Mountain bikes are ideal for all sorts of different conditions. While a road bike is best for cruising down long stretches, the best entry level bike can be used to get through rough and rocky terrain that many types of bicycles just couldn't handle.
While they're a bit heavier and slower than a road bike, for the average rider, it's not going to make a huge difference. We've put together this guide to help you find the best mountain bicycle that is affordable to help you make the perfect decision.
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CO-OP CYCLES DRT 1.0 BIKE - BikesReviewed.com
Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike
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Our Buying Guide
Are you a wanderer? Getting a perfect mountain bike for yourself can be a tedious job to do, especially when there are so many awesome bikes available in the market. Thus, we have created this guide for you to select and buy only the best one.
We at BikesReviewed, are committed to helping you with the best overall products with safety. All these listed products have gone through extensive research and the opinions of real customers using these bikes.
Also Read - The Best Strategy To Buying A New Mountain Bike
How We Picked
We've tested dozens of models over the years, from budget brands like Specialized to more expensive options such as Santa Cruz's Vado Pro Carbon. In our experience, these bikes tend to be reliable performers in all conditions, even if some have better handling than others.
Our selections include both low-cost and high-end road bikes with carbon frames. All of our suggestions have one thing in common: they all fold up into their own backpacks or bags, allowing you to travel light without taking up more space.
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SCHWINN HIGH TIMBER YOUNG/ADULT MOUNTAIN BIKE |
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Best Entry Level Bikes For
Mountain Biking
High-end mountain bicycles can sometimes cost as high as $10k. While these include some of the very best in the world, you can still get a lot for the money if your budget goes up to the $2k mark. These are the two best options.
Also Read - Best Mountain Bikes Under $500
#1 Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Huffy has created one of the most attractive motorcycles on the market, which comes in 9 different colors. The Huffy hardtail mountain bike is a great value bike, especially if you're purchasing it for your child.
Features Of Huffy Hardtail
- The MTB features a glossy purple lightweight frame which gives the rider easy handling on trails.
- With this bike, you get enough gears, and knobby tread digs for a solid grip on trails and paths.
- The bike also offers a 21-speed gear system with shifters that are reliable for those who like to have more competitive cycling.
- You have Shimano TZ-31 rear indexed derailleurs with micro shift twist shifters that offer ultra-smooth gear shifting with just your index finger and thumb.
- It has linear-pull brakes that enhance the brake pad contact to deliver a smooth and quick stopping power.
Specifications Of Huffy Hardtail
- Dimensions: 62 Inches (L), 38 Inches (H) x 24 Inches (W)
- Holds Up To 120 Pounds
- Weight: 34 Pounds
- Suggested Age: 12 to 19 Years
- Rim Material: Metal Alloy
- Bicycle Frame and Chain Material: Steel
- Pedal Material: Resin
- Wheel Height: 24"
- Front Brake and Rear Brake System: Linear
- Tire Width: 1.95 Inches
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
The tires are designed to handle rugged terrains that render secure riding and are great for your peace of mind. The bike has a light aluminum frame with a strong weight holding capacity to handle all kinds of riding expectations with ease.
It is designed with detailed finishing and is provided at a very affordable price for a trouble-free, secure and fun ride.
best Mountain Bikes Under $1000 Budget
You don't have to empty your savings to purchase a higher-end model that offers a more professional feel on the trail.
If you're willing to go as high as $1000, you'll find a surprising amount of bikes that look and ride similar to competitive bikes. Here are our favorite two.
Also Read - Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000
Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike
CO-OP CYCLES DRT 1.2 BIKE - BikesReviewed.com
co-op cycles drt 1.2 bike
If you are searching for a bike with quick speed choices, the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike is the best option. The bike is an advanced hardtail bike and is designed for high expectations riders. It is a great purchase for those who are looking for a brave ride and who do not step back from challenging trails.
Features Of Co-Op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike
- The DRT 1.0 is equipped with one of the most popular Shimano Tourney gear systems, along with a front derailleur from Altus.
- The bike is equipped with a 42-34-24 crank set with matching Shimano 12,32, 7-speed gear at the back cassette. The bike has 21 gears overall to handle all kinds of terrains.
- The brakes are built with Tektro's hydraulic disc brakes and a powerful lever for amazing stopping power in extreme conditions.
- DRT 1.0 offers a good grip and long suspension travels. The bike has impressive ascending and descending climbing power.
- The bike is equipped with SR Suntour Front suspension for high performance.
- The bike also includes a dropper post, which means you can go loose on downhills and continue to pedal harder again.
- The bike can easily hold up to 300 lbs in total, including the gears carried on the bike. You may also check out easy and plenty of the best bike trails within the U.S.
Specifications Of Of Co-Op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike
- Kenda Kadre tires: 26x2.1
- Shimano Rear Derailleur
- Bike Frame Material: Aluminum
- Number Of Gears: 21
- Weight Limit: 300 lbs
- Tire Width: 2.1 inches
- Brakes: Tektro hydraulic diss
- Wheel Size: 26 inches
- Pedals: Co-op Cycles
- Chain: KMC 7-speed
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
With its dropper post compatibility, it is geared and designed to strongly climb up and race through the terrains. If you are accustomed to this model or even if you are new to this Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2 bike, you will be experiencing a wild ride with its exciting attributes.
Also Read - Top 5 Best Kids Mountain Bikes Of 2023
Royce Union RHT Lightweight Aluminum Men's Mountain Bike
Royce Union RHT Men's Mountain Bike
This bike is designed with a lightweight aluminium hardtail frame that offers amazing handling in a great value package. The bikes offer great control on rough mountain trails and hard terrains. It gives you the confidence to push your limits. It is a perfect choice for beginners and advanced riders.
Also Read - Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike Review
Features Of Royce Union RHT
- The bike is very light and is paired with a Suntour XCT suspension fork for an amazing and smooth ride.
- The bike is built with a full Shimano SLX 22-speed Drivetrain and alloy 3-piece crank set to offer a reliable power system and transfer system with a comfortable gearing system.
- The bike has Kends small block eight tires for low rolling resistance. The wide tires are built with high quality and have excellent grip on rough terrains.
- The comfortable WTB Volt seat offers an elevated and comfortable experience during long rides.
- Housed with Tektro Lyra mechanical disc brakes, it offers great stopping power in different weather conditions.
- The dual hydraulic disc brakes offer reliable stopping power.
Specifications Of Royce Union RHT
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Suspension Type: Front
- Special Feature: Lightweight
- Number of Speeds: 22
- Size: 21-inch frame
- Weight of the bike: 43.3 Pounds
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
A great option for beginners and advanced riders, the Royce Union RHT is best for on and off-road trips. The precise handling and lightweight frame materials make it a better option than most mountain bikes. Known for its high performance, the mountain bike from Royce Union comes with a sleek design that defines incredible structure along with functionality.
Also Read - Mountain Bike Frame Size Calculator
Entry level best Mountain Bikes Under $500 Budget
The under $500 category represents the lowest budget level in our guide, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for something that is barely above a department store level. If you are looking to buy the best budget mountain bike, we are going to show you the quality options.
The three bikes below are all some of the best mountain bikes in this price category.
Also Read - What To Look For When Buying A Mountain Bike?
GRAVITY FSX 1.0 BEGINNER MTB
GRAVITY FSX 1.0 Beginner MTB
We're not really sure how Gravity managed to cram this many features and solid components into it for such a low price, but we're definitely okay with it.
This is not one of those cheaply-made full-suspension bikes you see at big box stores. The Gravity FSX 1.0 is a legitimate full-suspension bike that is capable of taking on some intense single-track trails and even some slight downhill paths as well.
Brand name components, an acceptable weight, and a smart design and aesthetic make the FSX 1.0 one of the best bike values, regardless of type.
Features Of GRAVITY FSX 1.0
- The bike's hydroformed aluminium frame has flawless welding points and provides reinforcement and strength in all the right areas.
- The bike hovers around the 26 lb mark, which isn't overly impressive but definitely serviceable for the price.
- The suspension consists of Suntour shocks that are adjustable in both the front and rear.
- The travel amounts are suitable for trail and all-mountain riding while also offering the right amount of rigidness for more efficient pedalling and precise steering.
- The FSX 1.0's seat post is made from the same aluminium alloy as the frame.
- It supports a surprisingly comfortable saddle that makes casual riding and flatter trail sections much more enjoyable.
- The bike's gear system is composed of Shimano parts, including the Shimano EFT shifters that are feather-light and very reliable in between tune-ups. All of the gear components work together to create a 24-speed system that features impressive ratios and coverage.
- The tires on the FSX 1.0 lack a bit in the traction area but still have ample coverage and an added amount of durability to withstand small punctures and pinch flats. A tire upgrade brings the performance of the FSX 1.0 up to even higher levels.
- As if all these components aren't enough for a bike that hovers around the $500 mark, the FSX 1,0 also comes with Tektro Novela disc brakes.
Suspensions Of GRAVITY FSX 1.0
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Suspension Type: Dual suspension
- Included Components: Bicycle Pump
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Size: 19"
- Brakes: Disc Tektro novela
- Weight: 35 pounds
- Handlebar: Aluminum Riser
- Tires: MultiTread 26x2.1 inch
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
Overall, it's practically impossible to think of any other bikes that come close to delivering this much quality on a full-suspension bike for this low of a price. The FSX 1.0 is the definitive entry-level full-suspension mountain bicycle.
The full suspension, 24-speed system and many other features are covered in our Gravity FSX 1.0 In-Depth Review.
VILANO BLACKJACK 3.0 MOUNTAIN BIKE
Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike
With an affordable range, incredible qualities and attributes, the Vilano Blackjack is a great choice for either trail, dirt roads, paths, or pavement. The bike's seat post is made from the same material and supports a contoured, slightly-padded saddle that is serviceable, although heavier mountain bikers may want something a little better.
Features Of VILANO BLACKJACK
- The frame is hand-built and butted using 6061 alloys, with seamless welds as well.
- The Blackjack 3.0's front suspension fork isn't the greatest, but that's to be expected with this price range.
- There is one major advantage with it, however, as the shock provides a quick lockout feature for those who need more stability and pedal efficiency.
- The gear system is made up of Shimano components, with the gear shifters being integrated into the brake levers, just like their popular road bikes.
- You get 24 speeds total with the Blackjack 3.0, which is perfectly fine for most moderate trail riding scenarios.
- We aren't exactly sure who makes the wheels, but the 29-inch design holds up and functions in the same way as any other bike with larger wheels and tires.
- You can clear obstacles easier and attain higher speeds with less effort. The Blackjack 3.0's tires are made by Kenda and have adequate traction for dirt paths.
Specifications Of VILANO BLACKJACK
- Weight: 30 Pounds
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc
- Frame: Hand Built Butted 6061 Alloy 29er Hardtail
- Rims: Double Wall Alloy
- Speeds: 24
- Stand over Height: 32.6"
- Fork: Suspension 80mm
- Chain: KMC z72
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
The bike's disc brakes are superior to other bikes in the lower entry-level price range and provide a great amount of stopping effort and control with little hand effort.
Simply put, the Vilano Blackjack 3.0 is an entry-level 29er you can buy and feel totally confident about.
Source : YouTube - Global Mountain Bike Network
Fat Tire Bikes
Fat bikes are no longer a side niche but a viable and increasingly-popular bike type that is still winning over mountain riders who need a better way to navigate surfaces like sand and snow when mountain biking.
Mongoose Argus and Argus ST
Mongoose Argus and Argus ST
Argus is the real fat bike from the brand Mongoose. The bike is built with fat tires for conquering all kinds of mountain terrains and adventures.
This is one of the easiest and affordable bikes to ride in the fat bike collection. Generally, the fat tire bikes are easy to ride; however, the Argus wins in the competition.
Features Of Mongoose Argus And Argus ST
- The bike is designed with a hardtail, sturdy steel frame that is stable and highly durable.
- The bike is responsive with precision due to the 7-speed and Shimano rear derailleur.
- These 7-speed shifters allow you to adapt to all kinds of terrains and offer you a smooth ride.
- Moreover, the Fat tire of 26x4 inches is perfect for traction needs and balance on sand and snow.
- The saddle gives added support for comfortable long, arduous rides.
- It can cruise through all obstacles, given its fat tires, which makes it easy for every terrain, from snowy hills to rocky single tracks.
- Another great feature you get is the amazing colour range.
Specifications Of Mongoose Argus And Argus ST
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Suspension Type: Rigid
- Size: 18-Inch Frame
- Frame Material: Steel
- Brake: Mechanical Disc
- Tires: 24 in x 4.0 in, wire bead
- Fork: Hi-Ten steel
- Shifters: 7-speed
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
Argus is a great choice for riders with heights above 5 feet. It is perfect for you whether you are 5 feet or 6 feet tall. The bike's design is pretty versatile and is available in kids and youth sizes as well, making it an all-rounder.
Mongoose Dolomite Men's Fat Tire Bike
Mongoose Dolomite Mens Mountain Bike
Check out this amazing Super fat tire bike from one of the best mountain bike brands. The Dolomite has been on the market for some time and has maintained a reputation for a good reason.
The bike is amazingly designed without compromising performance and is available at a very affordable price range.
Features Of Mongoose Dolomite
- The Mongoose Dolomite is a lightweight mountain bicycle and is no less than a winner.
- The bike offers off-road capabilities and riding performance for the ultimate experience in biking.
- The 26x 4-inch tires offer you great stability and let you conquer all kinds of terrains.
- You also get extra width handles for overcoming bumps and obstacles on the road.
- Dual disc brakes are designed for safety and help you to stop precisely.
- The 7-speed rear derailleur is highly responsive.
- Changing gear on Mongoose Dolomite is not a problem due to the derailleur and twist shifters.
- The lightweight alloy rims provide great performance and speed due to the added stability.
Specifications Of Mongoose Dolomite
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Specific Use: For Trail
- Suspension Type: Rigid
- Lightweight
- Fat tire
- Number of Speeds: 7
- Size: 17-Inch/Medium
- Brakes: Dual Mechanical Disc Brakes
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
The bike is built with a steel frame and has alloy wheels for durability. You get amazing stand-out colours on the alloy rims of the tires. The bike also has a thread less headset for easy adjusting of the height. With all these features, you won't be able to refrain from getting this bike on the snow, dirt, mud, and city roads.
Women's Budget Mountain Bikes
Women’s mountain bicycles have a few strategic tweaks to their size and design, allowing them better to match a woman’s body in most cases. These two models are our favourites for a wide range of reasons.
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike
Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Buying an affordable beginner's full suspension bike shouldn't mean sacrificing quality.
Schwinn offers power-packed features with this bike that sets it apart from other options available in the market. The Schwinn timber also gives you a smooth and stable ride when you are riding off roads.
Features Of Schwinn High Timber
- The bike is designed with a high-quality steel frame that is made to last for a long time.
- The bike has an excellent gear system. It has a 21-speed available that is versatile enough to manage a variety of terrains.
- The shifting gears are smooth enough and provide an amazing experience.
- It is designed with a standard wheel size that is good for every mountain bike.
- The bike is designed with an ergonomic handlebar for the correct riding position.
- It also has an excellent grip which makes it easy to hold the handles as you ride.
- The suspensions absorb the forces from rough rides and offer you a smooth and stable ride throughout.
Specifications Of Schwinn High Timber
- Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches
- Suspension Type: Dual
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Size: 27.5-Inch Wheels
- Brakes: Alloy V linear brakes
- Saddle: padded saddle
- Tires: MTB tires/ 26 inches
- Frame: Schwinn mountain frame
- Fork: Schwinn suspension fork
- Weight: 42 lbs
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
The alloy crank system offers steady gear changes and lets you have low maintenance. The twist shifters, along with the rear derailleur, help you with quick changes of gear on extreme rides.
With easy height adjustments, it is also available with a limited lifetime warranty, as long as you own the bike. So, get out there and ride your Schwinn with much freedom.
Older Options To Consider Buying Second-Hand
Schwinn Moab 3 Adult Mountain Bike
Schwinn Moab 3 Adult Mountain Bike
Schwinn Moab 3 is a perfect bike for riders who are looking for serious mountain biking. If you are looking for a performance upgrade, then this is a great bike choice. Schwinn Moab 3 is the perfect choice when you have to head off the road for a great ride.
Features Of Schwinn Moab
- The bike is designed with a lightweight aluminium frame that is highly durable.
- It has a suspension fork and hydraulic disc brakes for maximum comfort and a smooth ride.
- The bike is also a great fit for small frame-fit riders of 53 to 57 inches in height.
- The bike has mountain-tuned N'LITENED 2 aluminium frames and Suntour XCT30 DS 100mm fork.
- These features offer a lightweight and responsive ride.
- With a 24-speed drivetrain and crank set, the bike offers a quick and precise shifting of the gears.
- The hydraulic brakes offer amazing stop power in extreme conditions.
- Its wide knobby tires provide added traction, which is great for a stable ride.
Specifications Of Schwinn Moab
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Suspension Type: Front
- Lightweight
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Size: Small
- Frame: N LITENED 2 aluminum
- Fork: SR Suntour XCT30 DS
- Chain: KMC Z8.1
- Brakes: Shimano BR-MT200
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
If you get the Schwinn Moab 3 Adult Mountain Bike, then you are getting a responsive and stable ride, precise gear shifts, aluminium frame, excellent stopping performance and many more attributes that turn into a great ride for you.
Merax 26" Mountain Bicycle - BEGINNER FRIENDLY
The Merax 26-Inch Aluminum Mountain Bike has incredible features and proportions that set it apart from the competition in the mountain riding world. It will enhance your outdoor experience and provide you with something to look forward to for many years.
Merax 26" Aluminum 24-Speed Mountain Bike
Equipped with a 26" aluminium suspension fork, aluminium alloy crank, and Shimano front & rear derailleur, this mountain bike is here to become your companion for every expedition. Merax 26" Mountain Bicycle is designed for entry-level mountain biking enthusiasts that meet all your riding needs.
Features Of Merax Mountain Bicycle
- The aluminium frame is nothing to get excited over, but it's not a clunky, light frame like you'll get with inferior bikes in its price range.
- It offers a responsive feel on the trail and doesn't weigh too much either.
- The Seat post is adjustable with an easy-to-use clamp, and the saddle itself is noticeably comfortable, far better than saddles you'll often find on bikes in higher price ranges.
- The gear system is made up of various Shimano components that result in smooth, quick, and precise 21 speeds.
- This precise feature also offers enough coverage to give you an ideal range of gears for everything from steep climbs to achieving higher speeds on long, flat surfaces.
- The wheelset is another aspect of the merax that is worthy of some attention.
- Merax uses its own double-walled aluminium rims, which come with 26 inch Kenda tires that give the bike plenty of traction on off-road surfaces, including rocky terrain.
Specifications Of Mountain Bicycle
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Suspension Type: Rear, Front, Dual
- Lightweight
- Included Components: Lock
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Frame: 6061 heat-treated aluminum
- Fork: Suspension fork alloy 80mm travel
- Wheels: Double-wall aluminum rims
- Brakes: Mechanical disc
- Product weight: 33 lbs
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Verdict
While the idea of linear-pull disc brakes on lower-priced bikes is usually a bad idea, it is not the same with the Merax. Shimano aluminium levers make controlling the mechanical disc brakes easy and smooth, without the need for excess pressure.
All in all, the Merax is easily one of the best entry-level, low-budget mountain bicycles that you can actually take out on a real single-track trail.
Why You Should Choose Your Mountain Bike Carefully
Mountain bikes have evolved so much that they now have a broad range of designs and attributes that cater to specific styles of riding and certain terrains as well.
Choosing the wrong type of bike can result in a diminished riding experience in more than a few ways; therefore, we suggest considering a few things to avoid such confusion or mistakes.
For instance, if you plan to only do some light cross country riding most of the time, and you purchase a downhill mountain bike, you'll be pretty miserable on the trail, as you're riding one that was designed for anything but flat and uneventful paths.
Careful choosing of a mountain bike also involves knowing the right size, and what components are most important to you when riding. This will help the bike to be more comfortable, perform better, and match your own riding style and preferences.
Follow all of these aspects, and you'll end up with the perfect mountain bike for you, while also getting the most for your money.
READ ALSO: giant rincon mountain bike
Common FAQs
If you are looking for hardtails then we recommend no less than $1,500 and if you are looking for full suspension then go no less than $2,000 to $2,500.
They are just called entry or beginner bikes, they are true mountain bike that all riders can start with.
These bikes are performance-based and make your ride more enjoyable and easy.
Mountain biking trails have more sharp and steep turns and climb, while roads are more consistent grades. A road ride in the mountains is generally more difficult than an MTB ride on rail-road trails.
If you want a comfortable ride then a full-suspension bike is a great choice. It will soak up all the bumps and shocks that may affect your body while riding.
It also helps you to ride faster and for longer hours.
You can find mountain bikes in the range of $3,500 to $6,000.
You can have great bikes under $500 as well. All it takes good research.
Conclusion
We hope you've arrived at this point with a better understanding of what goes into your shopping cart for the best entry-level mountain bike and how to start looking for yourself.
Whichever bike you end up with, always make sure that it has the key aspects you are looking for. While size plays an important role, the right price tag is also crucial for a better purchasing experience. If you're looking for the best beginner mountain bike, this guide should help.
Have any bikes you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below, and we'll consider reviewing it!
Read Also – Specialized Hardrock Mountain Bike
In A Hurry? The Test Winner After 35 Hours Of Research:
CO-OP CYCLES DRT 1.0 BIKE - BikesReviewed.com
Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike
Why is it better?