When it comes to starting mountain biking, one of the biggest questions that come to mind is what bike to buy.
Selecting a suitable bike is a crucial aspect of ensuring you enjoy your mountain biking experience, but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start.
Choosing a bike that is good, beautiful, and affordable is one of the main guidelines that one should always go by, even though the answer to this question is individualised and depends on the individual.
Yet, if you have $500 to spend, you may still locate a great mountain bike that will suit your needs without breaking the bank.
Fortunately, there is a huge selection of models available, each with a different set of features and ranges in price.
The six greatest mountain bikes from the 2021 season under $500 have been chosen by ride4hugo.com since we know how difficult it can be to find the ideal mountain bike within a limited budget.
Our selection criteria were based on value for money, quality of components, durability, and performance.
So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider on a tight budget, our list of mountain bikes is guaranteed to offer you the best bang for your buck.
The 7 Best Mountain Bike Under $500
As someone who has been in the bike touring business for over a decade, I have encountered many bike types and brands.
My agency has acquired almost a hundred bikes, from road to hybrid bikes and city to mountain bikes. Throughout the years, I have emphasized purchasing bikes that offer excellent value for their price.
One of the most in-demand bike types that we have is the mountain bike. However, for many, investing in a high-end mountain bike may not be feasible. Thus, in this article, I will be highlighting the best mountain bikes that can be purchased for less than $500.
While some may assume that a low-budget mountain bike would automatically compromise on quality, that’s only sometimes the case.
In truth, with the correct information and research, one may locate a mountain bike that gives a pleasant and fun ride.
1. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Brand: Schwinn
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 27.5 Inches
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Suspension Type: Dual
- Special Feature: Lightweight, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Bicycle
The Schwinn High Timber offers riders a customizable experience to match their preferences and riding style thanks to its steel and aluminum frame material choices.
A lightweight aluminum frame is an excellent option for riders who value speed and agility on the trails.
However, the steel frame is solid and long-lasting, making it an excellent option for riders who value strength and stability.
The Schwinn High Timber has excellent performance features regardless of the frame material you select.
While the alloy linear-pull brakes offer dependable stopping power in any circumstance, the 21-speed twist shifters and rear derailleur facilitate effortless gear changes.
The bike is agile and maneuverable thanks to the lightweight alloy rims and wide, knobby all-terrain tires, which offer excellent traction and stability on even the most demanding trails.
You can easily modify the bike to fit your riding preferences and ensure maximum comfort and performance on every ride with the added convenience of a quick-release seat post.
You can feel secure in your purchase and have peace of mind knowing that a limited lifetime warranty covers the Schwinn High Timber.
The Schwinn High Timber is the ideal bike for all your adventures, regardless of your level of mountain biking experience.
2. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Brand: Huffy
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Suspension Type: Front
- Special Feature: Lightweight, 21 speed, Aluminum Frame, Mountain Bike
- Included Components: A Bike
If you’re in the market for a mountain bike and don’t want to spend more than $500, consider this excellent bike.
The Huffy Hardtail’s high tensile strength hardtail frame is one of its most notable characteristics. Its frame is made to last, so it can handle even the toughest trails with ease.
The Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur and the bike’s 21 gears give you the precision you need to confidently tackle challenging terrain, including steep inclines and complex obstacles.
The Huffy Hardtail isn’t simply a sturdy, adaptable, and comfy bike to ride.
No matter how long you plan on spending on your bike, you’ll be able to ride in comfort and support on this premium padded ATB saddle with stitched sides.
It has knobby 26″ x 1.95″ tyres, so it’s great for muddy or dry conditions on gravel and dirt roads.
The price of a Huffy Hardtail is surprisingly low. One of the greatest deals on the market at the moment, and it costs less than $500. The provided tools and straightforward instructions mean you’ll be ready to hit the road in no time.
If you want a reliable mountain bike that won’t break the budget, the Huffy Hardtail is your best bet.
It’s one of the best mountain bikes under $500 because to its sturdy hardtail frame, Shimano drivetrain, and ergonomic design; it’ll quickly become your preferred mode of transportation on all your off-road excursions.
3. Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Number of Speeds: 7
- Color: Matte Black
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Suspension Type: Rear, Front
- Special Feature: Fat tire, Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Lock
This excellent bike boasts massive broad tires that can shred through snow, mud and anything else you throw.
With the Malus, you’ll never have to worry about your bike’s performance on rough terrain again.
Despite the fact that Mongoose makes several excellent bikes, serious mountain riders prefer the Malus.
Its mechanical disc brakes offer outstanding stopping power, and its 26-inch wheels and knobby 4-inch-wide tyres make it appropriate for any surface.
You can take this bike anywhere confidently, knowing it will perform flawlessly.
The Malus also has Shimano components, such as a rear derailleur and a 17-gear ratio. A fat bike normally doesn’t have gears, thus this is unique.
But the Malus demonstrates that performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of speed. You can traverse any trail thanks to your speed and agility.
Avoid buying a cheap bike that can’t tackle the challenging terrain you want to explore. Get the exhilaration of overcoming any difficulty by trying out the Malus.
The Malus is the ideal option for anyone searching for a fun and adventurous ride, regardless of your level of mountain biking experience. then why wait?
Buy a Mongoose Malus Fat Bike today to advance your mountain biking endeavours!
4. Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Color: Matte Black/Blue
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Suspension Type: Dual
- Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Schwinn S29 Mountain Bike
Schwinn separates out from the competition when looking for the ideal mountain bike. It’s not surprising that their mountain bikes are especially stunning given their reputation for manufacturing high-quality bicycles.
These bikes include components that are absolutely top-notch, with an unmatched emphasis on strength and durability.
You won’t find a greater value for the money than Schwinn in terms of durable components and wheels.
The excellent brakes on Schwinn mountain bikes are one of their best attributes. Schwinn doesn’t skimp on parts, especially when it comes to brakes, in comparison to less expensive mountain bikes.
Their mountain bikes are a game-changer, providing you the advantage you need to easily navigate even the most difficult terrain thanks to their 29-inch wheels and strong disc brakes.
Also, you’ll benefit from even better performance and control thanks to knobby mountain tyres with a diameter of 2.1 inches.
There are a few shortcomings, of course, as with every product. It might not be the greatest option for novices because assembling the bike requires some mechanical expertise.
It might be harder to accelerate because it weighs a little bit more than some other mountain bikes. The bike’s numerous advantages, however, considerably outweigh these slight drawbacks.
The 21-speed SRAM gear on the Schwinn S29 features precise shifting and dependable performance. Furthermore, the bike’s strength is increased thanks to the addition of double-walled rims, ensuring that it can withstand even the most trying circumstances.
Also, even though this bike’s suspension wasn’t specifically made for riding off-road, it nevertheless offers exceptional comfort on even the most difficult tracks.
The Schwinn S29 is the mountain bike to choose if you’re seeking for complete suspension that provides unmatched quality and performance.
This bicycle is genuinely unique, boasting top-notch parts and a well-thought-out design. Choose Schwinn and take a ride of a lifetime rather than settling for less.
5. Schwinn Bonafide Mens Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Color: Matte Black/Red
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Suspension Type: Front
- Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Schwinn Bonafied Mountain Bike
One of the standout features of this bike is its impressive suspension fork, designed to absorb all bumps in the road. This means you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride wherever your adventure takes you.
Plus, with 24 speeds at your disposal, you’ll have complete control over your ride, making it easier to tackle any obstacle that comes your way.
But that’s not all; this bike also includes a Shimano shifter that makes changing gears simple, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the ride rather than fumbling with your gear.
And with double-walled rims, you can rest assured that this bike is built to last, providing you with years of reliable performance.
A five-year guarantee adds to your peace of mind when you purchase the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike.
Treat yourself to the best bike on the market, and prepare to take your adventures to the next level!
6. Kent Hawkeye Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Brand: Kent International
- Number of Speeds: 21
- Color: Black/white
- Wheel Size: 29 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Suspension Type: Front
- Special Feature: Lightweight, 21 speed, Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Partially assembled bike;instructions
With a suspension fork and a frame made of 6061 aluminum, the Kent Hawkeye offers excellent handling and can handle even the most difficult trails. Additionally, with an 18″ frame size, it fits riders of all sizes perfectly.
However, the bike’s 29-inch wheels steal the show. Engineered for speed and smoothness, these wheels will let you fly over any obstacles in your path. Additionally, the suspension system is robust enough to withstand any knocks and bruises encountered along the way.
With the EF-41 Rapid Fire Shifter and other high-quality Shimano parts, changing gears has never been simpler. Additionally, you can stop instantly and maintain control at all times thanks to dependable mechanical disc brakes.
The best part? All of this and more is available for less than $500! Yes, you can now purchase one of the most amazing bikes on the market. The ride of a lifetime is only available while supplies last, so don’t procrastinate too long in making your move.
So what are you waiting for? Get your Kent Hawkeye today and enjoy the excitement of the ride!
7. Hiland 26 27.5 Inch Mountain Bike for Women
Key Features
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Number of Speeds: 24
- Color: Green&red
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Suspension Type: Front
- Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
- Included Components: Lock, Tool Kit
The HH HILAND is a quality mountain bike that offers excellent value for women who are searching for a reliable and high-performing bike without breaking the bank.
This bike is a great option for those who are on a tight budget but don’t want to skimp on quality or features because it is priced under $500.
One of the prominent aspects of the HH HILAND is its lightweight aluminium frame, which is both sturdy and durable. Because it can easily handle rough terrain, this makes it ideal for long days spent hiking.
Also, the reduced standover height of this bike design is particularly useful for shorter riders and women, providing a more comfortable and secure fit.
Another key feature of the HH HILAND is its dual mechanical disc brakes, which offer more control and stopping power even on wet days.
With its 24-speed 3*8 drivetrain, which offers precise and quick shifting, it is simple to adapt to various riding terrains and conditions.
The HH HILAND can handle ascents, descents, and turns. The front suspension fork smooths out road bumps and its wide range of gears makes riding more fun.
For level-surface riders, locking the suspension fork boosts pedal efficiency, speed, and energy savings by 20%.
For riders between 5 feet 1 and 5 feet 6 inches, the HH HILAND is available in two sizes, 26 and 27.5. The tyres are made of slip- and blast-resistant materials, which are not easily punctured and provide excellent grip.
Female riders will find the bike seat to be comfortable because it is also adjustable, breathable, and non-slip.
The HH HILAND can be put together quickly—in less than 25 minutes—thanks to its 85% pre-assembled parts, included tools, and lack of a kickstand.
On the product page, a video tutorial is available for those who require more help, and customer service is open to address any queries or issues.
Overall, the HH HILAND is one of the best mountain bikes under $500 for women, offering a wide range of features and benefits at an affordable price point.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Mountain Bike
If you’re planning to buy a mountain bike, there are several things you should consider to make an informed decision. Here are some important factors to take into account:
Your Riding Style and Terrain
Your riding style and the terrain you’ll be riding on should be your top priorities. Each kind and design of mountain bike is specific to a particular riding style.
For instance, you might want a bike with a light frame and small tyres if you intend to ride cross-country.
You’ll need a bike with a robust frame, full suspension, and wide tyres if downhill riding is more your thing. Before choosing a mountain bike, consider your riding style and the terrain you’ll be riding on.
Frame Size
To ensure your comfort and safety, choose the proper frame size. An uncomfortable ride and diminished performance can result from a bike that is too big or undersized. Brands differ in terms of frame size, which is often expressed in inches.
You should measure the distance from the upright tube’s base to the ground in order to obtain an exact measurement, and then utilise a sizing guide to determine the appropriate frame size for you.
Be sure to consider additional criteria, such as your leg and torso lengths, in addition to your height.
Braking System
When riding a mountain bike, the braking system is crucial for your safety. Rim brakes and disc brakes are the two primary categories of brakes.
Rim brakes are less expensive and simpler to maintain, but they might not be as reliable in muddy or rainy situations. Contrarily, disc brakes are more effective and strong but also more expensive and need more upkeep.
Due to its consistent and dependable performance, experienced mountain bikers frequently favour hydraulic disc brakes.
Suspension
The suspension system is in charge of muffling bumpy terrain and absorbing shocks. Coil spring and air suspension are the two different categories of suspension systems.
Although simpler and more cheap than air suspension, coil spring suspension may not offer as much adjustability.
Serious mountain bikers frequently choose air suspension since it lets you to modify the pressure and rebound for various riding conditions. Think about your riding style and the terrain you’ll be riding on before choosing a suspension system.
Components
The gear, wheels, and handlebars of a mountain bike, as well as other parts, can have a big impact on how you ride. Higher-end parts frequently give superior performance, are lighter, and are more resilient.
They do, however, cost more money. While choosing parts for your mountain bike, take into account your spending limit and riding objectives.
Fit and Comfort
Make sure your mountain bike is comfortable to ride and that it fits you well. You can control the bike effectively and efficiently if you have a good fit.
You can ride farther and more leisurely if your bike is comfy. To discover the best fit and level of comfort for you, test-ride numerous bikes.
You may choose a mountain bike that suits your needs, style, and price by taking these considerations into account. When selecting a choice, keep in mind to give importance to performance, comfort, and safety.
