Best Mountain Bikes Under $500

The rise in popularity of world-class off-road cycling has generated a renewed interest in mountain bikes. There are numerous mountain bikes available in different price ranges. These bikes are more than just for sport alone. They are being sought out for casual use, as well. And yes, some for fashion.

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

Today, a lot of people are into mountain biking. You've seen the commercials, the movies, and the bikes everywhere. The modern mountain bike, however, is a shining example of what happens when technology has been applied to expectations. Read more to know about the best mountain bikes available in terms of their quality and features under $500.

RECOMMENDED MOUNTAIN BIKES UNDER $500

Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24 Inch, 21-Speed,...
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women,...
Mongoose Malus Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Bicycle...
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels,...
Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24 Inch, 21-Speed,...
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women,...
Mongoose Malus Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Bicycle...
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels,...
Wheel Size
24"
29"
26"
26''
Speeds
21
7-21
7
21
Handlebar
Slight-rise
Upright
Upright
Upright
Frame
Steel
Aluminum and Steel
Alloy
Aluminum
Disk Brake
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
knobby mountain tires
Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24 Inch, 21-Speed,...
Huffy Stone Mountain Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24 Inch, 21-Speed,...
Wheel Size
24"
Speeds
21
Handlebar
Slight-rise
Frame
Steel
Disk Brake
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
knobby mountain tires
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women,...
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women,...
Wheel Size
29"
Speeds
7-21
Handlebar
Upright
Frame
Aluminum and Steel
Disk Brake
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
knobby mountain tires
Mongoose Malus Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Bicycle...
Mongoose Malus Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Bicycle...
Wheel Size
26"
Speeds
7
Handlebar
Upright
Frame
Alloy
Disk Brake
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
knobby mountain tires
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels,...
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels,...
Wheel Size
26''
Speeds
21
Handlebar
Upright
Frame
Aluminum
Disk Brake
Front Suspension
Rear Suspension
knobby mountain tires

BEST MOUNTAIN BIKES UNDER $500 REVIEW

1) HUFFY STONE - BEST HARDTAIL MOUNTAIN BIKE UNDER 500

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

FEAtures:

  • The rear derailleur gives extra protection to the riders
  • ATB-type resin pedals on the 3-piece crank have a responsive feel
  • 26" X 1.95" knobby tires tear into dirt bike paths with ease
  • 9 different colors are available for this version
  • Seats are adjustable for different heights of riders
  • The bike is available in 8 different sizes for different needs
  • The suspension is kolo 1200 for a smooth ride
  • Comfortable Kraton grips for long rides.

This huffy Stone Mountain bike is ready for your mountain climbing ride. There is a total of 21 operating speeds given in the manual. This bike is ideal for age groups starting from 11 up to more.

This bike has an indexed Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur combined with a micro-shift twist that protects you against any bumps and uneven terrain. You can easily enjoy the ride smoothly. It delivers 21 speeds for uphill climbing, downhill riding, or pure acceleration. The gear operation is removable with a rear derailleur guard.

The tires are of 26" X 1.95" dimensions made with knobby to easily go through dirt bike paths. The Brake system is flawless, with linear hand brakes that deliver consistent stopping action. The premium padded ATB saddle has the latest quality with stitched sides. The seat of the bike is easily adjustable because of the alloy.

The handlebar of this huffy Stone Mountain bike is raised to reduce your back and shoulder strain. Pedals of the bike have a 3-piece crank. Grab the mountain bike for your splendid adventure.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • The handle offers a comfortable grip
  • The hardtail frame allows high endurance ride
  • Twisters allow great change of speed
  • The twist shifters offer fast and reliable gear changes
  • The Shimano 21 speed drive train offers reliable shifting and comfortable gearing

2) SCHWINN HIGH TIMBER - BEST WOMEN'S MOUNTAIN BIKE UNDER $500

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

FEAtures:

  • 21-Speed twist shifters with rear derailleur give smooth navigation.
  • Pull brakes provide precision stopping power.
  • The alloy wheels feature lightweight strength.
  • High Timber's seat post lets you make easy height adjustments

This bike is one of the affordable bikes, which is perfect for first-time mountain riders. Good-looking and easy maintenance components accompany it.

The lightweight and aluminum frame with which the bike is made gives a lightweight to the bike. The mountain bike is equipped with comfortable saddle and platform pedals at this price. You can ride smoothly for longer durations with this 21-speed drive train.

The bike's mechanical disc in front and rear are major plus points for you. Schwinn High Timber is the best mountain bike at this price, with 29″ wide tires that improve comfort and stability. The size of the tires is the most important thing for a beginner to look into. The bike is durable enough for riding in the neighborhood and has uneven terrain.

An alloy crank in gear gives you steady control with fewer maintenance works. The quick gear change is an added advantage of this bike with a rear derailleur. Mountain slopes do not remain as an obstacle for the bike.

Do not hesitate to buy this bike if you want a comfortable ride at a low price. 

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • The bike is excellent for beginners
  • Wheels are made of alloy
  • The gear can be changed accordingly
  • Steel aluminum frame gives stability
  • The tires are 29" wide that gives good grip

3) MONGOOSE MALUS - BEST FAT TIRE MOUNTAIN BIKE UNDER 500

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

FEAtures:

  • The tires are framed with steel for riding in the mountains
  • The rear derailleur helps you to move swiftly
  • Rear and Front disc brakes are there for stopping and controlling the bike
  • Fat, knobby 4-inch wide mountain tires can move smoothly over uneven terrains
  • 4-inch alloy rims are light and strong
  • Alloy keeps you in complete control out on the trail
  • It can easily roll over debris and small rocks
  • The bike has dual disc brakes in front and rear wheels.

This company manufactures a variety of mountain bikes where this Malus version is the most comfortable one. Fat bikes in this era are becoming popular, so this model comes first when you start choosing bikes under $500.

It is the most logical choice among others because of its Knobby 4″ wide tires and Mechanical disc brakes. Fat bikes come in robust shapes and have less complicated features than others have that make the perfect mountain bike for beginners. Disc brakes are the most chosen option because of their stopping power. There are sets of mechanical disc brakes consisting of varieties of strengths and engagements. V brakes are less efficient than mechanical disc brakes.

This mountain bike is manufactured with a steel frame that gives an additional level of comfort while riding along with added strength. The speed is controllable with moderate weight because heavy bikes are complex to control and move. There are no other bikes at this affordable price. It comes with a 1×7 drive train operated with a Shimano rear derailleur.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • The bike has good looks to which people stare
  • The assembly parts of the bike are straight-forward
  • The price is low as compared to the components
  • Up-gradation of this bike is available
  • The frame of the bike is made with a cruiser design

4) MONGOOSE STATUS - FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE UNDER 500

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

FEAtures:

  • The aluminum frame gives stability to the bike
  • Front suspension forks make your bike control properly
  • The gear system has a front disc and rear v-brakes
  • Rims consist of light alloys
  • The brake is extraordinary compared to other bikes
  • Tires are oversized with 2.3" wide
  • The bike is stylish and reliable to ride
  • A powerful suspension fork and rear shock for a smooth ride.

This bike is manufactured for both men and women for riding in the uneven terrains of the mountain. It is composed of an aluminum frame and a front suspension fork. The aluminum gives it the proper stability and durability of the frame. It is one of the powerful bikes under $500. It has lightweight components yet effortlessly rides over the mountains.

The front disc brakes and rear v-brake have a beautiful combination of stopping power. Generally, mountain bikes have disc brakes, but this bike has both. It helps in coping up with the comfortable riding style of each person.

No matter at which speeds the bike is, the gear system will make it stop anywhere. You will experience a stable ride with this bike smoothly. Alloy rims and 2.3-inch wide tires roll easily over small rocks, pebbles, and light snow on the mountains.

You need not fear anymore while going down because of the lightweight rims. The bike is manufactured in a stylish design for you by whom every obstacle in the path can be enjoyed.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • SRAM twist shifters let you shift the bike quickly
  • Aluminum MTB frame is filled with hydroformed tubing
  • 21-speed shifters enable smooth gear changes
  • Rims are made with Light, durable alloy
  • The riser handlebar has colored end plugs

5) HUFFY VALCON 20" - BEST MTB UNDER 500

Best Mountain Bikes Under 500

FEAtures:

  • Shimano rear derailleur gives seamless shifting
  • Six types of speeds enable smooth riding for kids
  • The rear suspension absorbs bumps and dips
  • Suspension shock is present in the rear subframe
  • Suspension fork keep the front wheel under control
  • Improved handling and control with good brake systems
  • The frame is made with steel that is quite durable
  • Adjustable seat lets you ride comfortably

This mountain bike is manufactured with fast and easy assembling parts. It is ideal for people aged 5-9 years with 44-56 inches in height.

They are mainly for kids who love adventures. The mountain bike's frame is a sleek charcoal grey color with 20-inches wide tires. The full suspension system of the bike lets your kid ride a bike like a real adventure. Six types of speeds are available that are pretty more for a kid to ride. 

The Shimano derailleur lets you control the grip easily with a smooth transition. The gears in this bike are removable that protect you against uneven terrains. Front and rear steel gears consist of handbrakes that make you stop anywhere on demand. The road's small rocks and bumps can be avoided easily with a kolo front suspension fork and rear spring shock absorbents.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • The front-wheel has an easy-align head tube
  • Twist shifter is paired with a Shimano rear derailleur
  • Comfortable for kids to tackle big hills
  • Suspension shock on the rear subframe
  • Reliable shifting between six speeds.

6) GRAVITY FSX 1.0 - BEST DUAL FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE UNDER 500

FEAtures:

  • The suspension system of the bike is super amazing
  • Disc brakes are located on both sides
  • The aluminum frame makes the bike durable and long-lasting
  • Shimano shifters let you shift the handle smoothly
  • The alloy rims are sturdy to travel uneven paths
  • Front shock can be adjusted
  • The seat is adjustable for the beginners

The gravity dual full suspension mountain bike is designed for you as a perfect sports bike for beginners. It lets you ride comfortably with great suspension systems in front and back.

There are disc brakes present on both wheels that make you stop the bike anywhere you like. Braking systems are essential in mountain regions because of the uneven slopes and terrains. This bike is no exception to the rest, where the frame is made with durable steel aluminum. It makes the bike super stable to control and lightweight.

It is quite easy for beginners to ride the two-Shimano shifters with a single twist. The wall of the rims in this bike allows it to become sturdy and long-lasting. No matter where you take the bike and ride, it at any speed, but it will bear everything with its components. You will spend more time on the trail than on the feet. Grab this super amazing bike under $500 with the latest features and benefits.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Assemble and tune the bike before riding
  • Up-gradation is available according to your choice
  • The front and rear suspension is adjustable
  • Front and rear wheels can be quickly releasable.
  • Shimano shifters are easy to use

7) HILAND - BEST FULL-SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE

FEAtures:

  • Suspension of the mountain bike is comfortable for the beginners
  • Shimano 21-speed lets you gain more capability
  • Stability to ride over the bumps increases with the good suspension system
  • Disc brake systems feature immediate stopping
  • The 18-inch frame of the bike is suitable for tall people
  • A major part of the bike is kept assembled while buying
  • Fat tires let you ride on uneven terrains

The Hiland full suspension bike is ready to go mountain bike for kids very early. Riding this bike will make your health and mind healthy simultaneously.

This is one of the versatile best mountain bikes under $500. It goes extremely well on both mountains and even on the road. The 26" wide tires make you move smoothly at any path. Front suspension is so good with its amazing control.

The aluminum frame keeps your bike sturdy for a long period. The bike is suitable for teenagers and adults, depending on the version. The height of the seat can be adjusted accordingly. The model goes out of stock quickly because of its high demand. This mountain bike is friendly for beginners who love to explore places and undertake adventures.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ensures total control with Shimano derailleur
  • Full suspension reduces jerking over bumps
  • Disc brakes increase stopping power
  • Alloy wheels are durable for riding over mountains
  • Straight handlebars make your ride powerfully

BUYER'S GUIDE FOR BEST MOUNTAIN BIKES UNDER $500

Frame

Choosing the size of your mountain bike is essential because companies are manufacturing small bikes with shrunken seats. Large bikes and extended seats are uncomfortable to carry. Generally, the size depends upon each company because there are no standards in constituting a bike.

Suspension

Suspensions are major components that are required in high quality. These depend on the type of mountain bike you are riding. Mountain terrains are full of bumps and high-low regions. To make your ride smooth among the uneven terrains, suspensions are required. This can be found easily in mountain bikes under $500.

Brakes

Apart from other things, brakes are the essential component of your bike because they stop your bike from moving further. Watch out for bikes with good brake systems. Mountains are such places where you need to stop your bike at any time. Brake systems are easy to operate and do not require high maintenance.

Gear

Gears are the essential component to look for in mountain bikes. Lower gears are used when climbing uphill and high gear for uphill. Go for lower gears but more substantial traction. On the other hand, high gears make your bike move faster with lesser traction on the ground.

Tires

Look after the wheel size because larger tires give more acceleration when you ride. Smaller tires are more prone to accidents. There are mountain bikes available with different types of tires and definitions. Always try to go for 27.5 or 29er tire sizes. Tires with a small diameter will also work but choose the best grip.

Adjustments

Always look for mountain bikes that are efficient to ride and make you comfortable. The adjustments of your bike depend on the systematic parts where several models can be changed accordingly. Replacements are available for each specific part as the country is filled with high-terrain

Wheel size

Buy the wheels that are made with alloys. These wheels increase the stability and durability of the wheel size. It makes the bike long-lasting and lets you ride on uneven slopes and terrains. Fat wheels can be ridden anywhere for both beginners and adults.

Control

Mountain roads are full of pebbles and uneven bumps. You can accidentally fall without paying attention. Choose the mountain bike with controllable handles. Choose the gears from 18 to 27-speed. It depends upon the gear combinations, that is sprockets and eight rear cassettes.

FAQ

1. Is buying a used mountain bike worth it?

Buying an old material can save a lot of money, but it does not have a warranty. It is worth it in terms of money but not for quality. There can be cracks, which are not visible from the outside. Suspension and brake systems are also essential components to look into. It is better to purchase a new product because old ones have many invisible defaults inside.

2. Are mountain bikes faster than road bikes?

Road bikes are faster than mountain bikes because of Riding posture, rolling resistance, frame geometry, and weight features. Mountains are full of uneven terrains and slopes, while roads are straight with no or little bumps.

3. Can you use mountain bikes on paved roads?

Yes, you can use mountain bikes on paved roads, but the journey will be difficult. Mountain bikes have traditional knobby tires, so it is not suitable on paved roads. It will be harder to pedal.

CONCLUSION

After going through the list above, choose the best mountain bike for your kid or yourself under $500. The descriptions and benefits here are given after proper research and analysis. Mountain bikes are in high demand, especially if you live in high terrain regions. However, these can be ridden on normal roads as well. The features and components of the bikes are tailor-made for withstanding every type of road and terrain.

So before it is too late, grab your version. Have fun with your friends and explore an endless adventure with your mountain bike. Now that mountain biking is more accessible than ever before; it appears that it's time to re-think what a mountain bike is.

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