best mountain bikes under 500

Best Mountain Bikes Under $500 [Budget-Friendly MTBs]

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Have you ever felt a need for a perfect balance whatsoever you undergo in your life?

Be it your health, fitness, or any specific choices, an ideal balance of everything is much needed.

Similarly, in mountain biking, a perfect balance of a well-equipped mountain bike and its satisfying budget is what any buyer would certainly look out for in the first go.

Buying anything on the list importantly includes the maximum budget.

So are you always thinking about buying the best premium-level mountain bike with a minimum budget?

Let me be the help here, in that case, where you simply need to follow this article till the very end.

The journey of mountain biking is exceptionally refreshing and equally a roller coaster drive.

You simply need to stay balanced and focused on reaching the eventual heights.

Besides, mountain biking is one adventure-filled sport that brings along the gift of a number of benefits for your overall health and personality.

With a well-suited mountain bike that is a perfect accompaniment to your mountain biking journey, you can eventually get on the journey in style, achieving everything you desire.

Mountain biking is overall good for your physical and psychological health.

The habit of biking within nature keeps you physically fit and active, along with helping you attain peace and stability of mind.

So if you are a biking enthusiast who looks forward to achieving wellness or fitness with the help of the best mountain bikes at a low budget, this article becomes a must-read for you.

With concern to the budget, the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars for yourself or your loved ones are easily available these days.

Although the options in this category are comparatively less, it is easier for you to choose the best.

To your knowledge, the best mountain bikes under $500 are capable enough to face even the initial biking terrains as well as the aggressive and challenging off-road trails.

These mountain bikes feature solid frames, gear systems, suspension, brakes, and wheels that can effectively withstand aggressive situations.

So if you are a biking enthusiast who looks forward to achieving wellness or fitness with the help of the best mountain bikes at a low budget, this article becomes a must-read for you.

Hence, if you look ahead to the most budget-friendly mountain bike or, precisely, the best mountain bike under $500, read this article and decide for yourself.

With this, I intend to help all the biking enthusiasts out there, getting the most of it with a satisfactory budget.

Although mountain biking is mostly about expensive, high-end, flashy mountain bikes for many aggressive bikers or enthusiasts, getting the best under just a sum of 500 dollars is also worth going for many.

So let me begin with what I have in store for you. 

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 – Comparison Table

Name of MTBDrivetrain SpecialtyPrice
Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike
24 Speed		Best mountain bike under $500
Check here
Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike
21 Speed
Best full-suspension 29er under $500
Check here
 Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike21 SpeedBest budget dual suspension MTB under $500
Check here
Merax Hardtail Mountain Bicycles
21 Speed
Best entry-level MTB under $500
Check here
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch
21 Speed		 All-Time Best Mountain Bike Under $500
Check here
Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike
24 Speed		Best hardtail 29er MTB under $500
Check here
Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike
21 Speed
Best attractive design
Check here
Dynacraft Magna Front Shock Mountain 18 Speed
Best budget hardtail for kids
Check here
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike21 Speed
Best 29er under $500
Check here
Roadmaster – 26 Inches Granite Peak Men’s Mountain Bike18 Speed
Best value for money
Check here

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 – Review

1. Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike

The Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike features a sturdy, lightweight, and durable 6061 aluminum alloy frame.

This budget-friendly mountain bike has a powerful set of 27.5” knobby mountain wheels providing better traction and balance on bumpy trails and terrains.

The 24-speed SHIMANO drivetrain comprises a 4” SR Suntour XCT 27 coil spring suspension fork with an 80 mm travel capable enough to absorb all the bumps and thumps over rough surfaces.

The Tektro Aries mechanical disc braking system with 160 mm rotors is reliable and efficient for an overall safe and comfortable biking experience

 This Diamondback mountain bike is all suitable for entry-level as well as for aggressive biking expeditions.

Pros
  • The strong aluminum alloy frame gives the bike the desired strength and durability.
  • Available under $500 and works well for both entry-level starter bikers as well as for aggressive riders.
  • The custom-formed design and butted tubing provide a great balance of strength and weight while riding.
  • A quick and easy assembly of the bike can be done.
  • Required tools for assembly included.
  • Value for money.
Cons
  • The brakes are complex and make noise.
  • The front derailleur requires a professional adjustment.

2. Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike [Best Full-Suspension 29er Under $500]

This bike features a lightweight yet durable Aluminum full-suspension frame that is very comfortable over challenging terrains.

The robust suspension fork smoothes out the bumps and shocks that are experienced while riding.

The 21-speed Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike features a reliable rear derailleur with SRAM twist shifters that enable easy gear changing, providing an overall safe and controlled biking experience.

The 29” wide knobby alloy wheels with a quick-release front offer better traction and control, keeping the wheels in constant touch with the ground.

The alloy front & rear disc brakes are efficient and powerful that provides quick stopping power ensuring the complete safety of the rider.

Pros
  • The lightweight hardtail aluminum frame with a front suspension fork is robust and durable.
  • The bike is lightweight and fits taller riders more than 6’ in height.
  • 29” wide knobby mountain wheels provide the required traction for conquering rugged trail conditions.
  • The ZOOM alloy front & rear disc brakes are powerful and work efficiently on challenging terrains.
  • The Shimano rear derailleur changes the gears quickly and without making a click sound.
  • Best budget full-suspension 29er mountain bike to explore the trails and terrains.
  • Very affordable and budget-friendly as it is easily available below $500.
Cons
  • The instruction manual is not detailed and information-specific.
  • The clearance from the front wheel to the pedal when turning is very less that often lets the rider’s foot hitting the tire.

3. Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike [Best Budget Dual Suspension MTB Under $500]

This mountain bike is a budget-friendly, versatile bike for biking enthusiasts.

The 26-inch Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike is made with a powerful full suspension 6061 aluminum alloy MTB frame.

The durable frame features a floating beam suspension design connected to a suspension fork with a 65mm travel.

The SHIMANO 21-Speed drivetrain has reliable shifters with a Rear Tourney derailleur.

The front Disc braking system and the rear Linear Pull Brakes are efficient and provide quick and controlled stopping while taking sharp turns.

The 26” wheelset rests on lightweight double-wall alloy rims with 36 spokes that add strength and durability to the bike.

Pros
  • The full suspension lightweight aluminum frame with a floating beam suspension design connected to a suspension fork is highly durable and attractive.
  • The 26″ lightweight double-wall alloy rims with 36 spokes add strength and durability to the bike for a wonderful biking experience.
  • The Quick release seat post enables easy height adjustment.
  • Best compatible with any type of wet or dry surface.
  • It is a fully functional front and rear suspension bike
  • Easy to assemble and install the bike.
Cons
  • Inferior quality components equipped
  • While changing the higher and lower gears, the bike chain constantly hits the derailleur.

4. Merax Hardtail Mountain Bicycles [Best Entry-Level MTB Under $500]

This 26” mountain bike is made with the best lightweight and durable aluminum alloy frame.

The bike is compatible with riding over any type of wet or dry surface with utmost safety and comfort.

The SHIMANO 21-Speed drivetrain has reliable shifters and RD-TZ500 front and rear derailleurs for an overall safe biking experience.

The Merax Hardtail Mountain Bicycles has powerful front and rear mechanical disc brakes.

The KENDA 26″x1.95″ wheelset with a quick-release clamp is easy to install and provides better traction and speed modulation.

Pros
  • The lightweight and durable aluminum alloy frame is strong and sturdy.
  • The bike is lightweight and easy to handle.
  • The front and rear derailleurs provide smooth and noiseless shifting over the rough surface.
  • The mechanical disc brakes work great, and the front fork provides a very comfortable ride.
  • The ergonomically designed Seatpost is efficient and comfortable over longer rides.
  • The bike comes around 85% pre-assembled.
Cons
  • The components are of poor quality and are loosely fitted.
  • The frame is designed small, thus maintains an uncomfortable posture for the rider while biking.
  • The saddle is uncomfortable and has no padding virtually.

5. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch [All-Time Best Mountain Bike Under $500]

Throughout my career, Huffy Hardtail is my all-time favorite MTB irrespective of the budget and category. In fact, I have also listed this MTB in my list of All-Time Best Mountain Bikes from different categories.

This premium quality huffy 26” mountain bike features a durable hardtail steel frame that is super strong and sturdy.

The powerful suspension fork smoothly absorbs all the shocks over the rough, rooty terrains with ease.

The 21-Speed SHIMANO drivetrain with indexed TZ-31 rear derailleur and the efficient micro-shift twist shifters enable uphill climbing, downhill riding, or pure acceleration over flat terrains.

The Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch features extra-wide 26″x1.95″ knobby tires that provide better traction and control, maintaining the overall comfort of the biker.

The ride on this super sturdy mountain bike makes the challenging terrains much easier to explore.

Pros
  • The hardtail steel frame makes the bike more strong and sturdy.
  • The removable rear derailleur guard maintains consistent gear operation
  • A quick-release seat post enables easy height adjustment.
  • The slight-rise handlebar lets uplifting the biker preventing any strain and fatigue.
  • The ATB-type resin pedals on the three-piece crankset do not require much pedal power while riding over a rough surface.
  • The bike comes with the required toolset.
  • Kickstand included.
Cons
  • The bike’s seat is a bit hard and uncomfortable.
  • The gear system is weak.

6. Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike [Best Hardtail 29er Under MTB $500]

This mountain bike features a robust and sturdy aluminum frame with a powerful suspension fork that absorbs the bumps and thumps over rough and rooty terrains.

The Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike features a powerful front and rear mechanical disc braking system that provides quick stopping power while taking sharp turns.

The SHIMANO 24-Speed EZ Fire trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs let the rider experience several gears over any surface with ease and safety.

The Schwinn alloy crankset enables easy gear changing and is overall very low at maintenance.

The bike has 29”x2.25” super-wide knobby mountain tires that sit lightweight and strong double-wall alloy rims that provide strength and durability.

Pros
  • The lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy mountain frame makes the mountain bike strong and sturdy.
  • The super-wide 29” wheelset provides maximum stability and control.
  • The powerful front suspension lets the rider experience excellent gliding over bumpy trails.
  • The efficient front and rear disc braking system maintains the utmost safety during sharp and sudden turns.
  • The colored end plugs and rims make the bike look stylish and eye-catching.
  • Best reasonable hardtail 29er.
  • Easy to assemble and install the bike.
  • Highly suitable for taller riders.
Cons
  • fters are misaligned over handlebars.
  • The brake cable routing is done incorrectly and rubs against the tire.
  • The mountain bike requires expert assembly.

7. Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike [Best Attractive Design]

The mountain bike notably features a sturdy yet lightweight Hiland 17” aluminum frame that is equally durable.

The Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike has a 26” wheelset that provides a reliable grip while exploring the city roads or rough terrains.

The front and rear powerful disc brakes provide stable and controlled stopping power when needed.

The SHIMANO 21-speed drivetrain provides total control in every situation and gives an overall comfortable biking experience to the biker.

Specifically, premium quality components and bike parts are equipped that make Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike extremely reliable and efficient in terms of safety and performance.

Pros
  • The mountain bike is ideal for city walks and off-road expeditions.
  • The integrated 26” wheels, decals, and high-quality painted finish make the bike an extreme choice for young riders looking out for attractive bikes.
  • Choice of only the premium quality parts and components makes the bike more reliable and long-lasting.
  • The bike comes 85% pre-assembled.
  • Easy to assemble and install.
  • Free pedals and tools required for assembly are included.
  • It is highly suitable for riders above the height of 5’1”.
  • Kickstand included.
Cons
  • The disc brakes are warped.
  • The gear system is not aligned and synchronized.

8. Dynacraft Magna Mountain Bike [Best Budget Hardtail For Kids]

This 26” mountain bike is safe and comfortable for a great biking experience.

The Dynacraft Magna Mountain Bike features a hi-tensile sturdy steel frame that adds strength and durability to the bike.

The mountain bike has a powerful front shock to absorb the shocks, bumps, and thumps over rough terrains.

The 18-speed indexed shifting gear system lets you glide off-road comfortably and smoothly while playing off with the gears.

The front and rear linear-pull brakes are quick and reliable and enable controlled stopping over any surface, either dirt or wet.

Pros
  • The hi-tensile steel frame is sturdy and strong that is equally durable.
  • The front and rear linear-pull braking system enable quick and controlled stopping power.
  • The efficient front and rear twist grip shifters offer three speeds in the front and six speeds in the rear.
  • The bike comes with a quick-release seat post that makes easy height adjustment according to the rider’s maximum comfort.
  • The saddle is cushioned and comfortable.
  • The 18 speed indexed shifter gears give a perfect choice to the rider to make the ride much easier without getting tired.
  • A high-quality paint finish, custom graphics, and decals make the bike super attractive.
  • Extremely easy to install.
Cons
  • The bike is not suitable for short-height bikers.
  • The saddle is hard and comfortable.

9. Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike [Best 29er Under $500]

This mountain bike features an ultra-strong steel frame that makes the bike safer during expeditions on challenging terrains.

The 21-Speed shifters with a rear derailleur provide crisp and smooth navigation over patchy trails.

The Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike has a powerful front and rear alloy linear-pull braking system that offers quick stopping power.

The 24” all-terrain wide knobby mountain tires rest on lightweight and durable alloy wheels that enables balance and speed modulation during off-road biking.

This mountain bike is equipped with premium quality components a quick-release Seatpost for easy height adjustments according to the rider’s physical characteristics.

Pros
  • The available options of steel and aluminum frames make the biking experience incredible.
  • The premium quality Alloy crankset provides swift gearing and is low at maintenance.
  • 21-Speed shifters with rear derailleur provide smooth gear shifting on any type of terrain.
  • Quick-release seat post for easy height adjustment
  • Easy to assemble
  • Pocket friendly.
Cons
  • The chain is loosely fitted and falls off the chain guard easily.
  • The seat is not cushioned and is uncomfortable on longer rides.

Comparison Table for Top 3 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

NameFrameSpeedBrake StyleSuspension TypeRating
Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain BikeAluminum24 SpeedDiscFront4.6/5
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike
Aluminum and Steel
21 Speed		 Linear Pull
Front		4.2/5
Merax Hardtail Mountain Bicycles
Aluminum
21 Speed		 Disc
Front
4.2/5

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ques: What are the Best Mountain Bikes under $500?

Ans: According to studies and analysis, the top brands that manufacture the best mountain bikes under $500 are Diamondback, Schwinn, and Merax. The best is considered as Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike.

Ques: Should I prefer a full-suspension mountain bike or a hardtail while searching for the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars?

Ans: Full-suspension mountain bikes under 500 dollars, compared to those expensive ones, are heavy and may have a less effective suspension and inferior features. Hence, you are suggested to go for hardtail mountain bikes that are easily available under $500.

Ques: What kind of frame material is easily available in the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars?

Ans: For the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars, the easily available frame materials are Aluminum and Steel

Conclusion

With this, I have reached the conclusion that even though the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars sound were low in terms of budget, there is still the best you can obtain eventually.

At present, there are fewer options available in the markets or online for the best mountain bikes under $500.

But a satisfactory answer could be that making a wise choice out of them is not that difficult.

You need to be specific about certain points that notably include choosing a hardtail mountain bike, preferably over full-suspension bikes.

Full-suspension bikes are usually expensive and hence would not be available at this cost.

Further, you may go for either aluminum or steel frames, the wheel size preferably 27.5” or 29”, the brakes, and the suitable size.

Thus, with this article, I highlighted all the best available options and their specifications.

And I am sure that this piece of work, along with your clear understanding of your preferences and requirements, would indeed help you to get the best mountain bike under $500 for a refreshing journey of mountain biking.

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