Price is often a factor when considering a mountain bike. It can be expensive – with costs ranging from $500 for a hardtail to over $10,000 for certain models.
Does that mean you cannot find a good mountain bikes on a budget?
For those with budget restrictions, there’s no need to miss out on one of the best riding adventures on a bicycle. Some of the best mountain bikes under $200 can still provide the opportunity to experience all that bike riding has to offer.
From road riding to high timber country, the top ten mountain bikes we have reviewed are a good alternative to pricey specialized bikes.
Designed for a variety of riding styles, these models offer features similar to more expensive two-wheeled vehicles but at an affordable price.
After 30 hours of research and reading hundreds of consumer reviews, the Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bikes comes highly recommended.
This bike is a serious contender and also one of the most widely selected affordable mountain bikes when compared with other competing models.
Best Cheap Mountain Bike Under $200
1. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
If you want to ride through unforgiving terrain in the wilderness, you need a bike that is dependable, durable, and capable of handling some of the most extreme riding anywhere.
Considered to be one of the best mountain bikes under 200 dollars, this Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike will get you to the trails and back.
The 21-speed drivetrain with Shimano twist shifters shifts through the gears smoothly and effortlessly. Wide knobby tires can take on even the roughest of trails, leaving you in control.
It has good traction on dry or muddy trails, too, with its 26-inch alloy wheels taking on any terrain.
The steel frame of this rugged and durably-built bike is ideal for most trail conditions. The only drawback is that it is heavier than most of its peers, and this additional 3-4 pound does make a difference when the trails end.
That being said, it is more reliable than an aluminum tubular frame, but if the weight of the bike is an issue, you might want to consider other frame options depending on your preference.
This bike has a lot of great features. Here are its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- The Steel frame with Schwinn suspension fork for controlled riding on rough trails.
- 21-speed rear derailleur for quick gear changes on the trail.
- Easy to assemble, Approximately takes half an hour.
- It is upgradeable, You can easily adjust the parts as needed.
- It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- It may require some component replacement.
- It comes with plastic pedals.
- The saddle can be a little uncomfortable.
- It is a bit heavy.
This Schwinn bike’s rating on Amazon is fair, perhaps because there are a few color selections to choose from.
The price point is very affordable and makes this a good entry-level mountain bike. Click the following link for more information:
Speaking of the brand Schwinn? Check out our top Schwinn bikes review here!
2. Mongoose Status 2.2
Looking mean with an attitude to match, this Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike is ready to go whenever you are. The hydro-formed tubing makes this good-looking bike capable of handling a larger variety of riding styles.
Its powerful and dependable suspension smooths out road bumps, leaving you in control with good stability that keeps you upright and moving.
This aluminum frame bike is quick-shifting, built with Shimano rear derailleur and the right gearing sequence that makes tackling the most difficult trails easier.
It has strong and lightweight alloy rims with knobby 2.125-inch wide mountain tires that roll over anything in your path without any issues.
Front and rear v-brakes help to control your speed with maximum stopping ability when needed. It is also equipped with a 21-speed gear, so you can go as fast or as slow as you want.
The bike’s overall weight of 36.4 pounds seems a bit heavy for a bike built with an aluminum frame. It is built for the rider who takes it to the limit each time they ride.
Pros
- Aluminum frame and a sturdy front suspension fork is strong and reliable.
- 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur makes for smooth gear changes on every ride.
- Front and rear v brakes ensure quick stops out on the trail.
- Lightweight, durable alloy rims and 26×2.125 inch tires roll over anything.
- Only requires 30 minutes for assembly.
- It features sure-grip handlebars.
Cons
- It can be difficult to assemble.
- The handlebars do not stay tight.
- It requires many adjustments.
- It has a one-year limited warranty.
Surprisingly rated low on Amazon, this aluminum bike has a price point that is very affordable. Find more information about this bike at
3. Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Built for younger generation entry-level riders, this lightweight bike is the perfect trainer for ages 14 and up. With a maximum weight capacity of up to 250 pounds, it offers full suspension capabilities with good riding control.
It is smaller in size, manufactured with 24-inch front and rear wheels and is the perfect bike to make kids appreciate the great outdoors.
Novice mountain bike riders will appreciate the lightweight configuration of the Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike.
With less maintenance required, using this bike would give the younger generation a lot of pleasure, bringing special family time back into perspective.
The 26-inch overall size of this bike is not only lightweight but features wide 2.10-inch knobby tires for good traction on wet or muddy surfaces.
The features of this well-designed mountain bike are centered on the safety of younger riders. These features include the following:
Pros
- It has full suspension aluminum frame with 50mm steel crown fork.
- The bike has 24-inch alloy rims to easy your pedaling.
- 21-speed twist shifters will help you get through even the most rugged terrain.
- Linear rear brakes provides an efficient stop.
- The kickstand is already included.
Cons
- Professional assembly is required.
- Some consumers report multiple missing/damaged parts in shipment.
- Multiple adjustments are needed.
This bike’s current rating on Amazon is low and needs to improve. The low rating stems from consumer complaints with regards to shipping or missing or damaged parts, and do not refer to the overall quality of this bike.
4. Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Not all mountain bikes are created equal. A case in point is the KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Bike from Kent.
From its 36 spoke alloy wheels to the floating beam suspension mated to the suspension fork, this bike is way ahead of other leading models.
The full 65mm build of the suspension fork absorbs more shock on rough terrains, providing increased control. Its powerful and specially-designed frame includes a strong aluminum wheelset with high-flange hubs for less debris build-up.
The bike’s unusual braking system includes disc brakes on the front suspension and a rear linear-pull designed for a multitude of mountain bike riding conditions.
Its rapid-fire 21-speed shifters get you up to speed faster due to Shimano’s precision-engineered shifting components.
Above the overall rugged good looks of this well-built mountain bike, there remains a bike that is engineered to go the distance.
Features may appear to be similar on other mountain bikes, but its performance puts it above others.
Pros
- Very easy to assemble within 40 minute.
- 21-speed shifters get you up to speed faster.
- 65mm suspension fork absorbs shock on rough terrains.
- It provides a smoother ride because of its quality components.
- Disc brakes on the front suspension and a rear linear-pull brakes can handle stopping whenever you need stop.
Cons
- Parts are not high quality.
- It requires daily maintenance.
- For some users, the chain keeps coming off.
This Kent bike is a very affordable mountain bike backed by a company with years of experience and production of quality bikes for all ages and riding styles.
Big fan of the brand Kent? Check out our top 5 Kent Bikes review here!
5. Roadmaster Granite Peak Men’s Bike
Peak performance is what this bike is all about, and with a maximum rider capacity of up to 250 pounds, it is certainly designed to take on the roughest terrains.
Now, here is a bike for big guys with heavyweights!
For style, the Roadmaster 26” Men’s Granite Peak mountain bike has a dependable 3-piece crank that offers aggressive gear changing that seamlessly handles ever-changing outdoor terrain.
It has a steel frame that is virtually indestructible, 18 speeds to let you control your pace, as well as strong and durable alloy wheels with linear brakes that work well together for speed and performance.
Considered as a minimalist-designed mountain bike, this 26-inch all-terrain bike has everything that you will need to reach the peak with ease.
Pros
- It is very affordable bike.
- Steel mountain frame geometry for easy riding.
- 3-piece mountain crank offers wide gear range.
- Linear pull brakes provide great stopping power.
- Suspension fork smoothes bumps and increases control.
- It can be used in varied terrains.
Cons
- It has an uncomfortable saddle.
- It is heavy.
- It is not a bike for taller riders.
This Roadmaster has a good rating on Amazon, with a price point well below other competing models.
Click the link to learn more about this best mountain bikes under 200 dollars.
6. Raleigh Talus 1
This lightweight mountain bike was built for those that enjoy the handling and performance of a mountain bike without all the hype.
With a rugged and dependable steel frame, it’s got the perfect geometry that is an ideal fit for smaller, more delicate riders.
The Raleigh Talus 1 Recreational Mountain Bike has alloy wheels that can take on all bumps and rough roads. The V-brakes allow for higher than average response times for quick stops.
On a grander scale, this is a great way to get your daily exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.
This Raleigh bike has 21 gear combinations with tires that provide ample traction on all surfaces.
Other great features of this well-built mountain bike are the matching fenders and chain guards.
Speaking of Raleigh Talus, check out our Raleigh Talus 2 review here!
Pros
- Shimano drivetrain offers 21 different gears to choose from.
- 27.5” wheels and wide 2” tires help you easily roll over bumps with efficiency.
- It has a steel lightweight frame.
- It has a classic, mid-vintage styling.
- It Comes with a comfortable saddle.
Cons
- There are no negative issues with this bike at this time.
The bike has a perfect rating on Amazon given that it has only one posted a review. The quoted price is also good and in range considering the overall quality of this bike.
Click the following link for more information on this very useful multipurpose women’s city bike.
7. Mongoose R3577 Girl’s Maxim Full Suspension Bicycle
Experience what Mongoose has to offer with the Mongoose R3577 girl’s mountain bike. This 24-inch riding adventure has a subtle purple color combination that looks as good as it performs.
The lightweight aluminum frame is easy to use with perfect symmetry for a smaller rider.
This Mongoose girl’s bike has a full, comfortable suspension that can absorb any bumps on the road while letting the rider maintain complete control.
Made for girls who love to ride, this bike can easily be ridden on a variety of trails.
Its three-piece crank offers a wider selection of gear ranges, which is adequate for the novice or experienced rider.
The alloy linear brakes of this well-designed mountain bike provide exceptional stopping ability when needed, regardless of road or trail surfaces. Adjustable seat height requires no specialized tools, and adjustments are completed in a few minutes.
With an overall weight of fewer than 40 pounds, this mountain bike continues a tradition backed by a well-known and respected company.
Pros
- It has wider than average knobby tires.
- Aluminum suspension frame provide maximizes comfort & performance.
- 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur with SRAM twist shifters changes gears easily.
- It features a rigid mounted rear suspension spring.
Cons
- It is a bit heavy.
- The seats should be replaced.
- Poor-quality derailleurs.
- It is not for trail riding.
This bike has a lower than expected rating on Amazon even though the quoted price remains quite affordable.
8. Huffy Mountain Bike
Ideal for ages 13 and up, this smaller mountain bike is the perfect fit for riders with a minimum height of 5 feet.
It is built with Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur and micro-shift twist shifter that delivers 21 speeds for on-demand climbing, downhill, or pure, flat-out acceleration.
This charcoal gloss hardtail frame bike conquers difficult trails, helping riders reach the summit in less time with less effort. It’s Kolo 1200 front-mounted suspension glides over bumps and through dips providing a much smoother ride than thought possible.
This Huffy Mountain Bike has 26-inch knobby tires that dig deep into mud and dirt, maintaining traction through a variety of trail riding adventures.
Handlebars are raised slightly, keeping you in an upright comfortable position with less pressure on your shoulders, arms, and back.
With an affordability factor that is aimed towards all budget restrictions, buying one of these bikes may well be your great investment of the year.
Pros
- No need to worry about assembling as it shipped 90% assembled.
- 24″ X 1. 95″ knobby tires tear into dirt bike paths with ease.
- It has a quick release seat post.
- Crayton grips remain comfortable to the touch.
- Front/rear linear brakes for smooth stopping.
- It has a steel frame, making it durable.
Cons
- Some consumers report receiving damaged parts.
With a lower than the expected rating on Amazon because of shipment issues, this bike still remains a good buy.
It can be used as an entry-level or weekend bike, given its cheap prices and quality.
Click the following link for more information on this mountain bike:
Big fan of the brand Huffy? Check out our other Huffy Mountain Bike review here!
9. Dynacraft Men’s Equator Bike
Dynamic black frame with red accented wheels will draw the attention of anyone who appreciates quality when they see it.
The deluxe paint scheme of this Dynacraft Men’s Speed Equator Bike comes with highlighted graphic accents that make a bold statement while riding past others on the trail.
The full suspension of this bike is a much-welcomed feature.
As a one-size-fits-all vehicle, this bike is the right size, shape, and configuration to fit the majority of your family members starting at age 13. Its 18-inch frame is designed with dual support bracing from the vertical frame to the seat and back.
The placement of the well-padded saddle is good, with no obstructions for the rider.
With the 21-speed index derailleur poised and ready to take on the most aggressive trails, this 26-inch mountain brings the heat to meet and defeat all competitors’ models.
Pros
- The black and red color combination in the body and stylish frame.
- Front/rear steel brakes to prevent an accident.
- It features VL-320D quality levers.
- It has alloy rims.
- There is a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty on frame and forks.
- There is also a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty on component parts.
Cons
- It requires additional assembly.
- The package doesn’t include tools for assembly.
- The alloy wheels are not good for trail riding.
Unfortunately, this bike has a lower than average rating on Amazon. However, it is currently the cheapest.
Consumers need to take note that all mountain bikes are built within precise, engineered tolerances and should be assembled by a qualified professional.
See what else this bike offers by clicking the following link:
10. Falcon 26” Mountain Bike
Just looking at this bike makes you want to jump on it and ride. Designed as a dual suspension aluminum frame road- or off-road bike, it offers many riding options.
Its front and rear suspensions keep your tires in contact with the ground for greater control when turning sharp corners or rolling over rocks.
Given its features, the Merax Falcon Full Suspension Mountain Bike is a good deal for the money spent. It is designed and built with the latest features that will cost you if you choose other competing models.
The 21-speed Shimano derailleurs allow you to either power through steeper hills or glide smoothly on road surfaces.
It’s also got high-grade handlebars designed to reduce strain and stress on arms and shoulders.
Past users say that the frame is contoured to fit the natural shape of one’s body with an adjustable saddle on the frame.
The bike’s attractive styles and good color options will certainly turn heads. At such a low price offering, this bike continuous to offer the best for less.
Pros
- Super lightweight 26” aluminum frame with long-lasting durability and easy transportability.
- Shimano 21 Speed Shifters and derailleurs provide easy pedaling and reliable shifting.
- Linear pull brakes provide enhanced stopping power.
- It has interchangeable levers, brake pads, and cables.
- Its wheels have double alloy rims.
Cons
- It is not good for longer rides.
- It has noticeable vibrations.
- The seat is slightly uncomfortable and may need to be replaced.
This Merax Falcon 26-inch has an excellent rating on Amazon. Overall, it is a good entry-level mountain bike that will not disappoint. More information on this bike can be found at:
Things to Consider Before Buying a Cheap Mountain Bike
Gears
The number of gears should be based on the riding that you will be doing. When selecting bikes with gears, take into consideration your fitness level. Obviously, riding up steep hills will require more gears.
Mountain bikes typically come with two or three chainrings. Cassettes with 9, 10, or even 11 cogs are now the latest rage.
Geometry
The geometry of the rider is in direct proportion to the geometry of the bike. Choosing a bike that is too large based on the overall size of the rider is money wasted, placing the rider in possibly dangerous situations.
The geometry of the bike determines the length and angles that, in turn, defines the suspension fork. Rider and bike geometry must work in perfect unison, making for a more enjoyable riding experience, no matter the age or gender of the rider.
Getting the right bikes for seniors is as important as finding the perfect bike sizes for college students or even fun tricycles for kids. No matter what, there is one that fits every member of the family.
Suspension
Mountain bikes are classified into three groups: rigid, hardtail, and full. Rigid bikes are the most common type of mountain bikes.
As the name implies, rigid has no suspension or shock absorbing qualities. Hardtail bikes have suspension on the front wheel only.
There is no rear suspension on these bikes.
Full suspension mountain bikes have both front and rear suspensions. Full suspension bikes have the ability to lock out the rear suspension for better climbing power.
Brakes
There are two types of brakes on mountain bikes: disc and rim.
Disc brakes have replaced rim brakes on all models with the exception of entry-level bikes. Disc brakes grip onto a brake rotor mounted to the wheel hub.
It is available in two versions: hydraulic and cable-activated. Hydraulic is often the preferred with less finger effort and more aggressive stopping ability.
Rim brakes, on the other hand, grip on the wheel rims with cable-activation from the rider.
Cheaper than disc brakes, they are easier to adjust. However, they often damage the rims of your bike, resulting in full wheel replacement. Rim brakes have less stopping power in wet or muddy conditions.
Tires
Choosing the right tire will definitely enhance your riding experience.
Mountain bikes usually have tires with widths ranging from 2.25 to 2.4 inches. Wider tires will ultimately have better traction. Tubeless tires are your best bet for all types of mountain bike riding.
Wheel size
Mountain bike wheel sizes are either 26, 27.5, or 29-inch. The 27.5-inch wheel size offers a more practical solution with easy rolling on the roughest terrain.
The 29-inch wheels are faster but do require more effort to get rolling. These wheels are better for longer rides and remain a popular choice for cross-country riders.
The latest introduction to mountain bike wheels is the 650B (27.5-inch) tire which splits the difference between the 26-inch and 29-inch wheel size.
Weight
The standard weight of the typical mountain bike is 30 to 38 pounds.
There remain many differences in weight due to the composition of the bike and selected frame.
Alloy and aluminum frames are lighter; however, they may not have the durability for such extreme bike riding that a lot of people enjoy.
In rough terrains, carrying a heavy bike over miles of non-riding trails is not something you want to experience. For a better experience using folding mountain bikes are easy to carry any uneven terrains and makes your riding comfortable.
Conclusion
There is no better way to experience all the beauty of nature than when riding a mountain bike.
Leave all the frustrations and ever-demanding schedules from work behind and ride one of the best mountain bikes under 200 dollars.
There is a mountain bike out there that will fit not only your riding style but, more importantly, your budget.
From the mountains to the lake or venturing into the unknown wilderness, mountain biking gives you the opportunity to reconnect with nature. The top ten mountain bikes presented throughout this review offer you a brief glimpse into selecting a mountain bike that will fit your needs.
You owe it to yourself to experience all that bike riding has to offer. Stop waiting and take the initiative.
Discover the new you, today!
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