Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000 Dollars | Mountain Bike Reviews
You may need to find out what the best mountain bike is for many reasons. We help you get going across mountain trails or through the forest and afar.
A well-designed and affordable mountain bike will make this possible. In this article, we’re revealing a comprehensive list of the top mountain bikes under $1,000.
Further to your consideration, we’re assessing the engineering pros and cons. Each bike on this list provides optimal performance for several situations. Which mountain bike is best for you may vary somewhat based on your needs.
Whatever your riding style, these tried & tested bicycles offer something for everyone.
How We Choose Mountain Bikes
Since they were first introduced, the technology available on mountain bikes has changed measurably. Frames are available in steel, aluminum, titanium, and even carbon-fiber materials. Many mountain bikes feature disc brake technology.
Bikes are available with many more gears, such as 24-speeds, or even 30-speeds. Front and rear suspension are available similar to that found on a mountain bike, only smaller.
Bicycle engineers are focusing on creating the lightest but strongest bike possible out of many exotic materials, and this can quickly drive the cost of a mountain bike up. If you are currently thinking about buying a mountain bike, don’t worry. There are many great mountain bikes available that cost under $1000.
Top 5 Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000 [Comparison]
Best Mountain Bikes Under 1000 Dollars
Now, take your time to browse through the insightful review, I’m going to review top ten mountain bikes under $1000. I combed the internet for the best mountain bikes, and narrowed it down to the following ten bikes available for sale.
Diamondback Overdrive 29 Hardtail Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- With silver matte finish frame
- Have 100mm front suspension
- Comes with reliable X4 Components
- Features suspension lock and preload
- Boasts light Aluminium Alloy Frame 6061-T6
Features:
Strong Frame
The Diamondback overdrive mountain bike features enhanced aluminum overdrive frame that has innovatively-shaped down and top tubes, artificial dropouts, a disposable derailleur hanger, and a machined head tube. Its frame features a silver matte finish providing the frame with a supercar stimulated feel and look.
Braking System
This Diamondback mountain bike is built with an efficient braking system. This system includes Tektro Draco hydraulic disc brakes that have six-inch rotors. This braking system performs extremely well bringing the larger wheels down from speed, especially on level ground.
Simple to Assemble
Diamondback bikes get rid of the usual hassle and bustle of the tedious at-home assembly. This bike lets you spend little time assembling your new mountain bike and gives you more time to ride it. All you require to do is to set up the front wheel, pedals, and the seat. Yes, the derailleurs are adjusted, and the brakes are dialed in: just pump the tires and cycle!
Pros:
- Have reliable X4 components
- With 100mm front suspension
- Features suspension lock and preload
- Built with light aluminum frame 6061-T6
Cons:
- Have heavy components
What’s Our Final Verdict?
Whether you are new to mountain bikes or you just want to move your trail riding to the next level on 29-inch wheels, the Diamondback Overdrive 29 Hardtail Mountain Bike will surely get you out having incredible fun. Don’t hesitate to buy one and revolutionize your riding experience.
2018 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- Features front and rear disc brakes
- Have simple to use Shimano shifters
- Front and rear quick release wheels
- Have light and strong double wall rims
- With front and rear adjustable suspension
- With durable and sturdy aluminum frames
Features:
Powerful Braking System
When you’re speeding downwards on a steep incline, you should have the ability to stop. This mountain bike is fitted with Tektro Novella rear and front disc brakes that enhance your stopping power ensuring that it is precise and swift. This preserves the integrity of your mountain bike while enhancing your safety.
Innovative Technology
The Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike uses CantiBeam single pivot technology combined with Shimano shifting technology. This innovative technology has been combined to make your ride more enjoyable and smoother. It also ensures that your cycling performance is incredibly efficient.
Entry Level Dual Suspension
Unlike the hard tail model or the rigid bikes, the dual suspension feature of this bike comes with more comfort, especially on loose surfaces and rugged terrains. This functions as an excellent shock absorber particularly on the rooty and rocky mountain trails. This innovative feature also makes it simple for heavier people to ride the mountain bike with ease without interfering with their comfort.
Pros:
- Pocket friendly
- Reliable braking system
- Lightweight construction
- Offers comfortable and smooth ride
- Assembling is just a snap- comes 80% assembled
Cons:
- No kickstand
Final Verdict
Looking to get out of your comfort zone? Then a well-designed mountain bicycle is all you need! The Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain bike is designed to ensure a comfortable, stable, and smooth ride even on the roughest trails.
Merax Finiss 26″ Aluminum Mg Alloy Wheel Mountain Bike
Specifications in a Quick View
- With Mechanical Disc brakes
- With Weight Capacity of 330 lbs
- Features Shimano-EF51 21 Speed shifters
- Frame built with Heat-Treated Aluminum
- Brake Levers are built from Shimano Aluminum
- With Aluminum suspension fork that has lockout
- Wheels built from Lightweight Magnesium Alloy
Features:
Sporty Magnesium Alloy Wheels
The wheels of the mountain bike are elegant and built from magnesium alloy material which is incredibly light. These wheels have a size of 26 inch which is ideal for Merax Finiss 26 mountain bikes. The bike’s wheels are also specially designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride, especially on bumpy and rocky trails.
Dual Disc Brakes
Rider’s safety is a critical concern in mountain biking. This bike is a perfect choice when it comes to safety because of the powerful rear and front brakes. These front brakes are designed to be less responsive providing you with better control.
The Suspension Mechanism
The mountain bicycle features an 80mm suspension fork ensuring a smoother ride on any bumpy and hard terrain. This minimizes the shocks due to poor road condition. The suspension mechanism also provides you with increased control over the bicycle. The back suspension provides support to the lower body part while the front suspension provides support to the upper arm.
Pros:
- It’s lightweight yet very strong
- Features an adjustable seat for comfort
- Enhances safety with its mechanical disk brakes
- Remains steady and reliable through all terrains
- It comes with an attractive and outstanding design
Cons:
- Time-consuming assembly
Our Final Verdict
The Merax Finiss Mountain Bike is actually one of the best choices if you’re looking for an affordable mountain bicycle! It is considerably lightweight, and it comes with a powerful disc braking system. With its sporty-looking set of wheels, this bike is sure to leave heads turning.
Diamondback Bicycles Sorrento Hard Tail Complete Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- 21 gear system
- All-terrain tires
- Fully adjustable frame
- Sturdy aluminum frame
- Sturdy aluminum alloy rims
- Front and rear brake system
- Choice of Different sizes from small to extra large
Features:
Suspension System
The Diamondback features an adjustable suspension system that lets its users adjust the stiffness of the suspension depending on the terrain. If you are travelling on a rugged terrain, you should adjust the suspension to its softest setting for a smooth ride.
Conversely, if you’re on a smooth road, a hard suspension setting would be ideal. However, unlike the majority of other bikes in this segment, the Diamondback only features a front suspension system.
Gearing And Braking System
The Diamondback mountain bike is fitted with a 21-gear system from Shimano that features a three-ring front coupled with a seven-ring back. When it comes to the braking system, the brakes grip well. But most importantly, they are smooth and stable when braking at high speeds.
Ride Quality
A truly remarkable thing about the Diamondback is that every aspect of the bike works in unison to provide a smooth ride quality. From the brakes and the gears to the wheels and suspension, this mountain bike has been optimized for comfort. You can also install an aftermarket seat and handlebars at affordable rates to enhance the comfort level further.
Pros:
- Smooth ride
- Excellent Durability
- Beautiful and stylish
- High quality materials
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Assembly and adjusting can be a pain if you are not a DIY or familiar with the process
Here’s Our Final Verdict
When it comes to quality, reliability, durability, and price, the Diamondback is excellent, just like many other mountain bikes on the market. However, the one aspect that truly stands out with this bike is its ride quality. If you love taking your bike out on a ride, you will enjoy the smoothness offered while cycling.
Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- Rear V-break system
- 24-speed gear system
- Fully adjustable seat
- Dual suspension system
- Front brake disc system
- Full aluminum frame and rims
Features:
Build Quality
What are the initial thoughts about the build quality of the Schwinn Protocol? Well, the full aluminum frame and rims make this mountain bike surprisingly lightweight. The lightweight nature of the Schwinn Protocol is a positive for cyclists especially considering it does not take away the rigidity and durability qualities of the bike.
Braking System
Nothing gives cyclists more confidence than good brakes that they can rely on to stop them whenever the need arises. That is why for brakes, the Schwinn Protocol has been fitted with a Promax disc brake system at the front and a traditional V-brake system at the rear. When combined, they deliver a linear stopping motion for enhanced stability.
Gearing System
The Schwinn Protocol is fitted with a 24-speed, top of the line Shimano gear system. That gear system is further fitted with EZ fire shifters at the front and an Altus rear derailleur. Combined, the three gear components work in tandem to produce smooth shifts irrespective of the terrain.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable shifters
- Lightweight in nature
- Adjustable to fit any body height and size
- Dual suspension ensures a smooth, comfortable ride
Cons:
- For its price, it does not come with tools to assemble it
Here’ Our Final Verdict
Our final take is that the Schwinn Protocol gives you all the entreaties you could ever need from a mountain bike. It is lightweight, sturdy, durable, capable and rides smoothly. That said, you will get the best out of this bike in single tracks or narrow twisty roads.
GMC Topkick Dual Suspension Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- 21-speed gear system
- Strong aluminum frame
- Dual suspension system
- High-flange alloy hubs
- Floating beam suspension
- Front and rear brake discs
- V-shape aluminum rim profile
Features:
Gear System
The gear system of the GMC Topkick is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. It features a 21-speed gear system with a TZ-30GS rear derailleur from Shimano and a micro-shift push shifter for smooth gear changes.
Design & Suspension System
It is impossible to talk about the GMC Topkick without describing its suspension system and how it affects the design of the bike. The front suspension is standard across MT bikes of this price point and is nothing to write home about.
However, the rear suspension is what stands out with the way it has been integrated with frame and the rear tire. It gives the bike a unique look which relays that some thought and effort was put into its design.
What’s more is that you would be wrong to assume that the suspension was all about design and nothing else. Both the rear and front suspension systems have been fitted with floating beam technology to supplement the spring/elastomer system on rugged terrain.
Build Quality
When it comes to build quality, the GMC Topkick oozes class. Its aluminum build frame and rims make this MT bike rigid but at the same time help it maintain its lightweight nature.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Sturdy and capable
- Great breaking system
- Neat, attractive design
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Highly adjustable for all body types
Cons:
- Pedals are a little flimsy
Here’s Our Final Verdict
The truth of the matter is that if you’re shopping for a mountain bike, you won’t find many impressive bikes as the GMC Topkick. It ticks all the right boxes and is one of the rare bikes that will stand the test of time. You can pass this bike down generations from your children and even to your grandchildren.
Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle
Product Specifications
- All terrain wheels
- Quick release front
- 21-speed gear system
- Dual suspension system
- Element suspension fork
- Front and rear disc brake
- Aluminum frame and alloy wheels
Features:
Wheels And Rims
For starters, the Mongoose Impasse comes with all-terrain tires which wrap around a double wall rim for enhanced rigidity. The tough nature of the wheels means the wheels can take a pounding from any terrain you throw at them. The spokes are made of stainless steel for durability.
Ride Quality
When it comes to riding quality, the Mongoose Impasse relies on a few components to ensure the cyclist gets maximum comfort. To start with, the bike is fitted with an adjustable seat and a dual suspension system that allows the user to tweak it according to the road ahead. To top it off, the gear system of the Mongoose Impasse is optimized for smoothness.
Braking System
If there’s one thing that’s hard to miss when you lay your eyes on this bike, it’s the massive brake discs. Unlike other bikes, the discs are fitted on both the front and the rear to provide maximum stopping power.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Affordable price
- Strong and durable
- Smooth, linear braking
- Smooth, comfortable ride
- Fully adjustable frame and suspension
- Compatible with aftermarket accessories
Cons:
To achieve a perfect first ride, you need to adjust both the gear and the brakes. This can be a problem if you are not familiar with bicycle mechanics.
Here’s Our Final Verdict
The Mongoose Impasse is at it bests when cycling down a road. So whether it is the dirt under your fingernails or the dust in your eyes and nose, the Mongoose Impasse provides a much-needed break from routine work. All in all, this MT bike captures the feeling of freedom and that in itself makes it worth your hard earned buck.
Diamondback Recoil 29er Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- 24-speed gear
- 29-inch wheels
- XCT suspension forks
- Full suspension setup
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Aluminum frame and rims
- Front and rear derailleurs
- Double-wall rims with aluminum spokes
Features:
Handling
When it comes to handling, the recoil 29er excels in every stage of riding. First and foremost, the bike is light so during take-off, it is perfectly stable. When in motion, the bike allows you to steer even at high speeds while the shocks absorb all the imperfections on the road. And finally, braking is smooth and linear.
Wheels And Rims
The wheels of this Recoil 29er are large. At 29-inches per wheel, these wheels are as functional as ever. Their large nature helps reduce the angle of attack, therefore, reducing rolling resistance by allowing the rider to roll over obstacles easier and faster.
Build Quality & Accessories
As evidenced by the price tag, every component of this bike is built from high-quality materials. This makes the Diamondback Recoil 29er durable and makes it feel premium when riding. What’s more, this MT bike is fitted with numerous ports that allow the addition of any bike accessories you can think of.
Pros:
- Light to carry
- Comfortable to ride
- Smooth gear changes
- Strong and rigid bike
- Effective brake performance
- Compatible with aftermarket accessories
Cons:
- Does not come with tools for assembly
Here’s Our Final Verdict
If you are a thrill seeker, then you are going to love the Diamondback Recoil 29er. Whether it is narrow, rocky trails, twisty roads, sandy beaches, or even wet, muddy terrain, this bike you will conquer nature. Other than that, the Diamondback Recoil 29er spots a simple yet functional look.
Diamondback Bicycles Recoil 29er Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- 29-inch size
- 21-speed gear
- Fully adjustable frame
- Aluminum frame and rims
- Front and rear suspension
- Front and rear disc brakes
Features:
Suspension System
Upon the first glance, you might think that the Recoil 29er is built with the same suspension type as competing brands, but that couldn’t be further from reality. This bike is fitted with SRT Suntour XCT suspension forks that deliver 10 cm of travel at the front and 4 inches of travel at the back.
Tires
This bike is at its best in an off-road setting largely thanks to its massive tires. The tires are rugged, grippy and can take a beating. From puddles of water to mud and even rocks, you can throw anything at these tires and they will take it graciously.
Handling
This bike allows you to tweak the suspension to suit the terrain you’re on. On smooth roads, you can drop both the front and rear suspension a couple of inches low to increase your center of gravity at high speeds. Conversely, you can raise the bike’s height in rough terrain for more comfort.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Rigid and tough
- Neat, stylish design
- Great suspension setup
- Great for hiking and off-roading
Cons:
- Does not come with a toolkit for assembly
Here’s Our Final Verdict
Sometimes, manufacturers are guilty of overselling their products. Many people have fallen for those promises only to realize later that they were false. However, that is not the case with Diamondback Recoil 29er. This bike is everything you need it to be. You can use it for leisure, commuting, exercise and much more.
Vilano 26-Inch Frame Ridge 2.0 Mountain Bike
Product Specifications
- 21-speed gear
- Alloy mag wheels
- 26-inch aluminum frame
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Suspension fork with lockout
- Double butted aluminum frame
Features:
Adjustability & Compatibility
It is truly the little things that matter when it comes to bikes. All the components of the Vilano Ridge 2.0 are fully adjustable to cater to all sizes. For those who love aftermarket accessories, the Ridge 2.0 has extensions that allow you to customize it to your liking.
Gearing And Braking Systems
This bike is fitted with a 21-speed gear system that helps propel the bike forward whether you are going uphill or downhill. If you are a speed-lover, you can rest assured the brakes will bring you to a complete stop before things turn ugly. Interestingly enough, both the gearing and braking system are from Shimano and so you know they are top of the line product that you can rely on.
Wheels
The alloy mag wheels of this bike make this bike suitable for urban use where there are smooth roads. If you are buying an MT bike to go for hikes and ride on untarmacked roads, you are better off looking for a different option or replacing the wheels. Alloy mag wheels are tough and can take the beating of rugged terrain but with a lot of discomfort to the cyclist.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Strong and durable
- Great stopping ability
- Compatible with MT bike accessories
- Perfect sized to suit all body types
- Extremely smooth and comfortable on smooth roads
Cons:
- The alloy mag wheels are pretty to look at but uncomfortable to ride on bumpy roads
Here’s Our Final Verdict
In this day and age, it is not strange to see bikes that are completely disoriented. Some even look like they’ve been put together by a 3-year old. You might think some components were added as an afterthought by the manufacturers. Well, not with this Frame Vilano. Everything is in the right place with this bike.
Justify Before Buying Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000
Nowadays choosing the best mountain is sometimes challenging, owing to the numerous types and models of it is available in the market.
In essence, there are thousands of mountain bikes that vary in terms of wheel size, suspension, gearing, brakes and more.
If you want to buy the best mountain bikes under 1000 dollars, then here is the list of guidelines on how to choose the best mountain bikes.
This guide will surely help you narrow down your choices by providing you with the useful information you need to be a conscious buyer with convincing expectations.
Look at The Mountain Bike’s Frame Materials
The frame of a mountain bike influences its strength, weight, price, durability as well as its ride quality.
Therefore, if you want to choose the right one, it is essential that you consider the frame material of the mountain bike. The commonest material used in its frames is the aluminum alloy; among others include carbon fiber, titanium, and steel.
Aluminum frames are very light and somehow expensive.
Steel frames are strong, relatively inexpensive and provide you with smooth riding, but heavy.
Made of titanium is very light and stronger but it is very expensive, but it is the high-tech mountain bikes.
Carbon fiber is most commonly used in fat bikes, cross-country, because of its low weight and strength.
However, it is expensive. Therefore, if you want to get the entry level road bike that you will meet your need, you should consider its frame materials.
Distance You Will Riding The Bike
The distance you will be riding going with your bike also matters if you want to get the right bike that will not disappoint and be able to have comfortable how to rides.
So, if you are planning to buy a bike that you will be using to cover short distance like going to a coffee shop, the consideration going for a one-speed cruiser and be able to save your money.
On the other hand, if you will be using your bike for cycling more than five miles then, a city mountain bike with fenders, racks, and integrated lights will be the best for more comfort and safety rides. Therefore, the distance you are going to cover with bike matters a lot.
Justify Mountain Bike’s Brakes
Nowadays, disc brakes have taken over rim brakes on all entry level. When you want to buy a beginner mountain bike, first you should consider its brakes.
A mountain bike that uses disc brakes has brake pads, which grips onto the rotor mounted on the wheel hub, and comes in two versions Hydraulic disc brakes and cable activated brakes.
A mountain bike with hydraulic disk brakes has strong braking with a less finger effort, as well as with a pad that adjusts itself to reduce the pad wear, so when you are looking for one with strong braking consider one with Hydraulic disc brakes or one with cable activated brakes.
However, one with rim brakes features pads, which grips on the wheel rims, the benefit of having a mountain bike with rim brakes is that you can easily observe wearing of the brake pad an replace the pads.
So, you should look at the brakes of your preferred bike and evaluate if it will meet your needs for you to get the best and safe mountain biking.
Justify Suspension
A mountain bike’s suspension is among the important factors you should consider when buying a good mountain bike.
A mountain bike can have front suspension also referred to as hardtails, or it can have both fronts, and rear suspension referred to as full suspension.
Front Suspension Mountain bikes feature only one shock; their frames are simpler as compared with the dual-suspension bike, meaning they are easy to maintain and clean and lighter.
While, mountain bikes with full suspension offer control, comfort, and speed that is much fun that people don’t concentrate on the weight it has.
So, if you want to experience more convenient rides without considering the bikes weight, then you should consider a mountain bike with full suspension over a front suspension.
Things To Consider Before Buying Best Mountain Bikes Under $1000
So what are the major considerations to take into account when buying a mountain bike? In my opinion, there are three major items to consider:
Consider The Size of The Mountain Bike
The frame and the wheel size of a mountain bike determine its size. Therefore, if you are planning to buy you should visit the store and test it with different sizes and choose one with the size that fits you before you purchase it.
A mountain bike with proper size fitting improves your confidence and handling to enable you to tackle challenging and technical rides no matter the terrain. Also, the wheel size and rims matter a lot.
Every mountain bike comes with remarkably reliable wheels designed to bear up the difficulties of riding off-road.
So if you are looking for a mountain bike that you will be riding off-road, you consider one with robust and long-lasting wheels and rims to enable you to enjoy your rides.
Consider The Mountain Bike’s Gears
The number of gears a mountain bike is calculated by multiplying the number of front chainrings by the number of sprockets on the cassette.
Nowadays mountain bikes are available from single gear to thirty or more gears when looking for the best bike you should consider the number of gears it has depending on your needs.
If you are looking for a bike that you will be riding on steep valleys, climbing mountains and on rough terrains, then one with more gears is the best choice that you should consider.
However, if you are looking for a mountain bike that you will be riding only on flat terrains, or you are a strong biker, you will have to consider a bike with fewer gears which will also make your bike light giving you easy rides.
It is also important to know that bike gearing can be modified after buying a bike, to fit your needs.
Frame Material
A bicycle frame is something that can last you a lifetime. Make sure that the mountain bike you are considering has a frame made out of the material you want. Figure out if you want steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, or another exotic material. Over time, you can change all the other parts around the frame to suit your needs.
Features
Figure out any specific features you want on your mountain bike. Write them down and refer to your list when shopping for your new bike. Most people use wheel size, number of gears, type of brakes, and suspension as their main shopping features. Figure out what you want ahead of time and be prepared.
Price
Price plays a key role in every buying decision. Whether you are shopping online or at a local store, you should have a certain maximum price in mind before you start shopping. You don’t want to end up spending more than you should have. This can result in buyer’s remorse and low satisfaction with your bike as a result. As always, try to maximize the number of features and benefits you receive for the price.
Final Thoughts
The technology of mountain bikes has come a long way since they were first introduced. Modern materials continue to push the boundaries of lightweight yet incredibly strong bicycle frames. Disc brake systems and suspension are now available on mountain bikes.
But you don’t have to spend $10,000 on a mountain bike for it to be a good one you can get best mountain bikes under 1000 dollars. The ten mountain bikes reviewed above are all great mountain bikes near or below the $1000 price point. Make your buying decision based on the frame you want, features required, and price.