Do you want to buy an affordable mountain bike with some features that will make it great for riding off-road? Look no further than the best mountain bike under 500. One which is perfect for beginner and intermediate riders who are on a budget
What makes mountain bikes unique?
Mountain biking is a unique sport because of the terrain that is typically encountered. Mountain bikes are designed to handle this type of terrain, making them very versatile and fun to ride. Here are some of the reasons why mountain biking is so special:
- Mountain biking is great exercise. Riding a bike up a hill can be challenging and rewarding at the same time, and it’s a great way to get your cardio fitness workout.
- The scenery is beautiful. Whether you’re cycling through forests, rolling through fields, or exploring rugged peaks, there’s always something new to see on a mountain bike ride.
- Mountain bikes are versatile. They’re perfect for commuting to work or running errands in town but also great for touring or camping out in nature.
Top 11 Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 Overview
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Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 24 Wheel Size: 29 Inches Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike |
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Mongoose Status Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 26 Inches Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike |
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Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches Frame Material: Steel Special Features: Lightweight Mountain bike |
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Hiland Mountain Bike, 3/6/Multi-Spokes | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 26 Inches Special Features: The aluminum frame is lightweight and strong |
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Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches Special Features: 21 Speed, Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike |
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Folding Mountain Bike for Men and Women (27 Speed) | Number of Speeds: 27 Wheel Size: 24 Inches Frame Material: Carbon Steel Special Features: Foldable |
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Folding Mountain Bike for Men and Women (24 Speed) | Number of Speeds: 24 Wheel Size: 24 Inches Frame Material: Carbon Steel Special Features: Foldable |
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Mongoose Eclipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 24 Inches Frame Material: Steel Special Features: Lightweight, 21 speed Mountain bike |
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Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26″ Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 21 Wheel Size: 26 Inches Special Features: Lightweight Mountain bike |
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Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike | Number of Speeds: 24 Wheel Size: 29 Inches Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike, Lightweight |
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How to choose the right mountain bike?
With so many excellent mountain bikes available today, choosing the right one can be challenging. You can choose the one that best meets your needs by following these tips.
Is it more enjoyable for you to cruise down smooth, flat trails or is it more enjoyable to bomb hills? The first consideration should be your riding style. If you’re more of a flat-lander, go with a bike that’s designed for easygoing rides. Conversely, if you’re a thrill seeker, go for a bike built for climbing and downhill descents.
Also, consider your budget and what type of riding you plan.
Top Mountain Bikes Under 500
- Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike
- Mongoose Status Mountain Bike
- Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike
- Hiland Mountain Bike, 3/6/Multi-Spokes
- Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike
- Folding Mountain Bikes for Men and Women
- Folding Mountain Bike for Men and Women (24 Speed)
- Mongoose Eclipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids
- Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26″ Mountain Bike
- Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike
- Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
1. Schwinn Bonafide Mens Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike
Do you want a bike that can take an easy money trail? There is no doubt that the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike will be of great benefit to you! An aluminum frame makes it durable and able to withstand a great deal of abuse. Smooth and trouble-free riding is ensured by the suspension fork. Disc brakes on the front and rear provide great stopping power on the trail, and 24-speed shifters and derailleurs make gear changes a breeze on the trail.
With knobby mountain tires measuring 2.25 inches wide and durable double-wall alloy wheels, this bike is ideal for rough terrain.
You can enjoy some fun right away with the assembled bike ships!
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Beginner Friendly
Cons
- Not for Racing
2. Mongoose Status Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike
Mongoose Status mountain bikes are perfect for anyone looking for an affordable mountain bike. Although the bike only has 21 speeds, it is still competent. The bike is made with a durable aluminum frame and hydroformed tubing, which makes it solid and reliable. It is also ideal for riders between the heights of 64 and 74 inches. A smooth shifter makes changing gears easy on every ride, as well. It also features very effective brakes at the front and rear, allowing you to stop quickly when you need to. A 26×2.125″ (diameter x width) tire on the bike makes it capable of rolling over anything. It looks complete when a mountain bike has a riser handlebar and a colored end plug. Overall, the Mongoose Status mountain bike is a great value and perfect for anyone looking for an affordable mountain bike.
Pros
- Best Mountain Bike
- Comfortable
- Affordable Price
- Lightweight
Cons
- Kick Stand Not to Include
3. Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches
- Frame Material: Steel
- Special Features: Lightweight Mountain bike
Remember the Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike when purchasing your next mountain bike. The bike has a lightweight frame and 21 speeds, making it an excellent option for all riders. You can also choose between a 27.5-inch wheel size or a 29-inch wheel size, both of which offer excellent stability and traction. In addition, the Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike comes in multiple colors, making it easy to find the perfect option for your ride. With all its features and affordability, the Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike is ideal for a top-quality mountain bike under 500 dollars.
Pros
- Aluminum Alloy Frame
- 21 Speed
- Effective Disc Brake
- Easy to Ride
- Budget Friendly
Cons
- Seats some hard
4. Hiland Mountain Bike, 3/6/Multi-Spokes
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: The aluminum frame is lightweight and strong
The Hiland Mountain Bike is a versatile and durable option for both men and women. With a 3/6/multi-spokes design, this bike is built to handle rough terrain and steep inclines. The Shimano 21-speed drivetrain provides smooth and precise gear shifting, while the aluminum frame is lightweight and strong. The 26-inch wheels are designed for stability and traction, and the disc brakes offer reliable stopping power. This bike is perfect for those who enjoy off-road adventures and want a high-performance bike that can handle anything.
Pros
- Aluminum lightweight frame
- The Shimano 21-speed
- 26 Inches Wheel
Cons
- Not comfortable for long-distance rides
5. Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: 21 Speed, Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike
If you’re in the market for a good first mountain bike that’s perfect for your budget, the Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike may be the ideal option. With 21 speeds and a 27.5-inch wheel size, this bike can handle various surfaces and terrain. Solid and responsive, this dirt trail and gravel path bike has an aluminum mountain-tuned frame and Zoom HL565 suspension fork. It is the best cheap mountain bike for under $200.
An aluminum mechanical disc brake provides crisp all-condition stopping power, while a 21-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain provides quick, precise shifts. The Schwinn Mesa Adult Mountain Bike may be the perfect option if you want a versatile and capable bike.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Disc Brakes front and back
- Easy gear shifting
- Affordable
- Solid and stable frame
Cons
- Not for racing
6. Folding Mountain Bike for Men and Women (27 Speed)
- Number of Speeds: 27
- Wheel Size: 24 Inches
- Frame Material: Carbon Steel
- Special Features: Foldable
The Folding Mountain Bike comes with 27 speeds and a 24-inch wheel. Consider this model if you want to avoid storing or transporting your bike. You can take the bike anywhere since it is foldable. The best mountain bike for women and men is a folding mountain bike. It is convenient for those who want to save space and money. Women also benefit from this bike. Folding mountain bikes are designed for women but have the same specifications as men’s bikes. It has a more petite frame and a different wheel size.
But the best part of the Folding Mountain Bike is the high load-bearing shock absorber. Despite its robust design, it is extremely stable on rough terrain. The Folding Mountain Bike is the perfect option if you’re looking for a bike that will give you plenty of thrills and fun.
Pros
- Easy to Fold
- Easy to Transport
- Affordable Price
- Comfortable
Cons
- It’s not lightweight
7. Folding Mountain Bike for Men and Women (24 Speed)
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Wheel Size: 24 Inches
- Frame Material: Carbon Steel
- Special Features: Foldable
This foldable bike is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, making it a perfect option for both genders. An affordable folding mountain bike lets you enjoy the great outdoors. With a 24-speed gear system and carbon steel frame, this bike will surely take your riding to the next level. A bike that can handle a wide variety of trails is a great choice if you’re looking for a bike that can handle a variety of terrain. The Foldable Mountain Bike is the best beginner mountain bike that you can use for both commuting and recreational purposes. Enjoy years of enjoyment with this affordable, easy-to-store piece.
Pros
- Foldable
- Affordable
- Solid Frame
- Mountain and Road Bike
- Durable Wheels
Cons
- Some Extra Weight
8. Mongoose Eclipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 24 Inches
- Frame Material: Steel
- Special Features: Lightweight, 21 speed Mountain bike
The Mongoose Eclipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike is the best bike under 500 for kids. It has a lightweight steel frame and alloy wheels for durability. The rear derailleur is a 21-speed Shimano, and the cranks are three pieces. Stopping with the linear-pull brakes on the front and rear is easy. During assembly, the shoe position and brake cables can be adjusted. This makes it easy for kids to start their mountain biking journey.
Pros
- Affordable
- Front and Rear Shock Absorbers
- Steel Frame
- Comfortable
Cons
- Some Extra Weight
9. Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26″ Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Steel
- Special Features: Lightweight Mountain bike
It’s the Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26-inch mountain bike! A budget-friendly bike like this one is great for anyone because it has everything they need and is lightweight enough for anyone to ride. There’s nothing more unique than the matte black and purple glow-effect paint finish.
A matte black and purple glow-effect paint finish emphasizes the steel frame of the Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26-inch mountain bike made from sturdy steel. This makes the cycle look stylish modern strong, and durable. The 26-inch wheel size is perfect for riders 12 years and up or over 57 inches tall. A wide range of braking options, including alloy V-brakes at the front and rear, provide the bike with plenty of stopping power.
The 21-speed derailleur with grip shifters lets you shift gears quickly, while the complete suspension mountain bike with lightweight alloy rims makes it comfortable to ride. Dynacraft Slick Rock Trails 26-inch mountain bike is perfect for anyone who wants a budget-friendly mountain bike that’ll perform well.
Pros
- Affordable Price
- Full Suspension Frame
- Easy Assembling
- 21 Speed
Cons
- Not for long riding
10. Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike, Lightweight
The Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er is perfect for you. A lightweight aluminum frame, 24 speeds, and 29-inch wheels make this bike lightweight and durable. It’s ideal for beginners because it has a suspension fork and mechanical brakes. Moreover, this bike is sturdy and durable because it’s made of hand-forged 6061 alloys. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or looking for an affordable way to get around, the Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er is a perfect choice.
Pros
- Quality Tires
- Easy Assemble
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Seat some Hard
11. Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Special Features: 21-speed, Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike is the perfect bike for you! Besides the 26-inch frame size, the bike has 21-speed gears and a 65mm-travel suspension fork. You’ll get the perfect combination of performance and safety when you ride with Shimano 21 Speed Shifters with Tourney Derailleurs and Front Disc Brakes/Rear Linear Pull Brakes. The alloy wheel rims will ensure you can ride this bike on any terrain, and the price will surely fit any budget.
Pros
- Comfortable Riding
- Low Price
- Good Frame
Cons
- Required Professional tuning
Tips to Choose the Right Mountain Bike
Mountain biking is one of the best outdoor activities. It is the fastest-growing sport that is attracting more and more people to take part in it. Mountain biking is popular among people because of its numerous advantages.
Mountain biking provides an opportunity to improve your fitness level. As you will be cycling in hilly terrain, you will sweat a lot, which will help you lose weight. When you participate in mountain biking, you will have to ride along trails, which will help you get in touch with nature. You will likely spend most of your time outside. As there are chances of getting hurt, mountain biking is unsuitable for children.
The disadvantages are also present. Compared to other sports, it is more expensive. Also, it requires proper knowledge and skills. You will be spending a lot of money on accessories and gear.
If you are planning to buy a new mountain bike, then here are some tips to consider:
Know the type of trail
First of all, you need to know the type of trail where you are going to ride. You are at risk of getting injured if you don’t know the trail’s condition.
Check the frame
Strong frames can withstand pressure, so check them out. You will ride on rough terrain, so check the frame for strength.
The tire
This is one of the most important factors as it will decide how well you will ride. The tires should be firm and smooth.
Wheels
The wheels should be durable as they will carry your weight. They should have a good grip.
Gears
It would help if you got a good pair of gears to help you change the speed.
The brakes
You need to get a brake that is easy to use, and you can adjust it according to your needs.
What are the things that make the best mountain bike under 500 dollars better?
- Durable Frame: A strong and sturdy frame is crucial for a mountain bike to withstand rough terrain and heavy use. Look for a bike with a durable aluminum frame or a steel frame that can withstand the rigors of off-road riding.
- Suspension: A suspension fork is essential for absorbing shocks and bumps on rough terrain. A good suspension fork will provide a smooth ride and better control of the bike on rough terrain.
- Drivetrain: A good drivetrain is essential for smooth and reliable shifting. Look for a bike with at least 21-speeds, which will provide a good range of gear for different types of terrain.
- Brakes: Disc brakes are considered best for mountain bikes as they provide better stopping power and control than traditional rim brakes.
- Tires: Good quality tires with good traction are important for off-road riding. Look for tires with knobby treads that provide a good grip on dirt, gravel, and rocky terrain.
- Comfort: A comfortable seat, handlebars, and pedals will help you ride for longer periods of time.
- Weight: A lightweight bike is easier to handle and maneuver, especially on steep inclines and descents.
- Brand and warranty: A good brand with a good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that you have a quality product that is backed by the manufacturer.
It’s important to note that some of these features such as lightweight, good warranty, and comfortable components may not be available in this budget but by keeping these things in mind, you can get a better bike that will serve you well in the long run.
What Are the Different Types of Mountain Bikes?
Mountain bikes are popular among youngsters who like to ride on the roads and also want to go cycling. Each type of mountain bike has its own specifications, and many different types are on the market. Some mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding, while some are made for off-road riding and other types of riding.
There are different types of starter mountain bikes available on the market, which include road bikes, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, fat bikes, urban bikes, and hybrid bikes. I plan to discuss the different types of mountain bikes and their advantages and disadvantages.
Road bikes
This is the most popular bike among youngsters, but it is costly compared to mountain bikes. Road bikes under 500 are the most suitable for the beginner as they are easy to ride, handle and control.
Mountain bikes
These are the most popular bikes for mountain biking and racing. This type of bike has suspension for better handling and riding. Off-road and mountain climbing are both possible with these bikes.
Downhill bikes
They are designed for racing and downhill riding. Aside from being expensive, these bikes are also powerful and heavy.
Fat bikes
The fat bikes are designed for off-road riding and also for mountain climbing. Beginners are not recommended to use these bikes.
Urban bikes
Designed for commuting, these bikes are ideal for city riding. As well as being the most economical bikes, these are also the most comfortable.
Hybrid bikes
Hybrid bikes are a combination of two types of bikes. Off-road and mountain biking are both possible with these bikes.
Final Thoughts
The best mountain bike under 500 is perfect for your budget. You’re sure to find the perfect one with various features and prices. If you’re interested in mountain biking, start with something less expensive and then upgrade as your skills develop. So whether you’re new to the sport or just starting, the best mountain bikes under 500 pounds are perfect!