The 10 Best Budget Mountain Bikes in 2019 (All Price Ranges)

Unless you are the owner of a Major Internet Conglomerate Company, budgets are as commonplace today as the almost empty gallon of milk in your refrigerator. Looking for that perfect mountain bike means setting a budget that your present income will allow. Mountain bikes often range from $200 to over $2,000 or more. Without a preset budget, your dreams may well become a nightmare.

With an unlimited selection of mountain bikes available, the following bikes outlined throughout this review will give you a guideline to follow. Priced from $200 to over $2,000, your chances of finding that right bike for you have just gotten much, much better.

When all facts and figures have been presented and studied, the Diamondback Overdrive Bicycles come highly recommended. Based on overall value, quality and durability, these bikes are good mountain bikes with an affordability factor that will fit into your preset budget restrictions.

Creating a race-ready lightweight mountain bike that is also wallet-friendly is not easy. That is exactly what Diamondback has accomplished with their impressive line of mountain bikes. This hardtail bike is designed with the latest in features without sacrificing performance. Components from Shimano including the Recon Gold RL fork to the Shimano disc brakes add quality to an already very well-built bike.

It only gets better from here. Depending on the model and size selected, Diamondback Overdrive is also equipped with the latest in tubeless tires, the Blanchard 25 wheelset. Providing more traction on difficult trails, these exclusive set of wheels and tubeless tires will take a bigger bite of the ground.

Lightweight frame has been reinforced with Boost 148 rear spacing thru both the front and rear axles for additional toughness and durability. Adding to the already exciting Shimano components, this Bike goes one step further to include the SRAM GX/NX1 drivetrain with plenty of granny gears for tough and steep climbs.

There appears to be no end to the superior quality of this inexpensive bike including:

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Overall Impression

This bike has a good rating on Amazon. Price point is well within limits for a bike of quality with an affordability factor that is hard to believe. Check out this link for more information on this mountain bike that will get you moving:

Also Check: The 10 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

Who needs gears? This single-speed mountain bike may not be the best bike on the trail but it is sure fun to ride. Equipped with an aluminum 6061 frame that is tough enough to handle all harsh weather conditions. Front end rigid chromoly fork that is durable, providing a ride that mimics a more expensive steel frame. Tektro Novela mechanical disc brakes smoothly stop you when needed regardless of trail conditions.

Big 29-inch wheels roll over all obstacles easily with complete control. Combined with an impressive set of WTB Nano sports tires for sure traction, this best cheap mountain bike is ready to take on all challenges. 680mm aluminum bar gives good support getting on or off. Rigid chromoly fork reduces shocks no matter how or where you choose to ride.

Linear pull brakes work very well with overall geometry of this single-speed mountain bike. Granted, you may have to work a little harder going hill climbing due to the single-speed however, coming down makes it all worthwhile.

This may be a basic mountain bike but look at some other features offered.

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Overall Impression

Very good rating on Amazon. Basic mountain bike with no “bells” or “whistles”. A good attractive price point that is sure to gain the attention of many. Look for more information on this single-speed bike at:

Full suspension mountain bikes are typically expensive, or at least that is the belief. Not anymore! This Diamondback full-suspension mountain bike is not only tough but good-looking. In cooperation with Shimano, the latest component on this bike make it stand out not only as a rugged mountain bike but a leader throughout the industry.

From the 6061 T-6aluminum frames to the SR Suntour XCM 120mm travel forks, this bike is designed to take on the toughest trails anywhere. With Tekto Aries Mechanical disc brakes, stopping or gradual braking on rapid descents keeps you in control and focused. A good feature for downhill racers.

A unique approach to the suspension styling of this bike is a reliable single pivot suspension point with sealed cartridges. Full suspension frame of this bike is designed for a variety of riders with varying heights, making this good mountain bike even better.14g stainless steel spokes with 32h Diamondback SL-27.5 double wall rims only begin to outline the numerous features on this bike.

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Overall Impression

Disappointing rating on Amazon. Price point is good and on the upward scale range to the higher-end prices. Overall a good mountain bike and with a budget affordability value that makes this bike a good choice the many mountain bikes that are presently available.

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All other bikes move over and make way for the “bad boy” of mountain bikes, the Diamondback 29er! Revising the already light aluminum frame, increased stiffness and handling with the Boost 148 spacing through the front and rear axles make this bike even tougher. With Shimano RockShox RL forks and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes gives you the control no matter where you are riding.

Combined with Shimano’s latest in drivetrains you will find plenty of lower gears to climb steep hills. Classis hardtail design with lightweight frame makes for easier handling to show off your riding expertise. Additional Shimano /SR Suntour 3x8 drivetrain provides the ability to go farther, to do more with less hesitation.

WBT nine-line, large deeper tread design tires take a bigger bite on tough trails with better traction and stability. Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes keep you in control on the steepest of descents with gradual speed reduction when needed. 29-inch wheels are big and tough and only one of the features offered on this bike.

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Overall Impression

Very good current rating on Amazon. Price point is reasonable considering the quality of this bike. Front fork suspension travel is good. Available in sizes from small to extra-large to accommodate all riders. Pedals are less than desirable and should be replaced before undertaking more serious riding adventures.

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The BEIOUToray is the last bike in the $500-$1,000 price range. The carbon, Toray T700 frame is lightweight with increased longevity for continual performance. This 26-inch bike is smaller than other competing models however do not let the size fool you. Capable of competing with much larger mountain bikes, this bike has the intestinal fortitude to go forward no matter what the conditions.

Whoever said: “Good things come in small packages” must have been referring to this well-made bike from BEIOU. Case in point is the latest in components from Shimano. The speed controlling Shimano Altus 370 (9S) enables the rider to accelerate or decelerate according to riding terrain conditions.

Hardtail configuration of this bike allows for good shock-absorption when riding on rocky roads with less stress on your arms and upper body. With available frame sizes of 15, 17 and 19-inch this bike is perfect for the smaller rider. Perhaps not one of the most widely purchased mountain bikes, this bike still offers features that are slowly but surely drawing additional attention.

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Overall Impression

Very good to above average rating on Amazon. Price point is mid-range to expensive. Excellent color selection with seven colors to choose from. A good mountain bike for those with a higher set budget. Look for more information on this bike at:

Entering into another higher price range is the BEIOU 29er. This bike is considered to be a high-cost performing bike with higher-end features. Designed for the cycling enthusiasts and professional mountain bike riders, riding this bike is taking it to the limits. Component of this bike is the highest grade from Shimano which should be expected on a higher end bike.

Shimano M6 10 DEORE System includes the M610 FD-610/611front and rear derailleur with the latest in disc braking, the Shimano M315/M335 dual hydraulic system that will stop you faster when needed. Unique in design, the disc brakes on this bike are visually hidden which makes for a cleaner looking bike with a sense of mystery.

BEIOU bikes have always been noted for their really good-looking bikes This 29er is no exception, with four eye-catching colors that really stand apart from other bikes in the similar price range. Overall quality is exceptional on this bike which includes the following additional features:

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Overall Impression

Good rating on Amazon. As expected, price point is getting to the levels for serious riders. This bike is very well equipped and capable of taking on tough and unforgiving trails. Due to the overall good looks of this bike, most riders prefer to “show-off” the quality and stay out of the woods!

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Taking one look at this rugged looking mountain bike will be a clear indication of what this bike was designed to do. Built for those who love to push the limits, this bike is forward-thinking all wrapped into an aluminum lightweight frame with stiffness to handle the most extreme trails imaginable. Featuring the best bike components from Shimano begins the riding adventure that only a few dares to attempt.

For a lightweight aluminum frame, thirty-pounds overall weight seems heavy. With only 10 gears, this bike is capable of conquering the toughest of trails but may limit the climbing ability that other bikes in this class possess. The Suntour XCM fork is good but could be better.

With no significant spring adjustment, this bike soon gets irregular on tougher mountain trails. Included remote lockout switch for tearing through tougher sections of dense trails may help keep you focused and in control. Square-axle triple crankset feels soft and unresponsive when needed. Pressed steel chainrings are not replaceable which may be a problem in the future.

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Overall Impression

This bike is not sold on Amazon. This bike remains somewhat of a disappointment considering the higher asking retail price. Designed for rough and extreme trail riding only, purchasing this bike on even the tightest of budgets limits your riding options. Follow this bike at:

This bike is a mid-fat hardtail beast that will conquer all that you have planned and more. 27.5+ inch tubeless ready Bontrager wheels with Schwalbe Rocker Run 27.5 x 2.8 tires will chew up anything in your way. Featuring the premiere Alpha Gold aluminum frame and 120 mm RockSock Judy Silver fork, this bike is ready to take on and pass all challengers.

Turnkey hydraulic lockout with adjustable rebound, get you to the top faster with additional cranking power. Shimano Deore1x10 drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes keeps you in control and focused on the trail ahead. Shorter stem of this bike with wider handlebars is a good pairing allowing for a higher degree of control not found on competing models.

Aluminum frame features a tapered head tube and Boost 141 spacing allowing options for wider tire applications. Responding distinctively to the rider, this bike is continually in sync with perfect geometry with the ability to tackle varied and more challenging terrain with a stress-free ride. Selected as one of the 10 best budget mountain bikes in 2019, there are other features of this trail eater that makes this well-rounded bike much better:

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Overall Impression

This bike is not sold on Amazon however available online through other retail outlets. Price point is reaching maximum budget limits for a large majority of riders. Bike may be better suited for professional riders, not for entry-level, beginning riders. More information can be found on this bike at:

Entering into another realm of more expensive mountain bikes comes the Stache 5 from Trek. There is no cover charge to join the party celebrating this hi-end mountain bike that is as mean to challenge courses as it looks. This 29er is the bike most riders dream about. Premium hardtail designed bike rolls on 3-inch mid-fat tires, flying through rough and loose terrain.

Burly suspension fork keeps you on line when tougher conditions suddenly appear. The Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame with elevated mid stay keeps you moving and looking for yet another challenge to take on. Additional clearance for installation of larger optional tires is accomplished by Boost hub for a larger tire upgrade.

Wide 3˝ tires mounted to 50mm SUNringlé rims deliver the best traction but are still nimble enough to get in a few quick jumps before heading back to the top. Shimano Deore 1x10 drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes, a Manitou Machete 32 fork with 120mm of travel, are just a few of the features offered on this simple looking but aggressive mountain bike.

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Overall Impression

Once again, this bike is not sold on Amazon. Price point is at the top of nearly all preset budgets. You really have to enjoy mountain biking to get your return on the money spent. This would bike would not be a good choice for a weekend or occasional riders. Look for more valuable information at:

This bike is an open door to all who love to experience full suspension trail performance. Proven with a single-pivoting rear suspension this bike is not only lightweight but super smooth. 120mm of travel on the SR Suntour Axon RL-R fork absorbs shocks with a return that is hardly noticeable. Suntour Epixon R rear shock gives you complete control of the bike on all terrains.

Frame geometry is dialed into perfection for the 27.5-inch wheels for a variety of riding styles. ALUXX-grade butted 6011 aluminum frame with 120mm of FlexPoint suspension travel is rugged tough with the best-in-class strength-to-weight ratio. Unique welding technologies provide for a ride that is remarkably smooth.

The Stance 2 original oversized fork steerer tube gives accurate front-end steering performance from flat even terrain to treacherous mountain trails. This bike is designed for harder trails featuring a trunnion-mount shock and advanced forged composite rocker arm. Other features of this top-of-the-line budgeted bike include:

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Overall Impression

This bike is currently not sold on Amazon. Price point for this bike currently sits at top of the mountain as one of the 10 best budget mountain bikes in 2019. Realistically, there many riders that can appreciate the quality of this bike however an unlimited number with tighter budget restrictions. Look for more information on this beautiful styled bike at:

Bike Style

Before choosing a mountain bike style you should have a pretty good idea as to what type of riding you will be doing. There are four styles of mountain bikes to select from, Cross-country, Trail, Enduro/All-mountain and Downhill. Each style of bike is designed for a specific style of riding.

Cross -country bikes are built for speed and efficiency. These bikes are pedal-focused. Trail bikes are considered to the be a do-it-all bike with a wider range of versatility. Enduro/All-mountain is as the named implies, uphill friendly however more downhill focused. Downhill bikes are heavily built, designed to handle descents with speeds, jumps and steep terrain.

Right Size

This is where size really does matter. Choosing the right size bike is a crucial factor that will determine your overall riding enjoyment. It is always best to get fitted for a bike at a bike store. With more consumers making the purchase online, ordering the correct sized bike becomes doubly important.

Always look for the sizing chart available on the manufacturer’s website. These charts are very accurate and a very valuable source in purchasing the correct sized bike. Sizes (S, M, L) correspond to your actual height. Always choose the smaller sized bike should your height fall in between available sizes.

Suspension

Mountain bike suspensions fall into three main categories: Rigid, Hardtail and Full.

RIGID suspension bikes are not the most commonly selected mountain bike. These bikes have no suspension are easier to maintain and typically less expensive.

HARDTAIL bikes have suspension on the front fork only. These bikes have fewer moving parts and are less expensive than a full suspension bike.

FULL suspension bikes have shock absorbing qualities on both the front and rear forks. These bikes have a tendency to “bob” slightly. Full suspension bikes have the ability to “lock-out” the rear suspension for better powerful hill climbing ability.

Wheel Size

There are three (3) common wheel sizes found on mountain bikes: 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29ers (29-inch).

Frame

Mountain bikes have either an aluminum, carbon, steel or titanium frame. The frame you select controls the weight, strength, longevity, quality and ride performance. Carbon and titanium frames are expensive and commonly found on higher-end bikes. Aluminum frames are made of aluminum alloy and the most common bike frame used.

More expensive models have lighter aluminum frames as a manufacturer choice to spend more dollars. Steel framed mountain bikes are more durable however heavier. Carbon frame bikes are usually found on cross-country, fat bikes, high-end trail and all-mountain bikes. The aluminum frame still remains the most widely chosen.

Gears

Number of gears is determined by the number of front chainrings times the number of sprockets on the cassette. Gears on mountain bikes range from a single speed to 30 or more. Considering the style and type of mountain bike riding you will be doing determines the number of gears that you will need.

The large majority of mountain bikes in use today typically are equipped with either two or three chainrings. Bikes with single or a wider range of chainrings with 9, 10, or 11 cogs are becoming very popular. Changing or upgrading gearing is always an option after you purchase your bike.

Brakes

Good mountain bikes use either disc or rim brakes.

DISC BRAKES are either hydraulic or cable operated. Disc brakes are preferred however add to the overall increased cost of your bike. Disc brakes offer less finger effort and are self-adjusting for wear. Disc brakes provide for more consistent braking in all types of weather conditions.

RIM BR​​​​AKES are simply pads that apply pressure to the bike wheel when stopping. Found on most entry-level mountain bikes, disc brakes are economical, easy to observe wear and easier to replace. However, application of disc brakes will eventually wear out the wheel resulting in full wheel replacement which can be expensive.

Mountain bike riding is one of the fastest growing extreme sports. Good mountain bikes are expensive and require some forethought and planning before purchasing. Establishing a fixed budget is a good way to begin the search for the best mountain bike that will fall within your budget guidelines. Purchasing a bike beyond your means or budget is never recommended.

Undoubtedly, there are many mountain bikes to choose from. Keeping your preset budget in mind, reviewing all bikes that fall within your budget will save you time and money. Through patience and a better understanding of your individual style, you will be able to find the right bike that meets all your requirements perfectly.

Mountain bike riding is dangerous and requires wearing the proper protective equipment at all times. Protective equipment such as helmets and chest guards will add to the overall cost of your new mountain bike and should be included in your preset budget.

Related Reviews:

• The 10 Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 in 2019 & Beyond
• The 6 Best Folding Mountain Bike in 2019
• The 10 Best Mountain Bikes Under $200 of 2019
• Diamondback Lux Women’s Mountain Bike Review
• 26″ Huffy Trail Runner Women’s Mountain Bike Review

Additional Resource:

• How to choose the best mountain bike, by TrekBikes
• How to Choose a Mountain Bike, Backcountry