Cycling and mountain biking has become a very popular past time in recent years. If you’re searching for a mountain bike read on, this article will give you details of the best mountain bikes for less than $500 for men and women. It will also look at the top suspension mountain bikes and give you details of what to consider before buying a mountain bike.
In a Hurry? Top Picks
Best Men’s Mountain Bike Under $500
Royce Union Men’s’ Gravel Bike
- Royce Union RMG Gravel Bike is designed to excel in any terrain no matter the conditions; aluminum frame provides superior handling and acceleration to tackle the tightest turns and the steepest hills and dips
- The rigid aluminum frame and alloy 3-piece crank with precision specifications provide unrivaled gravel riding performance
- Shimano EZ Fire Trigger Shifters allow for split-second shifting; dual Shimano disc brakes generate precise and reliable stopping power in all weather conditions
- Full Shimano drivetrain effortlessly transfers power from the rider to the rear wheel; ATB saddle is extremely comfortable on long rides and is easily adjustable with the quick release seat binder
- 27.5” x 1.95” All-Terrain tires; switch from the road to the trail seamlessly; Shimano Claris rear derailleur provides you with 16 speeds to best suit your riding style; kickstand not included
The Royce Union gravel bike is excellent for a variety of different terrains and cycling conditions. It has a durable aluminum frame that offers a lighter ride. Once you’ve assembled this mountain bike, it will require very little maintenance.
This bike is easy to ride on all surfaces, so you’ll easily be able to switch from a dirt trail to the road. It has good quality brakes and sixteen gear speeds.
Pro’s
- Has a durable and rigid steel fork
- Comes with 27. 5″ by 1. 95″ all-terrain tires
- Gears for 16 speeds
- Has disc brakes that allow for quick stopping
Con’s
- No water bottle holder mounting points on the frame
Mongoose Status Mountain Bike
- Aluminum mountain bike frame with hydroformed tubing, and a powerful front suspension fork offers strength and reliability, with 26-inch wheels fit to riders 5'4" to 6'2" tall
- Seamless gear changes on every ride with the 21-speed shifters, ensuring a smooth and effortless cycling experience
- Biking out on the trail, rely on the front and rear V-brakes for swift and efficient stopping power, ensuring quick and safe stops
- Lightweight and durable alloy rims, paired with 26 x 2.125-inch (diameter x width) tires, this bicycle effortlessly rolls over any terrain
- Arrives 80% assembled, tools required: Socket wrench, 4-8 mm Allen wrenches, 15 mm open-end wrench or adjustable wrench, scissors, grease, phillips and flat blade screwdriver
The Mongoose Status Mountain bike has a robust hydroformed frame, and this combined with the powerful front suspension fork creates a fantastic ride. This bike has twenty-one speeds, and you’ll be able to change gears smoothly.
Pro’s
- Has good quality front and rear v brakes
- This is a lightweight bike which is enjoyable to cycle
- It has durable alloy rims
- Tires are 26″ by 2.125 inch
- Has riser handlebar and colored end plugs
Con’s
- Some people have reported that the assembly instructions are difficult to understand.
Hiram Men’s Mountain Bike
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The Hiram Men’s mountain bike is very lightweight and easy to ride. It has an aluminum frame that allows you to climb uphill trails and fly fearlessly downhill effortlessly. It has three front gears and seven at the back, which creates a combined twenty-one-speed bike.
This bike comes with high-performance wheels and tires, as well as a one year warranty. You’ll be able to ride safely at high speeds and can stop quickly and effortlessly. This bike is recommended for adults and kids over twelve years of age. Anyone who’s up to 330 lbs can ride this bike.
Pro’s
- It comes in four different color schemes.
- The suspension fork can absorb shocks and bumps on rough off-road trails.
- Lightweight and durable tires
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Con’s
- Not much to fault with this bike
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
- Vibrant Red Gloss Frame: Built with a bold red gloss finish, this bike combines striking style with durable construction perfect for adventurous young riders.
- 21-Speed Shimano Twist Shifting: Features a reliable Shimano 21-speed drivetrain for seamless gear changes, ensuring smooth performance on hills, trails, and flat roads.
- Front Suspension System: Equipped with a front suspension fork to absorb bumps and shocks, providing a comfortable and controlled ride on uneven terrain.
- Comfortable Saddle Design: Designed with a padded comfort saddle to keep riders supported during long rides, making every adventure enjoyable and fatigue-free.
- Perfect for Active Boys: With its 24-inch wheels and sturdy frame, this bike is ideal for growing riders eager to explore the outdoors and take on new challenges.
The Huffy Hardtail Mountain bike is an excellent choice for teenagers between the ages of twelve and nineteen. It has a high shine, glossy red frame, and twenty-one speeds.
This bike has a durable steel frame, a suspension fork, and handle bumps and dips which provide a smoother-feeling ride.
Pro’s
- Color: red
- Easy to change gears
- Comes with 24″ by 1.95″ knobby tires
- Easy seat height adjustment
Con’s
- There are some reports that the gears aren’t very good.
Best Women’s Mountain Bike Under $500
Huffy Bicycle Company Hardtail Mountain Bike
- Elegant Gloss Indigo Frame: Designed with a striking gloss indigo finish, this bike combines beauty and durability, perfect for young riders ready for outdoor adventures.
- 21-Speed Shimano Twist Shifting: Equipped with a smooth and reliable Shimano 21-speed drivetrain, offering effortless gear changes for tackling hills, trails, and city streets.
- Front Suspension System: Features a front suspension fork that absorbs bumps and uneven terrain, ensuring a more comfortable and controlled riding experience.
- Comfortable Saddle Design: Includes a padded comfort saddle to provide lasting support, keeping young cyclists comfortable during long rides and exciting trail excursions.
- Sized for Growing Riders: Built with 24-inch wheels, this mountain bike is ideal for girls seeking adventure, offering stability, reliability, and style in every ride.
The Huffy Bicycle Company Hardtail Mountain Bike has a purple, gloss frame and twenty-one gears that allow you to ride up and down the trails to your heart’s content. This bike has fork suspension, which will handle bumps and will give you a smoother ride.
This bike is excellent for long distances and allows you to climb uphill and ride downhill. The gears are easy to change. It has tires that are 24″ by 1. 95″, making this bike perfect for a teenage girl or petite women.
Pro’s
- There’s an assembly tutorial video which will help you put the bike together
- Comes with knobby tires which are great for dirt paths
- Fantastic pull hand brakes which provide a short stopping distance
- Has a padded saddle which is easy to adjust
- Has slight-rise handlebars for an upright riding position
Con’s
- There are reports that the peddles often loosen after cycling more than 10 miles.
Mongoose Status Mountain Bike for Men and Women
- Aluminum mountain bike frame with hydroformed tubing, and a powerful front suspension fork offers strength and reliability, with 26-inch wheels fit to riders 5'4" to 6'2" tall
- Seamless gear changes on every ride with the 21-speed shifters, ensuring a smooth and effortless cycling experience
- Biking out on the trail, rely on the front and rear V-brakes for swift and efficient stopping power, ensuring quick and safe stops
- Lightweight and durable alloy rims, paired with 26 x 2.125-inch (diameter x width) tires, this bicycle effortlessly rolls over any terrain
- Arrives 80% assembled, tools required: Socket wrench, 4-8 mm Allen wrenches, 15 mm open-end wrench or adjustable wrench, scissors, grease, phillips and flat blade screwdriver
The Mongoose Status Mountain Bike is a great unisex bike. It has an aluminum frame with a powerful front suspension fork. This bike is strong and reliable, and it allows you to explore even the bumpiest mountain bike trails safely.
This bike has twenty-one speeds, fast-acting v-brakes, and is lightweight and easy to ride.
Pro’s
- Easy to change gears; 21 speeds
- Front and rear v-brakes
- Wheels are light and durable
- Tire size 26″ by 2.125 inches
- Can be used on all types of tracks and surfaces
- Has a riser handlebar that comes with a colored end plug to match the bike.
Con’s
- Not much
Dynacraft Magna Major Damage Boys BMX Street/Dirt Bike
- Front Shock Fork
- Front and Rear Linear Pull Brakes
- Quick release seat post
Although the title would suggest this is a boy’s bike, the photos and description seem to show otherwise. This is an elegant bike with a solid steel frame, and a lovely pink and purple paint finish.
This mountain bike has a front shock absorber and is great for going over bumps, dips, and downhill runs.
Pro’s
- Front and back pull brakes
- 18 speeds
- Adjustable padded seat
- 26” wheels
Con’s
- The seat is a bit uncomfortable.
Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids
- Lightweight 15-inch steel frame and dual suspension fork for enhanced stability, 24-inch wheels designed for riders ages 8 to 15, or suggested rider height of 4'8" to 5'6" tall
- 21-speed shifters ensure fast, accurate gear changes for smooth and efficient riding
- Front and rear linear pull brakes provide all condition breaking for sure stops
- Durable 3-piece crankset for improved strength and easy maintenance
- Arrives 80% assembled, you will need the following tools: a Phillips head screwdriver, 2.5-8mm Allen wrenches, and an adjustable wrench
The Mongoose Exlipse mountain bike is great for teenage girls or more petite women. It has 24-inch wheels and is an attractive, bright pink color. This bike has full suspension, which is excellent for enjoying the mountain bike paths.
The Mongoose Exlipse mountain bike has a hardwearing, durable steel frame that is lightweight and easy to ride. Its breaks are fantastic and provide safe and sure-stopping even when coming downhill at tops speeds. There are twenty-one gears that are smooth and easy to shift.
Pro’s
- Color: pink
- 21 speeds
- Full suspension
Con’s
- Some customers have had problems putting the bike together.
Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes Under $500
Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame: Crafted meticulously from 6061 heat-treated aluminum, the top-tier 26-inch dual suspension mountain bike frame seamlessly blends durability with lightweight prowess, tipping the scales at a mere 36...
- Front Alloy Rims And Linear Pull Brakes: Fitted with powerful brakes providing significant stopping force, our bikes ensure ample control and safety during rides on trails and neighborhood streets. They also ensure enduring...
- Quick Release Adjustable Seat Post: Delicately tailor the saddle height to suit developing riders. This mountain bike guarantees an ergonomically sound and comfortable riding experience that evolves seamlessly with its growth.
- Ride With Confidence: Effortlessly change gears with a wrist flick, enhancing ease of use during rides. These mountain bikes provide effortless and reliable shifting through 21 gears, offering versatility for various terrains.
- Trusted Brand: With over a century of cycling heritage, Kent International Inc. began in Manhattan in 1907. Evolving into a global leader in cycling innovation, we navigate through challenges and embrace new ventures to uphold our...
Northwoods mountain bike is excellent value for money and perfect if you’re looking for a smaller mountain bike for a young adult. It has a 26-inch wheel and is lightweight. Assembly is quick and easy and takes about half an hour.
This bike has full suspension and twenty-one speeds; it would be great for exploring mountain bike trails.
Pro’s
- Has an Aluminum Frame with a 50mm Steel Fork
- 26-inch alloy wheels
- 21 different speeds and gears that easily change by twisting
Con’s
- A little on the small side, but it would be great if you’re looking for a mountain bike for a teenager.
26in Carbon Steel Mountain Bike Shimanos
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This is the perfect mountain bike for riders who weigh up to 90kg and are a height of between 160-180cm. It has wheels that are lightweight and durable. This bike has advanced suspension, which makes it look fashionable.
It’s made from high-carbon steel, which makes it hardwearing and long-lasting and has 21-speeds. The wheels are 26-inches, and the six-spoke stylish design makes this a safe bike to ride.
Pro’s
- This bike has front and back disc brakes
- Comes with a comfortable seat
- Rider weight: 90kg
- Rider height: 160cm-180cm.
Con’s
- Has small mudguards that aren’t that effective.
Allshiny 26inch Folding Mountain Bike
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The allshiny 26-inch folding mountain bike is suitable for men and women. It has a very lightweight and portable design, so that you can easily carry it to the beginning of the mountain bike tracks.
This bike has an advanced suspension system, disc brakes, and a foldable frame.
Pro’s
- A mechanically folding bike
- Company provides fast delivery
- Advanced Suspension
- Unisex design
Con’s
- May not be as hardwearing as other models due to its foldable design.
The Best Mountain Bike Guide Under $500: Buyers Guide
If you’re looking to get fit, have fun, and perhaps lose some weight in the process, you may like to try mountain biking. Whether you’re racing through the forests, cycling along a track in one of the national parks, or merely biking to your friend’s house, cycling is an excellent form of exercise and mode of transport.
There are many different types of mountain bikes on the market, which can be confusing for beginners. There are many things you should think about if you’re looking to buy your first mountain bike or are considering upgrading to a newer model.
Mountain Bike Styles
There are several different styles of mountain bikes available, including bikes that have been designed specifically for men or women and bikes with full suspension. You must choose a bike that suits your riding style as well as the type of terrain you’re likely to be cycling on.
Mountain bikes usually fall into one of three categories. They are either downhill mountain bikes, full-suspension bikes, or cross-country mountain bikes. Before purchasing a mountain bike, you should consider what type of trail you’ll be riding on and how far you’ll be riding it.
If you plan to cycle downhill on dirt tracks and long slopes, you should choose a downhill mountain bike with features such as a chain guard and mudguards. It should also have good quality brakes.
If you love the intensity of trail riding, where you’re likely to go up and down hills and over bumps, you’ll need a full-suspension mountain bike. You can even try out some jumps, go over ramps or do tricks on this type of bike. A full-suspension bike has both front and rear suspension. There is suspension at the crossbar and on the front fork.
Are you planning to cycle longer distances on tracks that may be bumpy and also on flatter roads? If so, you should probably invest in a cross-country mountain bike. These bikes are lightweight, which allows you to cover longer distances with ease. They are also strong and stable, making them suitable for use on tracks and trails.
Bike Comfort
If you’re planning to spend hours every week cycling, it’s essential to choose a comfortable bike. It’s well known that bike seats are not the most comfortable, and you could end up with saddle soar if you spend too long cycling. You may need to buy some cycling shorts to reduce this problem.
However, some mountain bikes have more comfortable seats than others, and if comfort is a priority for you, you should look for a gel seat or one with more padding.
You’ll also want to choose a bike that feels comfortable to ride, some mountain bikes are quite heavy and as a result, are harder to cycle uphill. Therefore, you should choose one that has adequate gears to allow you to cycle uphill without overly exerting yourself.
Choose a bike that matches not only your style of riding but also your height, fitness levels, and flexibility. Mountain bikes come in various sizes and weights. They have different sized wheels, and you should consider your height before buying a bike. In general, wheels are either 24 or 26 inches in diameter. The average adult will need a bike with 26-inch wheels, 24 inch wheels are great for teenagers and smaller adults.
Budget
Before looking for a mountain bike, consider your budget as mountain bikes come in a variety of prices. If you’re a beginner cyclist, you can get a good bike for $500 or less, these are entry-level bikes and allow you to try out mountain biking for an affordable price.
There is also specialist off-road or dirt bikes that cost $ 1000’s of dollars; these are designed for more experienced riders.
Features of a Mountain bike
Mountain bikes come with several features, they have different numbers of gears, and some have chunkier wheels, for example. Before buying a bike, you should consider the brakes, wheel size, and the number of gears. Also, consider the material the frame and saddle are made from.
Conclusion
The price of a mountain bike is likely to depend on its quality and on the features that are included. If you’re new to mountain biking, it’s best to buy an entry-level bike that costs $500 or less. There are some very good bikes on the market that fall into this price bracket.
These mountain bikes usually have basic features that you can replace and upgrade when you need to. For example, you may choose to add mudguards to your bike or a more comfortable saddle; these can be added later when you’ve had time to try your bike out.
Last update on 2024-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API