Are you looking for a mountain bike to get you through challenging terrains without losing its wheels? You find plenty of options online or in-stores. However, most mountain bikes can quickly burn a hole in your pocket. Investing in a good bike once rather than dealing with repair expenditure is true. But it should not cost you an arm or a leg to get such bikes. It is challenging to find the best mountain bikes under 500, but not impossible.
One of the key features you must consider is durability. Mountains have harsh curves and complicated terrains that you need to cross. A durable mountain bike will last you for more than a decade if you take good care of it. Mostly, people go for heavy frame mountain bikes thinking it’s more durable. However, a lightweight frame is critical if you want to bike around the mountains.
If you take riding seriously, we recommend you spike up your budget and get your hands on a sturdy bike. However, you must not invest more than $500 on a mountain bike if you are a beginner. It can be hard to decide which mountain bike to buy as a beginner. We are here to help you out with that. We have a few suggestions for beginners. In this article, you will find a list of the ten best mountain bikes under 500 that are definitely worth your money.
Comparison table of our top Pickups:
| Product | Brand | Wheel Size | Frame Material | What’s Special | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike | Schwinn | 29-inches | Aluminium | 24 gear-shifting options | Price |
| Mongoose Malus Mountain bike | Mongoose | 26-inches | Aluminium | Fat tires | Price |
| Vilano Blackjack Mountain bike | Vilano | 29-inches | Aluminium | Suspension fork with lockout | Price |
| Royce Union mountain bike | Royce Union | 24-inches | Aluminium | Ultra-smooth gear shifting | Price |
| Mongoose Switchback Mountain bike | Mongoose | 27.5-inches | Aluminium | Disc brakes | Price |
| Mongoose Dolomite mountain bike | Mongoose | 26-inches | Aluminium | Mountain bike, aluminum body, fat tire | Price |
| Gravity Full Suspension Mountain Bike | Gravity | 26-inches | Aluminium | Shimano shifters | Price |
| Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike | Schwinn | 27.5-inches | Aluminium | Knobby mountain tires | Price |
| Mongoose Impasse Mountain Bike | Mongoose | 29-inches | Aluminium | SRAM twist shifters | Price |
| Eurobike 21-speed men’s bike | Eurobike | 29-inches | Aluminium | 3-spoke Mag tires | Price |
1. Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike
- Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike provides a smooth riding experience due to its lightweight frame and robust shock-absorbing suspension.
- It has 24-gear shifting options at both the front and rear end, making the whole experience very smooth.
- The front and rear-end mechanical brake discs are a great feature as they provide more control in challenging terrains.
- The double alloy rims are added to the bike for a smooth riding experience as you feel bumps a lot less than usual.
- Lastly, the 29-inch tires are made up of durable material with 2.25 inches width, which helps avoid jerks and loss of control.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Schwinn |
| Wheel Size | 29-inches |
| Suspension Type | Front |
| Number of Speeds | 24 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | 24 gear-shifting options |
The Schwinn Bonafide Mountain bike has 24 options for gear shifting, which makes it better than Schwinn high timber mountain bike 21 gear options. Another feature that makes it stand out is its 29-inch wheel. The other model has a 26-inch wheel, which is great to ride around the neighborhood. However, Bonafide is made to provide a smooth ride on tough trails.
The Bonafide mountain bike has mechanical front and rear end brakes to avoid accidents. The brakes are easy to control and apply without any jerks. It is crisp in all conditions; hence, falling on challenging trails is reduced.
The 29-inch tires with 2.25 inches gap are designed to provide a steady riding experience. The aluminum alloy and robust suspension are two features that ensure the bike’s durability. You do not even have to deal with pesky maintenance as it does not need it. The bike is perfect for beginners and professionals as it has robust suspension forks for high shock absorption. You can travel through the bushes and hard trails without losing balance and lead your pack.
Pros
- 24 gear shifting options
- 29-inch tire
- Aluminum-steel body
- Powerful suspension fork
Cons
- Slightly wobbly
2. Mongoose Malus Mountain bike
- The Mongoose Malus Adult bike is excellent for beginners who would like more control as it has 26-inch tires with a 4-inch width.
- The fat tires are ideal for challenging terrains and complicated trails as they pass quickly over rocky surfaces.
- It is a versatile mountain bike ideal for transportation, trail riding, cruising, or simply keeping you fit.
- The mountain handlebar helps keep a user steady when passing through challenging trails.
- The mechanical brakes are also the highlight of the mountain bike as it is crisp and applies immediately.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Mongoose |
| Wheel Size | 26-inches |
| Suspension Type | Rigid |
| Number of Speeds | 7 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special Use | Fitness, cruiser, transportation |
In comparison to Mongoose Dolomite, Mongoose Malus is a good one as it is specifically made to support the weight of adults. The fat mountain-style tires are best for tall people as they provide support and tough pass-through trails without coming to a halt.
Mongoose Malus Mountain bike has 4-inch-wide tires with both heavy and light rims. The mountain handlebar is placed in the right position for proper back inclination. The alloy a-head system helps you control the speed and uniformity throughout.
The handlebar is also adjustable to suit a user’s height. With the beach cruiser paddles, you can easily pass through trails without hurting your leg muscles—the bike has a sturdy steel body and twister gears. You get the fun of thrilling ride and durability, all in one mountain bike.
Pros
- Fat tire
- 26-inch tire
- Great for tall people
- High-quality aluminum alloy
Cons
- Needs frequent greasing
3. Vilano Blackjack Mountain bike
- Vilano Blackjack Mountain bike is affordable yet durable as it has a lightweight steel frame.
- The hydroformed alloy is one of its best features as it rolls over bumps and hard trails smoothly.
- Vilano provides great online assistance and guidance for the repair and assembly of the product.
- A user gets 24-speed options with a gear shifter to have a good riding experience and more control.
- The robust suspension without a lockout is ideal for absorbing shocks.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Vilano |
| Wheel Size | 29-inches |
| Suspension Type | Front |
| Number of Speeds | 24 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Lightweight, Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike |
Compared to the Vilano Ridge bike, the Vilano Mountain bike is our preference as it has larger tires with excellent shock absorption technology. Despite being a mountain bike, you can still use it for running errands as it gives a smooth on and off-road experience.
Vilano Blackjack Mountain bike is an excellent investment as it is made with durable material to enhance its longevity. The steel frame is lightweight yet sturdy enough to endure damage caused by rough trails. The 80mm fork suspension without lock helps absorb powerful shocks.
The 24-speed controls are the best for riding through challenging trails. The smooth transition between gears gives you more control and steadiness. The seat is adjustable and comfortable for both tall and short people. The mechanical disc brakes apply smoothly even when you press them in haste. After reading the manual, it is straightforward to assemble and maintain; you are good to go.
Pros
- 24-speed controls
- 29-inch tire
- Adjustable seat
- 80mm fork suspension
Cons
- Needs frequent tuning
4. Royce Union mountain bike
- Royce Union mountain bike provides you with both functionalities and looks as its glossy steel frame looks super chic.
- With 21 speed options in the mountain bike, you can go for a slow or a fast ride depending upon your mood.
- The slight-raise and adjustable handlebar help you sit upright, which avoids back pain and body ache.
- You can easily pass-through dips and bumpy roads on this bike due to its robust fork suspension.
- The mountain bike provides efficient performance as you can easily switch between speeds using your index finger or thumb.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Royce Union |
| Wheel Size | 24-inches |
| Suspension Type | Front |
| Number of Speeds | 21 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Mountain bike, aluminum body, lightweight, 21 speeds |
Comparing Royce Union Mountain bike with Royce Union RHT bike, we feel like the RTT one provides more steadiness and control. The 24-inch wheel size is ample to skim through the trails and lead your pack. On top of that, the 15-inches lightweight frame is the best as you can easily carry it to your car.
We love the outlook of the Royce Union RTT mountain bike. The glossy silver exterior will make people stop and stare at it for a minute. The bike comes with a detailed manual and a toolbox, making it easier to assemble. We cannot appreciate the stopping power as the brakes backed by aluminum alloy apply super smoothly.
The Royce Union Mountain bike has a 21-speed option and a smooth gear shifting mechanism. It performs efficiently due to the suspension forks, which help quickly roll over rocky roads and bumps. The seat and handlebar are adjustable, super convenient to avoid back pain. The saddle has super high-quality stitching that does not rip off easily.
Pros
- 21-speed controls
- 24-inch tire
- High-quality saddle
- Shock-absorbing fork suspension
Cons
- Scratches easily
5. Mongoose Switchback Mountain bike
- The tectonic aluminum frame is one of the specialties of the Mongoose Switchback Bike as it adds durability and luster to it.
- The MTB saddle is perfect for longer rides as the material is comfortable and does not cause lower back pain.
- The internal cable routing is done with precision to ensure better protection without interfering with the look of the mountain bike.
- It comes with a detailed manual and various color options, making it suitable for beginners.
- The mechanical disc brakes provide security to users as they apply smoothly and have excellent stopping power.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Mongoose |
| Wheel Size | 27.5-inches |
| Suspension Type | Front |
| Number of Speeds | 18 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Mountain bike, aluminum body, lightweight |
Comparing the Mongoose Switchback Mountain bike with Mongoose Flat Rock bike, we feel it is more affordable and beginner-friendly. The lightweight tectonic aluminum frame is its start feature as it makes it look shiny and easy to carry. On top of that, the mechanical disc brakes provide added security and control in emergencies.
Mongoose Switchback Mountain bike is an excellent investment if you look for efficiency, control, and versatility. Its 27.5-inches tires with suspension forks are ideal for keeping the grip on the ground and absorbing shock when passing to complex terrains. The tectonic steel is high-quality and enhances the durability of the mountain bike even more.
The Mongoose Switchback bike has internal cable routing, which is done strategically for better efficiency. The mechanical disc brakes are situated at the front and rear end to enhance their stopping power. On the other hand, the MTB saddle makes it the best mountain bike under 500 as it is super comfortable and helps maintain proper posture.
Pros
- MTB saddle
- 27.5-inch tire
- Mechanical disc brake
- Internal cable routing
Cons
- Heavyweight
6. Mongoose Dolomite mountain bike
- The all-terrain knobby tires in the Mongoose Dolomite Mountain bike help provide a rider with a phenomenal off-the-road experience.
- Mongoose Dolomite has strong alloy-ring tires that provide outstanding support in keeping the weight down.
- The adjustable headset is one of the unique features as it can be adjusted according to height to enhance performance and speed.
- Consequently, the beach cruiser paddles with front and rear brakes help in a smooth ride even when rolling over sharp bumps.
- You can easily shift gear and shift between seven-speed settings to have a comfortable ride.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Mongoose |
| Wheel Size | 26-inches |
| Suspension Type | Rigid |
| Number of Speeds | 7 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Mountain bike, aluminum body, fat tire |
Comparing the Mongoose Switchback Mountain bike with Mongoose Dolomite bike, we think it is easier to work with due to its beach cruiser paddle. The beach cruiser paddle with front and rear brakes make navigating and controlling easier. Due to its fat tires, its tires have high-quality shock absorbers.
Mongoose Dolomite Mountain bike is one of the best mountain bikes under 500 as it provides speed, control, and efficiency. Its 26-inches tires with high-quality suspension forks are perfect for keeping the grip on the ground and absorbing shock when passing through an uneven surface. The steel body is high-quality and enhances the longevity of the mountain bike.
The Mongoose Dolomite bike provides the best off-road experience due to the supersized tires. The mechanical disc brakes offer excellent stopping power. The alloy rims help in keeping the weight down. The headset is adjustable according to the height, ideal for taking pressure off your lower back.
Pros
- Comfortable seat
- 26-inch tire
- Adjustable headset
- Aluminum alloy rims
Cons
- Cheap brakes
7. Gravity Full Suspension Mountain Bike
- The Gravity Full-Suspension Mountain bike is phenomenal and worth the money due to its durable aluminum frame.
- With the help of the front and rear disc gear, a user has complete control and stopping power at all times.
- The Shimano shifter helps quickly shift the gear when you are riding the bike faster.
- The dual suspension enhances the shock-absorbing quality of the bike and makes it ideal for the best off-the-road experience.
- You do not need to be an expert to assemble the bike or tune it before going for a challenging ride.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Gravity |
| Wheel Size | 26-inches |
| Suspension Type | Dual |
| Number of Speeds | 24 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Mountain bike, aluminum body, lightweight, dual suspension |
Comparing the FSA Gravity Mountain bikes to other best mountain bikes under 500 stands out due to their frame and finishes. The glossy finish attracts a lot of users as it gives the bike a cool look. The rear and front brakes are the best in providing control and stopping any potential accidents. It is excellent for beginners who want to take riding seriously in the future.
We simply love the outlook of the FSA Gravity Mountain bike. The shiny white exterior with a prominent logo will undoubtedly make you choose it over any other bike. The bike comes with an informative manual about the bike and its assembly to guide users. The brakes apply super smoothly, and its stopping power is worth appreciation.
The FSA Gravity Mountain bike has different speed options and a smooth gear shifting function. It performs efficiently because of high-quality suspension forks that help it pass over rocky roads and bumps easily. One of the unique features of the mountain bike is the quick wheel release function which is ideal for replacing tires.
Pros
- Different speed controls
- 26-inch tire
- Mechanical disc brake
- Shock-absorbing fork suspension
Cons
- Needs tuning before riding
8. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
- Schwinn Timber Mountain bike is affordable yet durable as it has a lightweight steel frame.
- The alloy crank works phenomenally to provide smooth gear shifting, which eventually keeps the bike in good shape.
- The all-terrain tires are the highlight of the bike as you have tremendous both on-road and off-road experience.
- A user gets 21-speed options with a gear shifter to have a great riding experience and achieve more steadiness on the road.
- The twist shifters work phenomenally to switch between gears with only one finger.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Schwinn |
| Wheel Size | 27.5-inches |
| Suspension Type | Dual |
| Number of Speeds | 21 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Mountain bike, lightweight |
In comparison to the Schwinn Traxion bike, the Schwinn Timber Mountain bike is our preference as it has larger tires with superior shock absorption technology. It has crisp brakes that provide you with immense stopping power avoiding potential accidents.
Schwinn Timber Mountain bike is an excellent investment as it is made with durable material to enhance its longevity. The robust steel exterior is sturdy enough to endure damage caused by rough trails. The fork suspension helps make your ride less shaky as they absorb shock really well.
The 21-speed controls are the best for riding through challenging terrains. The twist gear shifter gives you more control and steadiness. It is one of the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars as the seat is adjustable and comfortable for tall and short people. The mechanical disc brakes apply smoothly even when you press them in a hurry.
Pros
- 21-speed controls
- 27.5-inch tire
- Quick-release seat
- fork suspension for shock absorption
Cons
- Scratches very easily
9. Mongoose Impasse Mountain Bike
- Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike is excellent for beginners who would like more control as it has 29-inch tires that roll over bumps smoothly.
- The tires are ideal for tough terrains and difficult trails as they have shock absorbers to provide more stability.
- It is a versatile mountain bike as it is ideal for transportation, trail riding, cruising, or riding around the neighborhood.
- The 21-speed options paired with the SRAM twist shifter are a phenomenal combination for both fast and slow riding.
- The mechanic brakes are also the key feature of the mountain bike as they are crisp and apply immediately.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Mongoose |
| Wheel Size | 29-inches |
| Suspension Type | Dual |
| Number of Speeds | 21 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | lightweight |
Compared to Mongoose Dolomite, Mongoose Impasse is a winner for us as it is specifically made to adjust according to user weight and height. The SRAM gear twister is one of its best features as it allows shifting between 21 speeds very quickly.
The Mongoose Impasse Mountain bike has 29-inch-wide tires with both heavy and light rims. The mountain handlebar is adjustable; it helps in putting less stress on the back, making you feel more relaxed throughout. It has rear and front alloy disc brakes that apply smoothly without jerks.
The handlebar is adjustable according to a user’s height. With the element suspension fork, you can easily pass through bumpy trails without hurting yourself with the element suspension fork. It has a sturdy steel body and twister gears for quick speed shifting. It is an all-in-one bike which is best to learn riding.
Pros
- Sturdy steel body
- 29-inch tire
- Adjustable headset
- High-quality aluminum alloy
Cons
- Hard to assemble
10. Eurobike 21-speed men’s bike
- The Eurobike 21-speed cycle is made with heavy-duty aluminum alloy making it a durable choice.
- The front and rear braking systems provide smooth stopping action on rugged paths.
- The bike comes 85% assembled, taking the load off your back to call for professional help.
- The bike’s frame is lighter than iron and has excellent endurance against rust.
- The 3-spoke mag wheels provide superb grip on the road avoiding accidents.
Key Specifications:
| Bike Type | Mountain bike |
| Brand | Eurobike |
| Wheel Size | 29-inches |
| Suspension Type | Front |
| Number of Speeds | 21 |
| Frame Material | Aluminium |
| Special feature | Lightweight |
The Eurobike 21-speed men’s cycle has an adjustable seat, making it better than the Eurobike HY X5 aluminum mountain bike, as you can easily adjust it according to your height. Another feature that makes the Eurobike 21-speed men’s bike stand out is its 27.5-inch wheel. The other models have 27.5-inch wheels, which are great to ride around the neighborhood. However, the 21-speed bike is made to overcome challenges and provide enough support for a smooth ride.
The Eurobike men’s cycle has mechanical front and rear-ends brakes to avoid accidents. The brakes are easy to control and apply without any jerks. It is crisp in all conditions; hence, falling on challenging trails is reduced. The stopping action is commendable, giving you more control.
The 29-inch tires with substantial gaps provide a smooth riding experience. The robust front suspension and aluminum fork are two features that ensure the bike’s durability. The 3-spoke Meg tires add more grip to them, avoiding accidents.
If you are looking for mountain bikes under 500 dollars, then Eurobike is perfect for beginners and professionals both as it has robust suspension forks for high shock absorption. The 21-speed options and Shimano accessories make it more durable.
Pros
- 21 gear shifting options
- 29-inch tire
- Aluminum-alloy body
- Powerful front suspension fork
Cons
- Uncomfortable steering bar
Conclusion
You cannot take a normal bike to ride through rough trails. It can be intimidating to invest in a $1000 mountain bike as a beginner. You can get great features in a $500 mountain bike if you do your research. After deep market research, we found the ten best mountain bikes under 500, which we mentioned above. We hope you will be able to pick out a durable one for yourself and start riding right away.
