The Top 10 Best Cheap Mountain Bikes for Bikers on a Budget in 2019

Mountain biking is its own breed. Its addictive nature makes any avid cyclist eager to get on those mountainous tracks time and time again. Whether you’re an experienced biker, or just learning the ropes, you should never have to miss out on the full experience of this exciting and adventurous sport.

However, not every bike is affordable for all budgets. That’s where we’ve got you covered.

Our list of the top 10 affordable mountain bikes will lead you through some of the best choices on the market. These are not only reliable, trustworthy and good quality, but also won’t break the bank. With our product specifications, descriptions and pros and cons, we will provide you with the most accurate and informative review of your potential outdoor companion.

Let’s get started with our list of the best affordable bikes in 2019.

1) Marin Hawk Hill 1 

The Marin Hawk Hill brand is a trusted and loved brand within the mountain biking world. This Hawk Hill 1 is a stable trial bike designed by those who know what even the most adventurous of routes entail. At $1,445, we’re starting our list on the higher price range, but we don’t think you’ll be left with any regrets.

Product Description 

Product Specification 

• 27.5” wheels x 2.3” tires
• 1×10 speed drivetrain
• 120mm frame X-Fusion O2 Pro R shock
• 130mm RockShox Recon RL fork
• 210 x 50mm X-Fusion O2 Pro R rear suspension 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• Suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides
• Strong suspension will handle heavy hits with no impact to the bike or its rider
• All-round smooth performance 

Cons

• The bike doesn’t have a dropper post
• More expensive than other options on the list 

Verdict

Marin Hawk Hill is a well-established brand, and it’s highly unlikely that any of their bikes will be far from ideal. Despite the tire specification not being the absolute best of its kind, this bike is designed for rough and rocky trails and will deliver.

This is a good cheap mountain bike, and its price is excellent for the product. However, it’s not on the lower side of the price range for affordable mountain bikes.

No drop post may be a bit inconvenient, but overall this bike is one of the best for its intended sport. This is a trail bike with a ‘fun’ ethos – you’ll finish your journeys always wanting more.

You can buy the Marin Hawk Hill 1 here.

2) Roscoe 7 Women’s 

This Roscoe bike is designed especially for, you guessed it, women. This bike allows for all abilities. Whether you’ve been biking for the first time or a long time, you know you’ll always be having a great time on this bike.

Product Description

• 100mm dropper post
• 120mm RockShox Judy Silver fork, XS size can go down to 100mm
• 1×12 drivetrain
• 27.5” x 2.8” wheels
• Hydraulic disk brakes 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• The saddle is designed for maximum comfort during this kind of biking
• Wide handlebars and a shorter stem allow for full control while riding
• The Solo Air spring adds air to your forks for springy, yet controlled movement

Cons

• The bike is quite heavy for its kind, weighing in at 32 pounds 

Verdict 

If you’re looking for the best affordable women’s mountain bikes this might be your noble steed. The structure of the bike prioritizes comfort so you can focus on enjoying the excitement of your ride.

We know it’s not all about looks, but with this Roscoe it’s hard not to love the glossy and subtle design. The mid-fat tires have a trail compatible tread, and you’ll have no trouble soaring through the terrain with these.

While the bike may be on the heavier side, you can’t argue with the extensive gear range and its ease of use. You can get further information, or buy this bike at Trek Bikes.

See Trek Bikes for how to buy.

3) Fezzari Wasatch Peak Comp 29er 

This Fezzari model has a sleek and strong stature, for an appealing look. It’s not just the look of this bike that is desirable – for years now Wasatch Peak has received awards for a bike that is the best value for money. It’s a perfect contender for our list.

Product Description 

Product Specification 

• 1×10 drivetrain
• 27.5-29” x 2.2-2.8” tires
• 130mm SR Suntour air fork
• 75-degree seat tube angle
• 68-degree head tube angle 

Pros and Cons

Pros

• This bike comes just below the $1k mark
• The 75-degree seat angle provides an optimum position for powerful pedaling
• You can get this bike customized to your preference via the website

Cons

• Suited for teen and young adult riders 

Verdict 

This is one of the best value mountain bikes, so we rate it highly in our top ten. A lower price doesn’t mean lower quality on most all the features on the bike. The bike is lightweight which means it’s both easy to get in and out of the car, and suitable to use for all kinds of rides.

However, with the angle towards XC racers and biking newbies, if you’re not in this category, then you may be wanting another kind of mountain bike.

Visit Fezzari to design and buy your own custom-made version.

4) Merax Finiss 26” 

If you’re searching for the cheapest mountain bike, you may have just found it. This Merax Finiss proves pursuing your hobby doesn’t have to set you back financially. Coming in below the $300 mark, this entry-level trail bike is simplistic, yet sturdy.

Product Description 

• 26” x 1.5” tires
• Derailleurs – Front: Shimano FD-TY500, Rear: RD-TY300
• Weight: 40lbs
• 24 gears
• Front suspension fork 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• The bike has a basic set-up, but the components are produced by Shimano, a popular and established cycling parts manufacturer
• The price of this bike is one you may struggle to find anywhere else
• This unisex model is perfect for those emerging into the mountain bike world who aren’t quite ready to go pro just yet

Cons

• The bike is slightly heavier than your average mountain model at 40lbs (18kg)
• The bike has a poor chain quality meaning it might have to be changed frequently
• The bikes tires are smaller in size than the typical size

Verdict 

This bike is a fitting representation of ‘you get what you pay for. The bike hasn’t got the most high quality of builds or components, but it will do the job. If you’re not an avid cyclist, or you don’t participate in this sport often, then buying this bike will aid you in the casual weekend mountain rides and won’t leave you feeling guilty for not using it often.

This budget downhill bike is a good model to test the waters with, and will hopefully be the first to start off your long and enjoyable MTB journey.

You can find this bike for purchase on Amazon.

5) Diamondback Hook

This model by Diamondback lives up to their expert bike-building reputation. It’s one of the best budget mountain bikes and is an all round people pleaser. It doesn’t just work like a dream, but it’s red and bright green choice of colors make it unique and easy on the eye.

Product Description

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• The design is optimal for maneuvering through mountainous terrains
• The WTB Vigilante tires provide a sturdy and reliable size and material to bear all grounds
• It’s price of around $700 makes it great for starters, and a price worth paying for quality 

Cons

• You will have to finish assembling the bike after you receive it 

Verdict

Enjoy this best mountain bike for the money with confidence. We love the sleek bright green aesthetic, which will leave you feeling bold on the tracks. While the bike isn’t extremely cheap, it’s not bad in the slightest for its caliber.

Having received 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, it’s clear previous buyers can’t find much to complain about with this bike. It’s a bit less advanced for avid mountain-bikers, but it surely won’t disappoint for starters looking to step it up a notch.

You can find the Diamondback on Amazon here 

6) Marin Rift Zone 2 

Making the list is another one of Marin’s own products. The rift zone is not for the faint-hearted, as it’s a bike that focuses on speed. This 29er MTB has earned itself Bicycling editors choice this year, so, Marin must be doing something right! 

Product Description 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• The Marin Rift Zone 2 is suitable for both advanced mountain biking and light racing
• It has a lot of key features for its price including hydraulic disk brakes, tubeless-ready wheels, dropper post and 1x drivetrain
• The composition of the tires allows you to roll over even the most challenging of terrain 

Cons

• This bike is cheap for what it is, but it’s on the higher end on our list
• This is more suited to experienced bikers, not entry level riders 

Verdict 

This mid-priced bike is proof that you don’t need to fork out thousands of dollars for a high quality ride. Its geometry makes this bike comfortable.

Although the bike is fast, it won’t win you races. However, it is sure to provide you with those thrills that MTBers are renowned for craving. This is a cheap 29 inch mountain bike, but you would never guess based on its appearance.

Find your nearest dealer for the Marin Rift Zone 2, here.

7) Rocky Mountain Growler 20 

On to the next cheap quality mountain bike, which has also won Editors Choice awards from Bicycling. While this bike isn’t the flashiest, lightest or fastest, this bike is an excellent performer. It also comes in below $1k, while having some desirable features.

Product Description 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• A stiff aluminum frame allows for stability on your trails
• The Shimano 1x drivetrain assists in excellent performance for a bike at this price range
• Coming in at $899 it’s a steal!

Cons

• The bike may be on the heavier side for some cyclists 

Verdict 

This model is better suited for new mountain-bikers, and its price range fits the bill for that. While the 1×9 drive train is on the less extensive side compared to other choices, its mid-fat tires make up for any versatility issues here.

The navy-blue finish on the bike is very attractive, if you’re looking for your first or second MTB to woo your buddies. This bike is on the heavier side, but the exterior remains seemingly lightweight. Named after the incredible stretch of North American mountains, this bike is suitable for any trail in such a rocky region -it will live up to your expectations.

Find out the price and more of the Rocky Mountain Growler 20 on their website.

8) Giant Stance 2 

This is the first Giant model on the list. As one of the biggest bike manufacturer’s in the world, we know that their bikes are trustworthy and of great quality. This Giant Stance 2 is a full suspension design, perfect for this kind of sport. Its fiery aesthetic is undeniably individual and will leave you in admiration.

Product Description 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• The 2x drivetrain is popular within the MTB community and creates a richer gear experience
• Its super shock absorbent components will ensure you’re not shook around too much on your ride, and work well with the rocky trail below you
• The Shimano hydraulic disk brakes ensure powerful stopping abilities 

Cons

• This bike is more weighty than those in the more expensive range
• The bottom bracket requires specific specialist tools to service 

Verdict

This is one of the best mountain bikes for the price. We love its full suspension abilities and intermediate gear range. Its ALUXX grade aluminum frame is one of the most fitting of its kind. It is not just comfortable – it will endure the unpredictability often found in MTB trails.

The 780mm bar and 50mm stem has proved a comfortable combination in terms of structure, and the adjustable fork is handy, too. While it does require specialist tools on some components because this brand being so prevalent, it’s unlikely bike stores won’t be able to help you.

Check out more and how to buy at Evo.

9) Kona Mahuna 

This hardtail is set to accompany you on any kind of trail you’re ready to explore – from forests, to dirt tracks, or the mountains themselves. Kona has been around for three decades and still have the same founding owners. With a company that’s made up only of passionate staff, we think the Kona Mahuna reflects their rich knowledge of MTB.

Product Description 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• Large WTB 29” are perfect for all terrains and help maintain momentum
• Tire tread is designed to co-operate with all terrains and rides, from the leisurely to the more advance biking
• This bike is the optimum weight for a mountain bike at 31lbs. This makes it maneuverable, weighting you down enough but not making it a struggle 

Cons

• The bikes front suspension is on the lower side of the sizing range. For a hardtail with this wheel size, the bicycle would benefit from larger fork travel 

Verdict 

The Kona Mahuna doesn’t leave too much to dislike. Coming in below $1000, its one of the best mountain bicycles for the money. Some of the features including tire size, hydraulic disk brakes and internal dropper post are ones you may typically find at a higher price.

The silky orange color of this bike gives it a professional look. Despite it being, arguably, an entry-level bike, this bike would suit bikers of all levels. The front suspension size is a bit of a let-down, though, as it could do with being 120mm for maximum shock absorption.

Click here to have a look into getting your own Kona Mahuna 2020.

10) Rockhopper Comp 

If your looking for your biking companion that’ll whiz you through you trails, the Rockhopper Comp might just be it. The Specialized edition of this bike has been in our lives almost as long as mountain-biking itself has.

This cross-country hardtail has a lot of the good qualities in a MTB that you would want. From a sturdy geometry and trail-ripping tires, right down to its lightweight, minimalist aesthetic, the Rockhopper Comp is impressive.

Product Description 

Pros and Cons 

Pros

• Its wide gear range, 11-36t, gives you freedom on your rides knowing you’ll be able to handle textured terrain and huge hills
• At $729.99 this bike is shockingly cheap for how high quality it is
• Adjustable geometry allows for rider-specific adjustments so you and your bike can work as the best possible pair 

Cons

• The front suspension is low on this bike. 80-100mm doesn’t really match up to it’s large tires and wide gear range

Verdict 

This might just be the best cheap mountain bike. Its price is affordable, and quality is not compromised just because of the price tag. The large tires with XC friendly tread means cyclists of any level can enjoy this bike and smash those shreds.

Internal cabling and a choice between red and grey or black and green colors allows for a clean and typically MTB-esque finish. The gear range will take you anywhere you want to go, while the Shimano disk brakes will effectively stop you or slow you down when you need to control your speed.

The front suspension is low, yes, but we think its other features and low budget price make up for this.

Get your Rockhopper Comp here.

Which is the Best Choice? 

If you love mountain biking as much as we do, you’ll know that it’s a great feeling to have the right companion to take you on your outdoor adventures.

In this list are some of the best mountain bikes for the money on the market in 2019. We hope you are able to connect with a mountain bike that’s suited to your level of experience. We encourage you to check out each option and keep track of each model’s pros and cons. It’s easy to mix up models once you’re comparing.

As we approach 2020 with these new models, don’t start the new year off with a new you- instead, begin anew with a new bike.