Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000

Off-road cycling has become a favorite activity for many that are chasing their fitness goals. For some, it is a fun experience taking on adventures and ticking off their bucket lists. As a newbie, you might be wondering what you need to start enjoying such experiences. Without a doubt, a mountain bike is an initial investment you need to make. But, how do you select the best mountain bike?

The amount of money you are going to spend will depend on many factors. Mainly, the model will determine the price range. What you can be sure of is that you can get a good bike on a budget. There are many options under the $1000 cutoff, but still, you need to confirm the quality of the parts used.

Mountain bikes under $1,000 are more commonly referred to as ‘hardtails’. This means that the suspension is only on the front wheel. Mountain bikes over $1,000 will have or should have suspension on the front and back.

Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000

What is a Hardtail Mountain Bike?

Designed for handling tough terrains, the frame of these bikes are generally more upright. Why are they referred to as hardtail? This is because the rear doesn’t have suspension so this is where the bike is ‘driven from’. The front suspension works to soften the vibrations and bumps along the path.

Additionally, hardtail’s have a fairly high clearance, this makes them easier to ride over logs, rocks and other large obstacles. The front suspension buffers the bumps and stress along the way which at least makes the ride comfortable for you.

As well as the suspension the tires are typically wider and knobby which directly relates to improved grip and traction. Rims and spokes tend to be stronger than other bikes in order to handle the rough terrain as well.

There are more gears on a hardtail mountain bike which make it easy to get through tough hill climbs and other sticky situations.

1. Diamondback Overdrive

Diamondback bicycles are some of the most popular types owing to the high performance. This model comes below the $1000 mark hence suitable for a beginner or someone looking for a budget-friendly option.

Key Features

• 6060-T alloy frame
• Custom formed and butted tubing
• 5-inch wheels
• Three gears in the front
• Eight gears in the back
• 24 speeds to choose from
• Shimano drivetrain

It’s fitted with a coil spring fork with 80 mm travel to soak up bumpy terrain for a more controlled ride. This helps to reduce fatigue when riding on uneven terrains. It comes with a Shimano drivetrain that provides a wide range of gears to keep you cranking up the hills comfortably.

The disc-brakes are made for high performance and provide the stopping power for comfortable riding regardless of the terrain. The aluminum frame is lightweight to maneuver around for smooth riding and comfort.

Pros

• Easy to put together
• Impressive gear shifters
• The brakes work well
• Lightweight construction
• Sturdy and stable

Cons

• The tires need alignment before use

This Diamondback is the best for off-road riding; thanks to the high-performance gear shifters and lightweight frame.

2. Schwinn High Timber

The Schwinn High Timber is the first budget one to make this list. More so for casual riding, this bike will handle off-road trails to a certain extent.

Key Features

• Steel-frame
• Front suspension fork
• Alloy V Brakes
• Alloy wheels
• 3 piece alloy crank
• Available in black or white
• Limited lifetime warranty

The Schwinn High Timber is a budget choice that is good for absolute beginners. Don’t expect too much performance from this one but the suspension at the front will smooth out your rides.

Measuring at 18″ it’s classified as medium size.

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• 21-speed
• Shimano twist shifters – 21-speed
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Heavy

The Schwinn High Timber is a great entry-level bike for those who aren’t too serious about mountain biking.

If you do the occasional off-road trails then it will be a lot more comfortable than a standard bicycle but if you are more serious about mountain biking then opt for a different model.

3. Diamondback Hook

Mountain bikes should have high-quality components to ensure it can last a long time. This Diamond Hook is an ideal choice; thanks to the quality construction and premium materials.

Key Features

• Material: Aluminum
• Size: 16”, 18”, 20”, 22”
• 5” wheels
• Max user weight: 300lbs

It’s designed to provide you with a smooth experience riding on different terrains. The quality aluminum construction is sturdy and durable to serve you for an extended time without the need for multiple repairs. Also, the design makes it lightweight to carry around for far-away adventures. Each component of this bike is up to standard and works as expected to give you the best ride.

One good thing about this model is that it has several sizes to suit individual needs. The smallest size is 16” and suits people as short as 5’4” to 5’7”. The medium size is 18 inches and works well for people from 5’7” to 5’ 10”. The extra-large caters to the needs of super tall people and works well for those as tall as 6’4”. This sizing makes it suitable for use by everyone as long as they get the right one for the size.

It comes preassembled, so you have fewer hassles trying to put it together. It is packaged in a box, and you only need to put together a few movable parts. This process only takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on your skill level. With the instructions provided, you can assemble quickly. However, it is essential to take it to a local bike store to ascertain that it is well assembled for safety.

Pros

• High-quality construction
• Premium materials
• Effective brake system
• Variety of sizes
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Only eight speeds for the rear

The Diamond Hook is a suitable choice for moderate difficulty cycling. It works well on rough terrains and down hills with the right gear choice. It is recommended for its quality construction and stability.

4. Gravity FSX 1.0

For mountain bikes, the rim is one of the essential components that make it fully functional. This one Gravity has high-quality rims that bear the strength to handle rough cycling.

Key Features

• Material: Aluminum
• Size: 15”, 17”, 19”,21”
• Disc-brakes
• 24-speed

The bike has an advanced aluminum construction to ensure it lasts a long time. The design is lightweight and makes it easy for you to carry it around when you need it. It features 24 speeds and is a dual-suspension road-bike for improved performance. It has a single pivot technology and an adjustable rear coil-over cartridge shock.

It has a Shimano drivetrain and an adjustable front shock. The mechanical disc brakes are effective in maintaining the right control as you ride. The brakes also help to make emergency stops without putting extra pressure on the brake bars.

The Gravity FSX comes in different sizes to suit your needs. It has an extra-small size that works well with people up to 5’6″ tall. The small size also works as a medium and has a stand-over of 27.5″. This one works for people up to 5’8″ tall. The largest size has a 30.5″ stand-over and is designed for people taller than 6’1″. The wide variation in size makes it suitable for everyone.

Pros

• Easy assembly
• Quality brake system
• Comfortable seat and handlebars
• Easy-to-change gears

Cons

• Not suitable for extremely rough terrains

The Gravity is suitable for regular trail cycling, daily commutes, and occasional uphill rides. It is recommended for the quality construction, and the fact that it has full-suspension is an advantage.

5. Schwinn Traxion

On average, mountain bikes should provide you with a smooth riding experience. This Schwinn Traxion is designed to give you a seamless experience setting it up and cycling for an extended period of use.

Key Features

• Material: Aluminum
• Size: 18”
• 29” wheels
• Mechanical disc brakes
• 24 speeds

It has a dual-suspension with powerful Schwinn suspension fork soak up bumps and thumps. These features aim to provide you with a smooth ride for an extended period. The bike has 24 speeds and features EZ-fire trigger shifters. Also, it has rear Shimano derailleurs which make the gear change process manageable and effective.

This number from Schwinn also features front and rear mechanical disc brakes. These provide proper control when riding on different speeds. Also, the brakes work smoothly in all conditions when you need to stop irrespective of the gear you choose. The rims are extra-wide, light and robust to provide the right balance and last a long time with minimal maintenance.

Since you are likely to take on adventures on bumpy terrains, it has 2.25 wide knobby tires to ensure you are comfortable. Also, the design ensures the tires can handle the bumps and uneven surfaces for a smooth ride.

This bike is easy to put together with minimal tools and a few steps. With this bike you will not have to worry about the many times you have to repair and replace parts; it is designed for the long-term.

Pros

• Comfortable seat and handlebars
• Easy-to-change gears
• A variety of speeds
• Effective brake system
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Slight noise when switching gears

The Schwinn Traxion is at the top-of-the-list with its design and quality construction. It has a fully functional brake system making it ideal to use on different terrains. It is recommended for its strength and stability on different surfaces.

6. Women’s Kent KZR

If you are looking for something you can ride on and off the road, then the Kent KZR is the right choice for you. It has the stability need for different terrains.

Key Features

• Material: Aluminum
• Size: 26”
• 21 speeds
• Disc brakes

It’s designed to take you on an adventure as well as help you get to work or the food store. The sturdy aluminum construction makes it suitable to ride on any roads and terrains. Also, it is super light so you can carry it around or transport it away from home when needed. Every component of the bike I designed with comfort and effectiveness in mind to give you the best riding experience.

It comes with a 21-speed drivetrain with a Shimano rear derailleur to help you shift with ease. As you ride, you need to have the right control, especially on rough downhills. The bike has a high stopping power to make emergency stops and keep you on the right track.

The front cable-actuated disc brake and the rear linear-pull handbrake will help to make a safe stop and keep the control on bumpy roads. The wheels of this bike are stable enough to keep you tracking straight and maintain the balance. It is comfortable to put together and guarantees durability with the right care.

Pros

• Sturdy construction
• Easy to assemble and start
• Effective gears
• Variety of speeds
• Durable parts

Cons

• Not suitable for women under 5’2”

The Kent KZR is undoubtedly an excellent choice for women that love off-road cycling. It is recommended for its sturdy construction and the quality parts.

7. Schwinn Protocol

Although each part of a mountain bike is crucial, the rims and wheels play a significant role to ensure you have a comfortable ride. The Schwinn Protocol delivers to the promise for a long-term fix to your cycling problems.

Key Features

• Material: Aluminum
• Size: 26”
• 24 speeds
• Disc brakes

This bike has an aluminum dual-suspension design which makes it super light to carry around. It features sturdy construction to ensure it lasts a long time in the right condition. Also, the construction ensures it can withstand any bumps and jumps that you are likely to encounter off the road. The front fork of the bike absorbs the thumps, so your shoulders and arms don’t have to bear the strain.

The Schwinn protocol has 24-speed Shimano shifters and derailleur. These parts are known for their superior quality and efficiency in ensuring you have a smooth experience riding. These speeds will come in handy when you want to climb up-hill and maneuver the toughest ravines without straining to make a shift.

When riding on rough terrains and steep hills, you will need the right control to stay on track. The front disc brake and the rear alloy linear-pull brake will help you keep the control and maintain the balance. Also, these brakes will come in handy when you need to make an emergency stop, especially on steep trails. It is undoubtedly the perfect choice for mountain biking at a budget you can afford.

Pros

• Great quality for the money
• Solid for trail cycling
• Simple assembly
• High-quality parts
• Highly-functional brakes

Cons

• The rear brakes need regular adjustment

The Schwinn Protocol is an excellent choice for someone looking for a fully functional bike for different purposes. It works well on the road and performs reasonably well on rough terrains. It is recommended for its quality parts and the value for money.

8. Kingttu EURG6

One of the qualities of an ideal mountain bike is the dual suspension feature. The Kingttu EURG6 has this design which makes it super easy to carry and move around when needed.

Key Features

• Material: Steel
• Size: 17” frame
• 26” wheel
• Mechanical Aluminum disc brake
• 21 speed

It has a high-quality steel frame to last an extended period. Although steel can be heavy, this bike has a dual suspension feature which makes it pretty light to carry around. You can take it easily to your cycling spot with ease. The Kingttu has premium quality components to ensure you have a comfortable riding experience. It has a soft MTB seat and a 26” kickstand.

Other elements include a steel suspension fork, 26” wheels and a magnesium alloy 3-spoke integrated rim. Another essential component is the mechanical aluminum disc brakes. It comes in handy when you need to stop and ensures you keep the control required when cycling off-road. It has Shimano shifters and derailleurs for both the front and rear. These are known for their superior quality and efficiency.

The Kingttu EURG6 is easy to assemble. It comes 85% assembled, and you only need to attach the movable parts. That is the front wheel, handlebar, seat, and air up the tires for full functionality of the bike. The process takes a few minutes, but it is crucial to take it for inspection to ensure every part is well-installed.

Pros

• High-quality construction
• Responsive brakes
• Easy assembly
• Stable and sturdy

Cons

• Brakes and gears need tuning after installation.

The Kingttu EURG6 is a suitable choice for someone looking for a like that can work well with different terrains. It boasts of highly-responsive brakes although they might need tuning before cycling. It is recommended for its quality parts and great value for money.

9. Merax Falcon

The Merax Falcon is one of the best options under $1000. It comes with fantastic features that enhance its functionality and durability.

Key Features

• Dual-suspension design
• Fitted 21-speed derailleurs and shifters
• Linear pull breaks
• Ideal for beginners
• Maximum weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Available in two designs

The falcon comes with a high-quality heat-treated alloy to ensure it holds up well with regular use. It is robust yet lightweight enough to move around without compromising on the durability of the features. It has Shimano derailleurs and shifters, which are known to be some of the best in performance.

With the dual-suspension design, it maneuvers bumps while riding increasing control for smooth riding on different terrains. It also has linear-pull breaks that are fitted, which enhance stopping power for safer emergency stops. It is designed to suit beginners and has features that are easy to figure out for convenient use.

Pros

• Great value for money
• Easy to assemble
• Rides smoothly
• Stylish design
• High-quality frame

Cons

• A little heavy to carry around

The Merax Falcon is designed to last longer while providing the best riding experience. With these high-quality features, this bike can work well as a beginner bike.

10. Mongoose Dolomite

You can never go wrong with a fat-tire. This one from Mongoose is designed to maneuver different terrains without compromising on comfort when riding.

Key Features

• High-tensile steel frame
• 7-speed drivetrain
• Mechanical Disc brakes
• 26-inch wheels
• Available in different color combos

If you are looking for a MTB to use in the dirt, on the trails or off the ramps, this is the right bet. It comes with a steel frame that gives it the strength while ensuring it holds up well when used on different terrains. The supersized all-terrain knobby tires come in handy to ensure you maintain the balance even when riding on a bumpy trail.

It is fitted with a Shimano rear derailleur with seven speeds that make it easy to climb hills and maneuver easily. Also, it has twist shifters That make is smooth and easy to change gears when needed. The headset is adjustable to accommodate people of different heights for comfortable riding.

Pros

• High-quality components
• Ideal for all-terrain riding
• Comfortable saddle
• Sturdy steel construction
• Lightweight

Cons

• A little challenging to change gears on hilly terrains

This Mongoose is stable for tall and big people; thanks to the fat-tire design.

11.Vilano 2.0

Vilano has some of the best budget-friendly bikes on the market. This model features high-quality components that ensure functionality without compromising on riding comfort.

Key Features

• Double-butted aluminum frame
• Suspension fork with lockout
• Mechanical disc brakes
• Magnesium alloy wheels
• Shimano 21-speed drivetrain

The style of this bike is outstanding and looks like the high-end models you would otherwise spend thousand on. It is designed for high-performance and style to give you all-in-one satisfaction when riding. It comes with a high-quality frame that is lightweight for easy carrying and convenience.

The bike has mechanical disc brakes which are known for their excellent stopping power. This means that you can make emergency stops without worrying about any impact. The wheels are built to last with the magnesium alloy construction, which also contributes to the stability while riding. The Shimano drivetrain comes with 21 speeds that are easy to switch to suit the terrain.

Pros

• Solid construction
• Great value for money
• Ideal for beginners
• Rides smoothly
• Shifts quickly

Cons

• Needs heavy tuning before use

It is a suitable mountain bike for someone looking for functionality on a budget. The bike is recommended for its high-quality construction that makes it stable for all-terrain riding.

12. 2020 Gravity FSX 2.0

The 2020 Gravity FSX 2.0 comes in a simple design that makes it easy to use for beginners as well as advanced mountain bike users.

Key Features

• Dual suspension design
• Lockout rear shock
• Shimano 24-Speed
• 26-inch tires

This mountain bike comes with an advanced aluminum frame that is not only lightweight but sturdy to hold up despite regular use. The frame is designed to help you maneuver different terrains without compromising on your comfort. With the durable double-wall rims, this bike is quite stable when riding off the trail.

It comes with Shimano Acera 24-speed shifters that give you a wide range of gears to maneuver different terrains comfortably. This makes it a suitable bike to ride on hilly terrains as well as regular tarmac without having to put extra effort into smooth riding.

Pros

• Ideal for all-terrain riding
• Lightweight
• Stable design
• Easy to assemble
• Easy to change gears

Cons

• The chain needs replacement

The 2020 Gravity FSX 2.0 is ideal for occasional riding and has proven to work well on different terrains with little configuration to suit terrains.

13. Eurobike EURX9

The Eurobike EURX9 stands out from the usual mountain bikes. It gives you a seamless riding experience; thanks to the high-quality components.

Key Features

• 29-inch magnesium alloy wheels
• 19-inches aluminum frame
• 21-speed Shimano gears
• Dual Disc brakes
• Free pedals
• Comfortable seat

The bike is built for durability and convenience. It comes with 29-inch wheels that are made of a sturdy magnesium alloy. This material enhances control when riding, regardless of the terrain conditions. It has an aluminum frame which is lightweight for comfortable riding and easy maneuvering.

The mountain bike is fitted with Shimano gears which come with 21 speeds. These give you a wide range of gears to choose from depending on the terrain conditions. Also, they are built to ensure reliable shifting for easy use. With the dual disc brakes, you get more controlled stopping power for safe stops.  The seat is comfortable and comes as part of the package.

Pros

• High-quality construction
• Stylish and unique
• Easy to assemble
• Lightweight

Cons

• The chain pops out with high speeds

This Eurobike is one of the budget-friendly options that take the form of high-end mountain bikes. It comes with fantastic components that contribute to its functionality.

14. Mongoose Men’s Tyax SUPA

The Mongoose Mens Tyax has an XC aluminum hardtail frame with an SR Suntour 100mm travel fork suspension. With a lockout and rebound adjustment, it is forgiving yet responsive.

Key Features

• Lightweight
• Shimano Deore/Micro Shift 2 x 10 drivetrain
• Alivio shifters
• WTB Trailblaze 27.5 x 2.8″ tires
• Hydraulic disc-brakes with 180mm rotors
• FSA comet boost crank

Designed for smooth riding without compromising on strength and comfort this is a quality choice. Suitable for hardpack singletrack and everything in between, it is very versatile.

With plus-sized tires there is plenty of traction on steep climbs and it handles well on steep and bumpy descents. Plus-size wheels and tires are still the typical 27.5 inches in size but offer more width- these are 2.8″ wide. Significantly larger than a standard tire yet still smaller than the fat bikes.

With Shimano hydraulic disc-brakes along with 180 mm rotors mean stopping in all weather conditions is easy. 

The FSA Comet Boost crank and gearing make for more efficient pedaling on those challenging trails. 

Pros

• Lightweight
• Reputable brand
• Plus-size tires
• Hydraulic disc-brakes

Cons

• Only available in medium

The Mongoose Mens Tyax offers a well priced and highly responsive option with a high level of comfort and forgiveness. The drive train offers quick-shifting as well as optimal gearing for all different terrains. The extra-wide or plus-sized tires make for extra traction and stability.

15. Raleigh Tokul 2

The Raleigh Tokul 2 is another great option for under $1,000. Slightly less popular than the Diamondback but still boasting many great features.

Key Features

• Designed for rough terrain 
• Lightweight
• 120mm travel fork
• 1 x 9 drive train
• Tektro hydraulic disc brake
• Kenda Honey Badger 27.5 x 2.2-inch tires
• Different sizing options available

The Raleigh Tokul 2 has a total weight of 29.6 pounds which appeals to many customers. The other feature is that it is available in different sizes. The size guide is s-5’3″-5’6″, m=5’6″-5’9″, l=5’9″-6′, xl=6′-6’4″. 

Included are the Kenda Honey Badger 27.5 x 2.2 tires as well as Weinmann U28, 27.5inch, 32mmH x 28mmW rims.

The Raleigh comes partially assembled but will still take anywhere from 30minutes to 120minutes to assemble.

Pros

• Excellent brakes
• Lightweight
• Handles all terrains well
• Different sizing options available
• 120mm suspension

Cons

• Low on gears
• Issues with suspension lockout failing
• Challenging for some to assemble

In this price range, the Raleigh Tokul 2 presents the best value for money. The only downside is fewer gears and the suspension lockout has failed for some people. However, it is still an excellent choice and many attest to its quality.

Key Features of Mountain Bikes under $1000

Suspension

The reason why you can spend hundreds on mountain bikes is largely due to the quality of the suspension. For those who can afford it having the best suspension completely changes your ride and comfort level.

There are of course negatives and positives associated with both full suspension and hardtail bikes so familiarizing yourself with the pros and cons of each is important.

As a rule of thumb, under $1,000 mountain bikes with front suspension will range from 80mm to 120mm.

If you have plans to tackle bumpy and rock terrain then the more suspension you have the better. However, the less suspension the lower the weight so the amount is entirely up to how you plan to use it!

Tires

Considering the standard mountain bike wheel and tire combination is 26-inches there is now much more variety on the market.

Initially many bikes had large 29- inch wheels but that has since been reduced to 27.5 inches.

Nowadays you can purchase tires and wheels from 27.5 to 29 inches which seems to be the magic number for providing optimal traction and stability. Generally the larger the tire and wheel size the more comfortable it is for taller people. 

Weight

Entirely dependent on what you want to use the mountain bike for. For lightweight bikes, it is recommended that your bike has an aluminum frame, front suspension for and either 27.5 or 29-inch wheels depending on your height.

The lower the price you get the more weight you can expect on your bike- some becoming quite heavy due to the materials used. Top-end hardtail bikes are generally 1kg lighter than a full suspension bike.

Extra weight isn’t necessarily a bad thing but it depends on your mountain biking goals.

Hardtail Versus Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes

A debate than can go on! There are arguments for and against both types, one can research and test different bikes out but the final choice is always going to be personal. The type of bike you decide on will also be influenced by your budget so one also needs to be realistic in this sense.

Differences Between Full Suspension & Hardtails

The key difference as mentioned earlier is that hardtail bikes only feature front suspension whereas full is both front and back.

Simplistic in design, hardtails offer a lighter, easier-to-maintain bike that has less moving parts and therefore less potential issues.

Depending on your budget, hardtail bikes have carbon frames that improve flex and comfort but they really don’t compare to the comfort of a full-suspension bike.

That being said, for under $1,000 you will find a few decent hardtail bikes whereas a full suspension bike is going to cost significantly more.

Climbing

In terms of climbing ability, hardtails offer better power transfer to the rear wheel which on even terrain results in more acceleration. One can also maintain a fairly consistent speed with a hardtail bike.

When the terrain changes and becomes more challenging, rear suspension means there is more rear-wheel power available. This translates to more control and better handling of obstacles. The extra suspension helps to maintain traction on the climbing difficult terrains.

Downhill

Full suspension bikes offer a huge advantage over hardtails when it comes to technical downhills. Sure, hardtails handle the terrain well but front & back suspension offers much more comfort on the legs and body.

This is important because the more energy you can conserve in your legs and body the better your endurance.

With these considered when it comes to technical downhills, you will make better choices on a hardtail which also translates to better skills and becoming a better rider.

Maintenance

Less moving parts means less maintenance so hardtails are a much better choice for those who want a low maintenance bike. Full suspension bikes need periodic servicing on the pivots and linkages as well as the rear shocks.

Weight

Lightweight mountain biking is growing in popularity with advancements in technology we can expect frames to only improve. As mentioned previously, hardtails are roughly 1 kg lighter than full-suspension bikes but there are many lightweight full-suspension bikes.

This is also reflected by your budget so if you are light then this should be reflected in your budget.

Comfort

Younger riders aren’t really going to be affected too much by the comfort level of their bike. This is just the way their bodies are designed. For me, nowadays I seem to feel every bump on the road so comfort is pretty high on my priority list when it comes to choosing a bike.

Bottom Line

Several factors come to play when choosing the ideal bike for off-road cycling. Remember, most of the cycling will happen on rough terrains, dirt roads, and possibly rocky areas. Therefore, it is essential to consider the build of the bike to ensure it can stand the rough situation. Also, your comfort is indeed a leading factor in choosing the best bike.

It is essential to note that cheap does not mean the bike has sub-standard parts or cannot function properly. On the same note, a reasonably priced bike does not necessarily mean it keeps up to the promises made.

The best selection criterion is making the comparison for quality as long as you are within the price range that is comfortable for you. That way, you spend the intended amount and get the worth. If you are completely unsure what bike you want to get have a read of our road bike reviews too or consider our magazine recommendations for cyclists. The team have also covered helmets and bike racks if you are interested in a reliable way to transport your new purchase as well as mountain bike lube for maintenance!