The Best Mountain Bikes Under $500
So you want to have some fun riding rougher terrain, and maybe even get into the mountains. The fact that you’re looking at this page probably means you’re just getting started and are looking around for your first mountain bike.
Mongoose Flatrock 21-Speed Hardtail Mountain Bike
311 ratings (4.1 stars) on Amazon
$309.99
This lightweight 21-speed bike is a great introduction to the world of mountain biking. While it’s certainly nothing fancy, it has all the basics you need to hit the trail and get some offroad experience. And Mongoose is a trusted brand that is known for high-quality mountain bikes. If you’re just looking for a little fun, this will probably last you a while. If you have dreams of becoming a mountain biking expert, then you will eventually need to upgrade to something more suitable. This is hardtail bike, which means it has no rear suspension. The advantage with a hardtail is that it’s more lightweight and less expensive, but that lack of extra suspension can make a big difference in the overall experience.
Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Mountain Bike
1,220 ratings (4.0 stars) on Amazon
$473.24
Yes, another 21-speed Mongoose. This bike features 29-inch wheels and a quick-release front wheel. Unlike the previous Mongoose bike, this one also has rear suspension, which significantly improves the smoothness of the ride and the overall experience on the trail. At 44 pounds, it may be a bit heavy for some users. But that’s the price you pay for an upgrade. This model should fit riders between 5’4″ and 6’2″ tall.
Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike
64 ratings (4.2 stars) on Amazon
$421.70
Schwinn is another reputable brand that is well known for high-quality bikes. The Bonafide comes with 29-inch wheels, 24 speeds, and a light aluminum frame. It’s also suitable for riders 5’4″ to 6’2″ inches tall. It’s another hardtail bike, but it comes with a powerful front suspension.
Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Bike
3,523 ratings (4.4 stars) on Amazon
$493.66
Admittedly, the fat tires are a bit of a fad. But they’re not totally just for aesthetics. Fat tires are great for snow and sand and generally offer more all-terrain versatility. It’s a 7-speed bike and a hardtail, which is why it still manages to be affordable. Seven speeds might not sound like much, but if you’re just starting out, you’re not going to need more than that. This is another great option for beginner mountain bikers, and being a Mongoose, you can count on the quality. Keep in mind that the bike tops out at a whopping 52 pounds. If you’re up for the challenge, go ahead, but if you don’t think you can lug that kind of weight around, you might want to look at other options.
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These are all great bikes for beginners, but it’s important to remember that mountain bikes are on another level compared to hybrid bikes. If you’re really wanting a truly durable reliable, high-quality bike that will last, you need to increase your budget to $1,000 or more. But these bikes can help you get in the game and decide whether mountain biking or trail riding is something you’ll want to invest more time in.
And remember to always bring your bike to a professional mechanic before riding. Bike mechanics are tricky and not as easy as they may seem. Only a professional will be able to look over the bike and see any potential problems, saving you a lot of hassle in the future.