Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 – Review and Buying Guide

Finding a mountain bike under a strict budget could be tricky since cheaper products often compromise on quality. However, you are lucky enough because many trusted brands today are introducing top-quality MTBs with reasonable price tags.

Moreover, it is critical to figure out whether a particular bike serves your purpose or not. The requirements for the suspension system, types of brakes, geometry, and power varies from rider to rider.

Can I Get A Decent Mountain Bike For $500?

Yes, it is possible to get a decent mountain bike under 500 since many trusted brands are introducing their entry-level models. These bikes do not deliver top-tier performance, but if you use them with care, these bikes will provide a fun experience for years.

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Here are some of the major points you should keep in mind while choosing a budget-friendly mountain bike.

Our list of 12 best MTBs under $500 includes all the reliable options with decent construction quality and professional-grade features. To make your decision even simpler, we have shared overview of our top 12 MTBs.

Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Highly Recommended	Highly Recommended	Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type: Front Weight: 30 lbs. Speed: 24	Check On Amazon
Best Seller	Best Seller	Kent KZ2600 Full Suspension Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type: Dual Weight: 40 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon
Editors Choice	Editors Choice	Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire MTB	Frame Material : Steel Suspension Type: Rigid Weight: 42 lbs. Speed: 7	Check On Amazon
Budget Pick	Budget Pick	Neffice 27.5 Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type: Rear, Front Weight: 35 lbs. Speed: 24	Check On Amazon
Affordable Aluminum Frame Bike	Affordable Aluminum Frame Bike	Hiland 27.5” Aluminum Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type: Front Weight: 31 lbs. Speed: 24	Check On Amazon
Best for Women	Best for Women	Huffy Stone Women’s Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Steel Suspension Type: Front Weight: 42.68 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon
Steel Frame	Steel Frame	Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Steel, Aluminum Suspension Type: Dual Weight: 42.3 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon
For Trail Rides	For Trail Rides	Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type:Front Weight: 38 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon
		Vuly Mountain Bike for Kids	Frame Material : Aluminum Suspension Type: Front Weight: 28 lbs. Speed: 21	Check on Amazon
		EuroBike X1 21 Speed MTB	Frame Material : Carbon Steel Suspension Type: Front Weight: 48.5 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon
Best for Girls	Best for Girls	Mongoose Exlipse Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike	Frame Material : Steel Suspension Type: Dual Weight: 33 lbs. Speed: 21	Check On Amazon

12 Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 Review

To make the equation simple for you, we picked and reviewed the best budget-friendly mountain bikes you can purchase under $500. You cannot expect the top-tier performance for these budget mountain bikes, but we have tried to bring out the best you can get in this price range.

What makes this bike affordable is its adjustable suspension system combined with 27.5-inch wheels and 2.1-inch tires. In addition to that, it offers smooth gear variation, 24-speed variations, and a lockable suspension fork that absorbs 90 percent pumps, making your rides smooth and safe with changing terrains.

As far as our experience is concerned, we’re overwhelmed with its exceptional braking performance. Its front and rear double disc brakes offer exceptional stopping during off-roading, descents, and climbs.

The bike is ideal for riders between 5’5” and 6’5” since it comes with an adjustable 17-inch frame. The high-strength aluminum alloy frame with impressive welding technology makes it one of the most durable bikes under $500.

The maxim weight carrying capacity is 350 lbs., which means the bike is equally useful for teenagers and big guys. Finally, the bike comes 80% preassembled and includes all the required tools and accessories to make the remaining assembly quick and easy.

Why I Recommended Neffice 27.5 MTB

Neffice 27.5 Mountain Bike is one of the best-selling products of the year-thanks for its smoothly changing gears and 24-speed settings. The bike’s high-strength frame gives you the confidence to explore challenging routes, while its impressive barking and suspension system ensures your comfort and safety.

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However, to provide added protection, the manufacturer has done internal cabling, that even gives a neat and clean outer look. The bike has mechanical disc brakes that make stopping over gravel a breeze, no matter how steeply or sloppy the path gets, it will always be seen doing its job at best.

Numerous speed with trigger shifters not only provide quick and easy shifting between speeds but also lets you choose them in accordance with the road conditions. Its multiple speed shifters and mechanical disc brakes never compromise on giving unmatchable stability on challenging paths.

Reason for Recommending Mongoose Switchback MTB

Why I recommend the Mongoose Switchback Mountain Bike is because its Tectonic T1 aluminum frame is so light and sturdy that you would hardly find such a combination in this price range. Its wide Kenda 27.5 inches tread tires are anti-skid, and offer optimal performance on hard roads.

Additionally, this bike assures your safety in challenging off-road conditions since it has a reliable mechanical braking system. With powerful double disc front and rear brakes, the bike gives you exceptional stopping during downhill or uphill climbing.

We also loved the beautiful design and color combination of the bike. It looks stylish and beautiful in basic black color with beautiful grey and red details. Adding more to that, the bike weighs around 30 lbs and has 24 speeds with smooth gear shifting. These features reveal that that bike is highly suitable for off-roading uphill climbing and downhill climbing.

What we found a bit disappointing about this bike is that its height is not adjustable. The bike’s height is fixed at 17-inches, and is ideal for riders between 5’7” and 5’11”. Most of the mountain bikes don’t come with a kickstand but Vilano Blackjack 3.0 MTB comes with a perfect MTB kickstand.

Additionally, it doesn’t come pre-assembled, which is another downside. Although it includes all the required tools and components, you may need to take it to the local workshop for perfect assembly and component installment.

Why I Recommended Vilano Blackjack 3.0 MTB

Vilano Blackjack 3.0 with Shimano components and hardtail frame is one the best combination of price and quality you can find under $500. Its double-disc mechanical brakes and 21-speed drivetrain with Shimano EZ  micro-shifters promise unmatched stability and safety for the riders on challenging off-road rides.

You may also want to read: Shimano Sora Vs 105 Comparison

The bike’s wheel size suggests that the bike is ideal for guys between 5’1” and 5’4”. It features an aluminum frame and average-quality components. Therefore the bike can tackle light-duty off-roading like short cross-country trips and trail-type riding.

However, it does best for daily commutes and on-road trips. Although the construction quality is not a premium one, it surely justifies its price tag.

Kids would love the bike’s basic black painted finish with red and white detailing. Since safety is parents’ main concern when their kids take a ride, this bike boasts highly responsive and reliable dual-disc mechanical brakes.

Shimano kids-friendly 24-speed drivetrain is another feature that makes this bike worth buying. The smooth and quick gear shifting and multiple speed levels let your kid explore nature the way they want. Thankfully, the bike comes 85% pre-installed and includes all the required tools and components you may need to do the rest of the job.

Why I Recommended Hiland Aluminum Mountain Bike

Hiland 26-inch aluminum bike with lightweight construction and a reliable barking mechanism is undoubtedly one of the best beginner mountain bikes you can buy today. Although you won’t get the best quality component, it works great for a daily commute and light-duty off-roading for kids.

Since you won’t be rushing on challenging climbs and descents, you will find its 7-speed drivetrain sufficient. Operated with Shimano rear derailleurs, the gears shift smoothly making your climbs and descents safe and comfortable.

Also, the heavyweight construction demands extra power to stop, therefore Mongoose Malus MTB is equipped with Hydraulic Disc brakes. We found these brakes highly responsive and reliable even under challenging conditions. So, if you love to explore hard trails, this MTB is highly recommended.

Furthermore, it features a high-strength steel frame that adds a bit extra weight but promises stability, comfort, and durability for years to come. Plus, the knobby 4-inch wide tires enhance the bike’s roll-over ability, improves friction, and provides traction, making it the perfect choice for serious off-roading.

The bike features 26-inch wheels and an 18-inch stand-over height. The bike is ideal for people between 5’ to 5’7”. Unfortunately, height is not adjustable, so, therefore, it is not for people taller than 5’7”.

The bike doesn’t come pre-assembled but includes a comprehensive guide and all the required tools and accessories. However, if you don’t know much about the bike’s assembly, we recommend you get a professional service to avoid any damage.

Why I Recommended Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire MTB

Mongoose Malus rigid mountain bike with knobby 4-inch fat tire provides unmatched traction, roll-over ability, and stability, making it the best bike for serious off-roading. Although it doesn’t feature premium quality construction, it doesn’t give you the cheapest quality either.

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The bike features a 26-inch alloy wheel frame, and an overall lightweight structure, making it a great option for kids and teenagers. Also, it features a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain with smooth gear shifting. The feature ensures the safety and stability of young riders when they are exposed to more challenging trails.

Being an affordable MTB under $500, this bike doesn’t come with the best quality construction for sure. However, the quality is not the cheapest either, and the bike does well for light off-roading and cross-country rides.

Kent KZ2600 MTB offers tow handbrakes. The front disc brakes add more power for safe and quick stopping on challenging rides, while rear linear-pull brakes give you extra control over the rides. With such a powerful braking system, this bike assures the safety of amateur and occasional riders.

Why I Recommended Kent KZ2600 Mountain Bike

Kent KZ2600 with full suspension and dual brakes is an entry-level mountain bike. With smaller size wheels, excellent brake control, and lightweight construction, this is undoubtedly an easy-to-handle MTB for kids and teenagers who are new to off-roading.

Also have a look at Sirdar S800 Dual Disk Brake Mountain Bike Review

The front suspension efficiently soaks up all the bumps and dips, making uphill climbing, downhill climbing, and outdoor adventures smooth and comfortable. Plus, the 21-speed Shimano Drivetrain coupled with a micro shift twist shifter makes the gear shifting super quick and smooth, giving you the confidence to explore multiple terrains.

Additionally, the construction quality of the bike is amazing, considering its budget price. It combines a high-quality steel frame with alloy wheel rims and a double stitched saddle, promising reliable performance for the years to come.

The bike is equipped with linear-pull brakes that are not as powerful as disc brakes but perform well on trial-type and cross country rides. You can adjust the seat height and handlebars to synchronize the bike with your body.

Moreover, the knobby thick tires enhance the traction and roll-over ability giving you the confidence to accept outdoor challenges. Unfortunately, the bike doesn’t come pre-assembled, and you may need a professional service to get the perfect and damage-free assembly.

Why I Recommended Huffy Stone MTB

Huffy Stone MTB featuring sturdy construction and adjustable geometry is undoubtedly one of the best mountain bikes under $500. With a soft front suspension and linear-pull brakes, this MTB does well for the daily commute, light off-roading, and cross-country rides.

You can also read: Detailed Comparison of Shimano Sora Vs. Tiagra Groupsets

Steel frame construction adds a bit extra weight, but this is the sturdiest bike you can find for those who can handle the extra weight. Since the bike is built to ride harsh and challenging trails, it offers 21-speed configurations.

It boasts of a powerful alloy crank coupled with micro shift twist shifters; these features make the gear shifting super smooth and quick, making your rides even more comfortable. The bike is a blend of lightweight and heavy-duty parts, giving it a moderate weight for maximum stability in different types of terrains.

It combines Knobby fat tires with lightweight alloy wheels. The lightweight wheels give you extra control over the bike while knobby tires provide traction and rollover-ability on climbs and descents.

Stopping power is another concern when it comes to serious off-road riding. Unfortunately, Schwinn bikes feature linear-pull brakes that are not as powerful as disc brakes. However, if you are skilled enough, you can easily take this bike to challenging climbs and descent since its linear pull hand brakes are highly efficient and responsive.

The bike has an efficient suspension system with ample travel distance that soaks up all the bumps and shocks for added comfort and stability. Plus, the adjustable seat height makes the bike useful for riders of different heights.

Why I Recommended Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike

Schwinn High Timber MTB is a professional-grade bike that lets you hit the mountain in style. The bike is equipped with highly efficient braking and suspension system that gives you the confidence to take this bike on challenging climbs, descents, and bumpier terrains.

The 27.5-inch wheel size comes with a 17.5-inch frame making the bike ideal for riders taller than 5’4”. Smooth speed changing is another feature that made us add this bike to this list. The bike comes with 21-speed configurations for seamless gear shifting.

Plus, it is equipped with linear-pull brakes that work great on flat terrains and trail-type riding. However, these brakes are not as powerful as disc brakes, and therefore, we do not recommend this bike for beginners.

Finally, we really appreciate the upright handlebars, which minimize shoulder and arm strains. Also, these types of handlebars require less power to maneuver during uphill climbing.

Why I Recommended Huffy Hardtail Trail Bike

The Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike with a soft front suspension system and sturdy metal frame is undoubtedly the best mountain bike you can buy for under $500. If you are experienced enough, it’s okay to take this bike to challenging terrain. Since the bike lacks disc brakes, we don’t recommend this bike for newbies.

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These mountain bikes are relatively light and allow for 21 different speeds, especially useful for the more technical tracks. They are designed with aesthetic in mind and come in various colors including red, pink, black and teal. Vuly bike is limited to rider under 150cm, and so is best suited for kids and potentially shorter adult riders.

What sets this bike apart from its counterparts is its powerful barking system. It boasts highly responsive dual disc brakes that add immense power to stop in an emergency. Also, these brakes are powerful enough to give you safe stopping on downhill riding, uphill riding, and challenging bumpy terrain.

Plus, the bike features a high-strength carbon-steel frame, making the bike exceptionally sturdy without adding extra weight. Moreover, it comes with multi-spoke wheels with lightweight alloy rims and a well-stitched saddle promising long-term performance for years to come.

Unfortunately, you cannot adjust the height, and therefore the bike is not ideal for people shorter than 5’4”. The bike doesn’t come pre-assembled but includes all the necessary tools and accessories to complete the assembly process. If you don’t know much about MTB parts, we recommend getting professional service for damage-free assembly.

Why I Recommended Euro Bike X1 MTB

It’s hard to believe that you’re getting carbon-steel and 21-speed configuration for under $300. It is one of the most reliable and sturdy entry-level mountain bikes that don’t compromise your safety or comfort in any situation.

The balance between strength and weight is achieved by incorporating steel frames and alloy wheels. This perfect balance helps the kids control the bike on the different and demanding trails.

Another plus of this entry-level MTB is the full suspension system. The smaller wheel size incorporates a high level of suspension with maple travel, which soaks 95% bumps and shock making the ride smooth and comfortable.

Despite the Reasonable price, the bike doesn’t compromise on quality and safety. It features 21-speed configurations, with Shimano gears for quick and seamless gear shifting.

Since the bike is not built for serious off-roading, its dual linear-pull brakes do the job perfectly. Since safety is the major concern while buying MTB for kids, you should get a professional assembly service. For safe stopping and smooth rides, it’s critical to properly fix the brake cables and suspension forks.

Why I Recommended Mongoose Exlipse Mountain Bike

Mongoose Explise mountain bike, with a full suspension system and lightweight construction, is one of the best mountain bikes for kids. Although height is not adjustable, it is ideal for the early years teens and kids between 9-12 years.

Note: Always make sure to wear full face MTB helmet to protect your head and face from severe injuries.

Things To Consider While Choosing Mountain Bike Under $500

Although we have provided you with the list of the ten best mountain bikes under $500, it may be still difficult for you to figure out which bike is going to be a perfect fit for you. It is critical to look for what a bike offers to you in different situations you’re into.

Also, barking, gears, and geometry requirements vary from rider to rider, depending on their riding style, terrain types, and level of expertise. To take you out of all this situation, here is a comprehensive guide explaining what you should look for while buying a mountain bike under $500.

Suspension System of Mountain Bike

The suspension system is one of the most critical features when it comes to buying a mountain bike. A suspension system absorbs all the hock and bumps, increases the bike’s life, and makes your ride safe and comfortable.

Depending upon the type of suspension, mountain bikes have been divided into three main types.

1. Hardtail Mountain Bikes

These mountain bikes feature only one suspension at the front. The bikes are famous for their low-maintenance requirements, fewer moving parts, and lightweight structure.

Additionally, you can lock the front suspension making the bike a rigid-like mountain bike. The bikes are highly affordable, and you will find plenty of options under $500.

These bikes will work exceptionally great for low to medium challenging terrains. They are best for cross country rides, downhill riding, and other off-roading adventures. If you are an occasional rider looking for something affordable and manageable, consider a hardtail mountain bike.

2. Rigid Mountain Bike

Rigid mountain bikes are those that have no suspension system. These bikes are also called flat tire bikes. These bikes are totally dependent on their fat tires, wide wheels, and low pressure to absorb all the bumps.

These are affordable bikes with particularly low maintenance requirements and fewer moving parts. If you’re looking for a mountain bike to do cross-country, trail-type riding, and light-duty occasional off-roading, getting a light-duty rigid mountain bike is not a bad deal.

3. Dual Suspension OR Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

Full suspension mountain bikes are technologically advanced and competent mountain bikes. These suspension forks are connected with both front and rear wheels that typically provide 80-200 mm travel. With this tire movement or travel, the bike absorbs the shocks, reduces the impact of pumps providing maximum traction and stability to the rider.

As a general rule of thumb, the bumpier the terrain, the more suspension you require. If you are looking for a full-suspension mountain bike for under $500, you will get suspension travel between 80-150 mm.

These bikes are ideal for light to moderate off-roading, uphill climbing, downhill climbing and perform better than hardtail and rigid mountain bikes. However, if you are looking for something more powerful or want to explore challenging terrains, we recommend spending a few more pennies on getting a higher suspension, around 180 mm.

You can also read my top recommended mountain bike under $750 review

1. Wheels Size of Mountain Bike

A few years back, there are typically few options available in wheel sizes. However, today, we have plenty of options like 26-inch, 27.5 inches, 29er, and plus-sized wheels. You should be very careful while choosing a wheel size since it impacts your riding experience. 26-inch wheels are today mainly replaced by larger sizes since these sizes offer more traction, stability, and long-distance rides.

27.5-inch wheels are a typical option that is ideal for riders between 5’5” and 6’0”. However, if you are on the shorter side in this range, 27.5-inch wheels are the optimum choice. 27.5-inch wheels offer more traction, roll-over stability, and additional comfort than the 26-inch wheels.

Since these wheels are lighter and stronger, they can incorporate large suspension, making them ideal for uphill climbing, descent, and challenging off-roading. 29er wheel size is getting popular these days because of their big size, these wheels offer exceptional stability, roll-over ability, traction, and comfort.

However, their bulky size incorporates small suspension, making them a bit uncomfortable on bumpy and challenging terrains. We recommend this heel size for taller people above 5’7”.

Are you confused about bike sizing and thinking that “Will a 26 inch bike fits you or not?”. Don’t worry, we have a detailed guide for you about 26 inch bike is for what size person!

2. Plus-Sized Tires of MTB

Plus-size tires are thick and fat variants of the original sizes. These oversized wheels are made to provide maximum rollover ability, traction, and stability, and are ideal for serious off-roading.

3. Construction Quality of Mountain Bike

Construction quality is a critical factor, especially when you are buying an entry-level bike. Although you cannot expect high-end quality under this budget, you should also avoid cheaply-built bikes.

It is critical to look for high-quality alloy frames, aluminum frames, or steel frames that can withstand the wear and impact on outdoor adventures. Mountain bikes with carbon fiber and titanium frames are sturdy, but they are not recommended for entry-level mountain bikers because of their high cost.

4. Brakes Quality of Mountain Bike

Reliability and responsiveness of brakes is the critical factor of any vehicle. In this budget, you will get either mechanical disc brakes or linear-pull brakes. Disc brakes have more power to stop and gives you the confidence to explore challenging environments.

Disc brakes are highly responsive to climbs and descents. If you do regular off-roading and uphill climbing, it is recommended to get mechanical disc brakes. Linear pull hand brakes are not as powerful as disc brakes, but you will find them in entry-level mountain bikes since they are affordable.

These brakes are highly responsive, simple to operate, and have the least maintenance requirements. Liner Pull brakes do the job for the daily commute, light off-roading, and cross country ride. Plus, if you are getting MTB for kids or teenagers, it is fine to get linear-pull brakes.

5. Gears of Mountain Bike

Getting different speed configurations is a plus since it gives you plenty of options with changing environments. A more number of gears will give you more options to get stability with changing steepness and terrains. In MTBs under $500, you will get 7 to 21-speed configurations.

For serious off-road riding, uphill climbing, downhill climbing, and bumpier terrains, you should look for more gears to ensure stability. However, for flat trails and cross country riding, you can get away with fewer gears.

6. Adjustability

Adjustable geometry lets you synchronize the bike with your body. Adjustable height and handlebars make the bike ideal for riders of different heights.

7. Assembly of Mountain Bike

Bike assembly is a complex and time-consuming process. Try to find a bike that comes pre-assembled. Also, you should look if the bike includes all the required accessories and tools or not. If you don’t know much about the bike’s parts and assembly, we recommend getting a professional service to avoid damage.

Do you prefer self bike maintenance? If yes, you must have a good bike repair stand to do bike maintenance comfortably.

FAQs about MTBs Under $500

What is a decent mountain bike brand?

Huffy is a decent MTB brand producing premium quality and entry-level mountain bikes for many years. Huffy MTBs feature sturdy steel and aluminum frames and Shimano accessories, making them highly stable and durable. With these bikes, you can explore challenging terrains like a pro.

What is the cheapest full suspension mountain bike?

Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike is undoubtedly the cheapest full suspension bike you can buy today. With 21-speed configurations, lightweight construction, and a dual suspension system, this bike is perfect for the daily commute, light off-roading, and trail-type riding.

Wrapping Up Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 Review

Getting a decent Mountain bike under $500 is possible, but you need to be extra inquisitive and investigative. While choosing a budget mountain bike, you should focus on its construction quality since cheaply built bikes can leave you disappointed at any moment.

To make your decision even simpler, we have shortlisted our top three favorite mountain bikes under $500.

• Eurobike X1 Bike 21 Speed Mountain Bike for its High-strength carbon-steel frame, Efficient front suspension, and powerful dual disc brakes.
• Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike for all-terrain knobby tires, adjustable height, and ability to tackle serious off-roading.
• Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike for its sturdy heat-treated alloy frame, Shimano accessories, powerful mechanical disc brakes, and amazing rollover ability.

Also, depending upon your riding style, it is critical to get a well-configured suspension and braking system for a safe and stable riding experience.