comfort, and full control that is hard to find in beginner-level bikes around.
Features:
- The bike provides 21-speed Shimano gear and a small shift twister to flip between the options quickly. It helps you to adapt the speed in the all-terrain and most preferred level of effort.
- Besides, it comes with 24-inch knobby tires and provides you with lots of grips and, of course, traction on the surface and trail.
- It also has linear-pull hand brakes, which will trigger at any moment. It is beneficial for emergency stops.
- Brakes have super anodized allow rims that offer high potency, efficiency, and balance up to speed.
- It does not only have a larger sturdy aluminum mountain bike frame, but these frames are also durable and give the bike strength for its high-speed performance.
- The large wheels also provide excellent maneuverability on both rough and smooth terrains.
PROS:
- Comfortable soft-textured seat
- The lightweight and durable mountain bike frame
- 21 speeds Shimano gears
- Value for the money
- High-quality linear-pull brakes
- Sturdy construction
- Available in multiple colors
CONS:
- A little shifting difficulty
- Require a learning curve for beginners
- Relatively poor warranty
2Kent KZ2600 Mountain Bike
Mountain biking is not only enjoyable, but it also provides numerous health benefits. Even though Finding the right mountain bike can be challenging, the Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension 26″ mountain bike is the one you shouldn’t look over. This bike offers stylish, trendy, and attractive designs that come in a variety of colors to suit everyone’s tastes. It is one of the most affordable and high-value mountain bikes currently available on the market.
This full-suspension mountain bike is equipped with an outstanding dual suspension frame, cool knobby tires, a 21-speed drivetrain, and rising handlebars. Thus, the Kent KZ2600 mountain bike is suitable for all bikers from beginners to experts. The quality of the components is top-notch which ensures a safe ride. Moreover, this entry-level mountain bike also features linear-pull disc brakes, providing a lightweight, durable experience, and safety. With this sturdy and smart mountain bike, you can enjoy your long trips with ease, without any hindrance to your speed.
Features:
- This bike has an impressive 26″ full suspension aluminum frame that makes the bike steady and robust
- Along with the full suspension frame, the bike has a 65mm long-travel Suspension fork for easy control of the bike.
- The Kent KZ2600 dual-suspension mountain bike equips with Shimano 21 Speed Shifters and Rear Tourney Derailleur, and you can perform quick-shifting efficiently.
- Additionally, the bike also offers a Front Disc Brake system, and a rear linear-pull braking system to facilitate a smooth brake.
- Its Wheel Rims are made with durable Alloy materials for providing extra durability.
- This bike comes in various colors with 26″ extensive wheels.
- Finally, it is safe to say that Kent KZ2600 is a quality bike because of its crankset and 21-speed gear, which is adequate and enough for entry-level bikers to handle.
PROS:
- Attractive look
- Superb 21-speed gear
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- 26″ giant wheels
- Adjustable handlebar
- Stunning design
- Compact but user-friendly
- Best for beginners
- High-quality materials
CONS:
- Bike Assemble is required
- No accessory holding place
- No kickstand
3Mongoose Impasse Bike
The Mongoose Impasse is one of the best mountain bikes available for cruising on any terrain. This dual-suspension mountain bike is uniquely designed with a sturdy aluminum frame and 29-inch-wide tires, making it easy to handle during your long journey. Additionally, the Mongoose Impasse is ranked among the best beginner mountain bikes on the market by numerous satisfied customers. It offers an affordable price and is also equipped with reliable components such as a dual-disc braking system, SRAM twist shifters, 21-speed gears, and many more.
The shock absorption is customized to suit your riding style, furthermore, the front and rear disc brakes also provide immediate stopping power to ensure safety. Despite its impressive features, the Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike remains stylish and simple. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike is suitable for cyclists of all levels.
Features:
- The Mongoose Impasse weighs only 42 pounds, and the size is 31 x 9 x 56 inches. It is compact and lightweight.
- This trail mountain bike has an aluminum frame with an element suspension fork.
- It comes with both front and rear alloy disks and a dual suspension fork.
- Like other mountain bikes in the market, it features a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur and valuable SRAM twist shifters.
- Besides, it is also equipped with a ProWheel crankset and square taper bracket.
- The bike is available with a quick-release front and a 29″ Wheelset.
- Mongoose provides a 2-year limited warranty on every bike purchase.
- This bike is suitable for shorter to taller cyclists with a height of 68 inches.
PROS:
- Aluminum full suspension frame
- Tough and durable frame
- It provides extra comfort while cycling
- Easy to Assemble
- Wallet-Friendly Price
- Dual full-suspension bike
- Dual disk braking
- Large wide tires
- Attractive look
CONS:
- Bounce suspension sometimes
- Disk brakes may change automatically
- Some parts are not up to the mark
4Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike
Mountain biking is an adrenaline-fueled and thrilling activity, but it’s also a practical mode of transportation for many women, particularly in bustling cities like New York, London, and Chicago. If you’re tired of the hassle of public transportation and want to explore urban areas or take a leisurely off-trail ride on your mountain bike, then the Dynacraft Women’s 24″ 21 Speed Rip Curl Bike is the perfect solution for you.
This budget-friendly, stylish, and sleek mountain bike for women is your key to adventure. It comes equipped with disc brakes, making it ideal for rough terrain, uphill climbs, and gravel trails. With its lightweight 36-pound frame, the Dynacraft Women’s 21 Speed Rip Curl Bike is perfect for beginner mountain bikers eager to explore the sport, as well as for intermediate cyclists looking to upgrade.
According to customer feedback, the majority of women who have purchased this mountain bike are highly satisfied with its performance and the ease of replacing parts. So, if you’re looking to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking, now is the time to consider the Dynacraft Women’s 21-Speed Rip Curl Bike.
Features:
- Mongoose Status 2.2 features a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur and full suspension fork for easy riding and shock absorption.
- This beginner mountain bike has an MTB step-thru sturdy aluminum frame with a 42-pound lightweight design.
- Its Knobby tires are more comprehensive than other tires, and the measurement is 2.125 inches.
- For easy riding service, the bike is equipped with front and rear V-brakes to ensure better control.
- To withstand a rigorous road, it has a quick-release seat post and comfortable handlebars.
- Finally, its heavy-duty and leak-proof tires confirm more strength.
PROS:
- Lightweight aluminum body
- Height adjustment system
- Full suspension for extra comfort
- 21-speed levels
- Shimano rear derailleurs
- SRAM twist shifters
- Stable knobby tires
- Durable alloy wheel rim
- V brakes system
- Easy handling and maintenance
CONS:
- Heavy
- Hard seat
- Limited available color options
5Dynacraft Women’s Rip Curl Bike
The Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike is a highly recommended option, especially for those looking for a hardtail mountain bike with front suspension. Equipped with 24-speed gear shifting and a braking system, this full-suspension mountain bike is sure to impress. The knobby tires and robust wheels are designed to handle any terrain and make every ride a smooth and comfortable experience.
This bike is built to provide a combination of speed, power, and strength. The compact Schwinn suspension fork and front and rear Shimano mix derailleurs make it easier to tackle any obstacles on your ride. Additionally, the 29-inch wheels with alloy rims are perfect for any type of trail condition.
Features:
- The bike features superb Linear pull brakes in both front and rear to provide proper stoppage power.
- This trail bike is equipped with a 21-speed index derailleur that helps to fly across the trail.
- Its dual suspension frame and dual disc V-brakes on the front and back wheels ensure ease of control while riding.
- The Shimano grip shifters are specially designed for greater comfort.
- Its mounted padded saddle and full seat post provide comfortable riding.
PROS:
- Sturdy bike
- Easy to assemble
- Fits well for tall cyclists
- Easy to perform gear shifting
- Very lightweight
- High-quality frame
- Able to upgrade accessories
CONS:
- Low-quality brake pads
- A bit narrow seat
- Thin tires surface
6Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike
The Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike with front suspension, Like Schwinn Traxion, is also one of the best mountain bikes I do recommend. This full-suspension mountain bike features better gear shifting at 24 speeds, a braking system, knobby tires, and robust wheels. Schwinn Bonafide is a hardtail mountain bike that features front suspension but lacks rear suspension.
Luckily, you will get some best features available in this hardtail mountain bike at a reasonable price, and you may enjoy lots of benefits from it. Supposedly, if you are impressed with the front and rear Shimano mix derailleurs, and 24-speed Shimano triggers, then a compact Schwinn suspension fork will make a smoother and more comfortable ride.
It is truly built on the combination of speed and mix-up with power and strength. Additionally, this bike enables you to ride over smooth terrains and tackle every rubble-covered stretch. For this reason, you should put this bike on the top of your list if you’re looking for a super reliable hardtail mountain bike that offers stylish flair options at an attractive price.
Features:
- Schwinn Bonafide is a full-suspension with aluminum frame construction.
- It provides a better absorption shock through the suspension fork and protects your body from the excessive long journey.
- Its 29-inches wheels with alloy rims help you to ride safely in any trail condition.
- The front and rear disc brakes offer you flawless protection from an emergency stop.
- Enjoy a smooth riding experience with its steady gearing and durable alloy cranks.
- It is suitable for all types of cyclists, regardless of height and size. This hardtail mountain bike offers a 31″ stand, and even a cyclist of 5’8″ high can ride this bike comfortably.
PROS:
- Aluminum alloy frame
- Hardtail suspension provides adequate climbing power
- 29-inch wheels for tough riding
- Shimano gearing components
- Disc brakes
- Great aesthetics
- Built to last longer ride
- Schwinn suspension fork
- Attractive vivid color
- Extended warranty
CONS:
- 3×8 a bit hard gearing system
- No lock-out system on the front suspension
- A little heavier to maneuver
7Roadmaster Granite Peak Mountain Bike
The Roadmaster Granite Peak Men’s Mountain Bike stands out as one of the best options in the market, offering top-notch components and a quality material design at an affordable price range. This full-suspension mountain bike boasts impressive features such as its minion tires that enhance the rolling performance, and its state-of-the-art craftsmanship that includes linear-pull brakes, shifters, and other substantial components.
Not only is the Roadmaster Granite Peak ideal for both on-road and off-road riding expeditions but it is also known for its superb maneuverability. This trail mountain bike is constructed with steel, offering a stronger construction compared to aluminum materials.
Features:
- Instead of employing simple aluminum materials, this mountain bike is made of steel to offer you a stronger construction.
- This men’s full suspension mountain bike features an 18-speed gearing system and shock absorbers front fork to facilitate cycling in all trail conditions.
- Similarly, its rear derailleur is made of the Shimano component. It has SRAM drive twisted shifters to perform the gear shifting promptly.
- A linear pull system supports its brakes, and wheel rims are made of alloy materials to ensure a smooth and robust ride.
- This 26″ mountain bike has a fully padded seat with steel handlebars to provide an excellent cycling experience.
- It also features three excellent pieces of the crankset, 26″ wheels, and standard panels.
- Lastly, it weighs only 38.6 lbs., which is great for all cyclists.
PROS:
- Super responsive
- Aggressive geometry
- Excellent components
- The stable and unique braking system
- Ground-hugging fork traction
- The superb suspension system for a comfortable ride
- Easy to assemble
- Worth the price
- Best for all road pavements
CONS:
- Expensive
- Somewhat heavy
- Flat, unstable pedals
