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Mountain bikes can be a huge amount of fun but trying to find the best beginner mountain bike can be tough. There are many different good beginner mountain bikes so how do you decide which one is right for you?
That’s where we wanted to help. We’ve come up with a list of the 6 best mountain bikes for beginners and have also come up with a buying guide to give you all the info you need.
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What makes a good entry level mountain bike? Well, despite the lower cost, you still want it to have high quality. You’ll also be looking to make sure it’s easy to ride while wanting the best specs possible. We’ve taken all of this into account when creating our list to find the best mountain bike for beginners.
All you need to do now is read on and choose the best starter mountain bike for you. Let’s go!
Types of Mountain Bikes –
Downhill – These bikes are designed for riding downhill and therefore have large tires and a full suspension.
All-mountain – These are similar to downhill bikes but have better capability for going uphill.
Cross-country – This type of mountain bike is great for climbing and are often light, has very smooth shifts, and are often expensive.
Trail – These are the best beginner bikes as they are all-around performers and usually much cheaper as pure performance isn’t a priority.
Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners-
1. Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike
This bike is excellent for off-road adventures. The SR Suntour suspension forks will give you 100mm of travel for a smooth ride and improved control on your bike. The bike frame Co-op Cycles is 6061 aluminum, and it comes with an external headset.
The handlebar shape is flat, and the seat post has 27.2 diameters. It has front bike suspension and Shimano Rapidfire Plus shifters. The crankset Shimano Tourney is 42-34-24, and the bottom bracket has a Cartridge bearing square.
It comes with a front and rear hub. The tires are Kenda Kedre with a 2.1-inch tire width. The chain is KMC 7-speed, and saddles are WTB Volt Sport with Co-op Cycles pedals. The outstanding feature of this bike is that it is unisex, so males and females can ride on it without any restrictions.
Key Features:
- The Shimano Tourney rear derailleur delivers smooth and precise gear changes for a smooth ride
- This bike has Tektro hydraulic disc brakes that deliver reliable stopping power on or off-road, regardless of weather conditions, so you do not have to worry about getting stuck in bad weather conditions
- This bike has SR Suntour suspension forks that deliver 100mm of travel for a smooth ride and improved control on the bike
- Shimano 3 x 7 drivetrains provide different gears for power uphill and speed down the hill
- The bicycle weight limit is 300 lbs in total, including the rider and all the gear carried on the bike and the rider's body
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: 27.5 inches
- Weight: 31 lbs. 10 oz.
- Suspension: Hardtail
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Gear Speeds: 21
Pros
- 21 gears
- Unisex
- High quality wheels
- Pedals give excellent control
cons
- Replacement or installation of new components or accessories is not included
Final Verdict –
This is a great bike for mountain and trail biking. This bike has a 3 x 7 drivetrain and the reliable stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. This bike gives the new riders the right amount of control for a smooth ride.
2. Ancheer Power Plus
This 64.4-inch mountain bicycle is made up of high-quality, durable aluminum alloy and carbon steel. It has a 21-speed transmission system and a unique combination of 15 mph top speed, off-rode capability, and stealthy frame design.
It has a quiet motor operation that is suitable for both urban and trail environments. It has a 26-inch wheel diameter, 30.4-39 inch seat height, and 26.7 handlebar length. It will give you 25 km mileage with a fully charged battery, and the weight of the vehicle is about 20 kg.
It has a front fork, high-strength carbon steel comfort shock absorption, and high-quality lithium tires. You can customize the bike with an adjustable seat and enjoy your smooth and comfortable with significant control. You can choose any speed, and the brakes will provide you great safety in your journey.
Also, check out the detailed ancheer mountain bike review.
Key Features:
- Its waterproof level is IPX4
- The three-meter operations low, medium and meter can be changed easily
- It has two working modes, e-bike & assisted bicycle
- It has a 36V, 8AH Ion lithium removable battery
- It comes with front, and rear disc brakes and a 21-speed transmission system, and the bright LED headlamp are equipped for night riding
- This bike is made up of high-quality material. It has a 100 percent aluminum alloy frame, and the front fork is made of high-strength carbon steel and packed with premium comfort shock absorption
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: 26 inches
- Weight: 44 lbs.
- Suspension: Hardtail
- Frame Material: Aluminum alloy frame
- Gear Speeds: 21 speed
Pros
- Durable build quality
- Two working modes
- Bright LED headlamp and horn
- 4-6 hours charging time
cons
- Assembly required
Final Verdict –
A fun bike to ride up steep hills. It is made up of high-quality material with front and rear disc brakes and a 21-speed transmission system. Easy to ride with great control and two working modes, so you can switch between an e-bike and assisted bicycle.
3. Marlin 4
The Marlin 4 is the perfect mountain bike for trail riding. It is mostly ideal for new riders who want to have a mountain bike with knobby tires that can also serve as a rugged commuter. The disc brakes, front suspension, 21 speeds, and the mounts for a rack and fenders make this bike ideal for new riders and campus commuters.
If you are looking for a great introductory bike with a great price for a rugged campus commuter, this bike is definitely for you. This bike is great for riders with an adventurous spirit. It has a lightweight aluminum frame with internal routing that protects your cables and gives the bike a sleek appearance.
It has 21 speeds gear and the right gear for your terrain. It also comes with powerful mechanical disc brakes and suspension forks that take the edge off bumps and rough terrain.
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: 29 inches
- Weight: 30.82 lbs.
- Suspension: Hardtail
- Frame Material: Alpha Silver Aluminum
- Gear Speeds: 21 speeds
Key Features:
- Backed by Trek's lifetime warranty
- The Marlin models in XS and S frame sizes have a curved top tube and a lower standover for small rider mount and dismount
- Smaller frame sizes (XS and S) have short-reach brake making it easier and comfortable for riders with small hands
- It can be used as a rugged commuter due to rack and fender mounts
- Perfectly suited to daily commute rides around campus or just getting from one place to another
Pros
- Great fit for every rider
- Great as a good starter bike
- Weight limit of 300 pounds
- Marlin 6 and 7 can be upgraded
cons
- The seat can be uncomfortable
Final Verdict –
It comes in different levels so you choose your level bases on age and your riding comfort level. If you are going on a long ride, you can easily carry your accessories on the rack mounts with no problems and enjoy your long ride. It is great for a quick run to the grocery store or running errands.
4. Cannondale Trail 8
The Cannondale Trail 8 is the bike for you if you’re on the lookout for the perfect beginner ride. It has everything a beginner can ask for; durable build, low price, and amazing components.
This bike is praised by many for its handling. It is not a light and small bike, however, its build and features allow it to be swift and an easy ride on and off trails.
The Cannondale Trail 8 is a very versatile bike, it can be used for different activities such as casual riding, weight loss, trail biking, and much more. Therefore, it’s a bike built to ignite your passion for the trail and is designed to be ready for anything.
Key Features:
- Lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to transport, ride, and carry if need be
- A slack of 68 degrees provides exceptional stability while riding up and down slopes and rough trails
- Tektro mechanical disc brakes allow for a powerful and reliable halt in any condition
- SR Suntour M3030 suspension fork assures more control, less impact of bumps, and absorbs shock
- SAVE micro-suspension delivers a smooth and controlled ride due to the clever engineering of flex zones built in the bike's rear triangle area
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: Smallest frame - 27.5”, larger frame- 29”
- Weight: 32 lbs. 14.4 oz.
- Suspension: Hardtail
- Frame Material: SmartForm C3 alloy aluminum
- Gear Speeds: 7-speed (14 gears)
Pros
- Affordable price
- Compact with dirt-tailored geometry
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Lightweight frame
cons
- The steel rails can become a bit uncomfortable
Final Verdict –
The Cannondale Trail 8 is an amazing bike for a beginner who does not want to invest a lot of money but still works with trail bike features. Moreover, it is known for its versatility and can be used by anyone ranging from regular bikers to trail bikers. Overall, this bike has been given an 8.4 out of 10 ratings.
5. Mongoose Impasse
The Mongoose Impasse is a good investment as it brings quality to the ride and makes your experience enjoyable and memorable. The gears are perfect and allow the rider to easily shift gears. The derailleur plays a vital role in accuracy, speed, and, more power.
Coming from a very reputable brand, the Impasse can be considered a reliable bike that will not break down when the trails get rough. If you are in the market for an overachieving bike, the 29- inch Mongoose Impasse will never disappoint with its dual suspension and many more features that are suitable for entry-level mountain bikers.
The bike has adjustable dual disk brakes that are made to give the rider an impressive reduction in speed irrespective of the terrain and weather conditions. Dual brakes allow the rider more power in stopping with the limited effort involved. This bike is easy on the wallet while also impressing the buyer with similar features to bike double and even triple its price.
Key Features:
- Quality 29-inch alloy wheels make it perfect to ride on almost any terrain
- Brilliant alloy front and back disk brakes
- Smooth and efficient gear shifting with the mountain bike has a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur, MTB front derailleur, and SRAM MRX twist shifters
- Dual suspension with a fork offers more comfort on rugged bumpy roads and trails
- The aluminum solid frame is durable and lightweight to ride and carry
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: 29 inches
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Suspension: Hardtail
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Gear Speeds: 21
Pros
- Sturdy design
- Versatility in use
- Affordable price
- Quality brakes
cons
- A few parts of the bike are not up to par in quality
Final Verdict –
For someone who is looking for an affordable bike for beginners with promising experience and reliability, the 29-inch Mongoose Impasse is the ideal option.
6. Schwinn S29
Schwinn has been in the market for more than 125 years and has been producing high-quality bikes since the start. They are trustworthy for giving customers bikes that satisfy the needs and wants of any use and age group.
Its aluminum frame makes the bike strong enough to handle any rigorous terrain and is very lightweight and hence not a burden to ride or carry. The gears are also impressive as the SRAM 3.0 shifters have front and back ShimanocTZ-30 derailleurs making shifting gears easier and more efficient.
The Schwinn S29 is an affordable mountain bike with features and specs that makes it outstanding.
Specifications:
- Wheel Diameter: 29 inches
- Weight: 39.5 lbs
- Suspension: Full suspension
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Gear Speeds: 21
Key Features:
- Finding front and rear suspension in beginner bikes is rare, the Schwinn S29 ensures the rider a smooth ride when riding over bumpy trails and roads
- The hydraulic disc brakes allow immediate halt when needed no matter what the speed of the rider is
- Alloy 29-inch wheels allow the rider to ride on any terrain with comfort and ease.
- 21- speed trigger shifters
- Tough aluminum Frame
Pros
- Sturdy design
- Amazing shock absorption
- Affordable price
- Capable of very high speeds and comfortable to ride
cons
- Bulky size
Final Verdict –
The Schwinn S29 is an amazing option as it is durable, versatile, and has outstanding performance. It can be used for riding on almost any terrain making it the perfect bike for many different uses. It may not be the cheapest beginner mountain bike in the market, however, you are getting good value for the money you’re paying.
What Factors To Look For In Beginner Mountain Bikes?
- Type
The first thing you need to know is what type of mountain bike you should get. As a beginner, a trail bike is usually going to be the best solution. While that’s true, you should factor in where you’re most likely going to be riding into your buying decision.
- Suspension
A beginner mountain bike is likely to have a hardtail suspension, which is where you just have a suspension on the front wheel. Full suspension models are usually more expensive but you will find some in the beginner range. These are best to absorb impacts from more demanding trails.
- Wheel Size
26” wheels are perfect for maneuverability and acceleration but absorb more impacts. 29″ wheels are a little slower but cope very well with obstacles and have a high level of grip. Between that, you have 27.5″ wheels which are seen as the best of both worlds. Many beginners prefer a large wheel but you may want to opt for a higher level of agility.
- Frame Material
For a beginner bike, you’ll want it to be highly durable. A strong frame is crucial for that and they’ll usually be made out of steel or aluminum. While steel can be very strong, it’s also heavy. It’s best to look for a bike with an aluminum frame.
- Budget
How serious are you going to be about mountain biking? If you know the bike is going to be well used, then it may be worth it to get something a little more expensive. If you’re not sure, then it’s best to stick with a budget model.
How to Dress For an Entry Level Mountain Bike?
Helmet- Mountain biking helmets usually provide more coverage than regular helmets. Make sure to get a high-quality one as the chance of crashes on trails is higher than on the roads. If going downhill at high speeds, consider a full-face helmet.
Goggles/glasses- It’s great to get a pair if you’re going to have the sun in your eyes or you’re riding through anywhere dusty.
Jersey- You should wear a top that provides some protection while also being light and breathable. There are some great jerseys made specifically for mountain biking.
Shorts– You’ll want to make sure your legs aren’t restricted. This means either baggy shorts or tight ones with plenty of stretch. In colder conditions, get a pair of loose waterproof pants.
Gloves and Pads– Gloves are essential to not only protect your hands in crashes but also prevent blisters and sores. Knee pads are also a great idea and there are plenty of options out there that are fairly low profile and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Here we have carefully selected six models that are perfect for beginners. All you need to do is pick the right one for you, matching your needs. Any of the models we looked at here would make a brilliant beginner mountain bike.
A good entry level mountain bike will still be more expensive than a regular bike. If you wanted a model of high quality, then you can expect to pay around $500. If you wanted to pay a little more than that, then there are some brilliant models over $1,000.
We loved all of the bikes we reviewed in this list. If we had to pick one, then it would be the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike. We thought it had brilliant features and came at a great price.
Mountain bikes need to be made to a higher standard than most other bikes. They need suspension systems and also high-performance brakes. Added to this they need a very high level of durability and build quality to deal with the demands of a trail.
Like with anything, being an expert mountain biker will take time. You can go at your own pace and ride easy trails at the start before advancing to something more difficult. After a while, you can step up to something a little more difficult.
Final Verdict
Hopefully by now you have a clear idea of the best entry level mountain bike for you. We’ve looked at some great options here but everyone is different. You should choose one that matches your style and the trails you want to ride on.
Getting one of the best mountain bikes for beginners is the first step to becoming a master on the mountains. It might start with a good beginner mountain bike but soon enough you’ll be racing downhill and loving the thrill. All that’s left to do is choose your favorite bike and get out there.
