2019 UNVEILED: 5 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500
Is it possible to find a high-quality, inexpensive mountain bike?
Most beginners ask if it is possible to get a high-quality mountain bike without spending much.
The simple answer to this question is, YES!
You can actually get an inexpensive mountain bike without compromising on quality.
Mountain biking can be a dangerous but exhilarating experience so quality and safety should be your top priorities.
Experts actually recommend that you start with a decent, inexpensive mountain bike to ease your way into the sport.
Ideally, a high-quality mountain bike should have a strong frame, a long-lasting suspension, as well as strong wheels that can roll smoothly on rough surfaces.
If you conduct thorough research, you will realize there are many mountain bikes that fit the bill.
Don’t worry about the price
Believe it or not, mountain bikes can be inexpensive and of great quality. To put a number on it, you can actually get a decent bike with the $500 price range.
High-end mountain bikes and more affordable mountain bikes usually share the same materials, but they differ in weight.
Most mountain bikes under 500 are usually heavier, compared to those that cost above $2000.
Don’t worry, those $2,000 bikes are for when you are absolutely rocking those mountain trails and ready to purchase one with full-fledged components.
What factors of a mountain bike should beginners consider?
This doesn’t have to be so. Below are important factors that will help you to select a bike that is of high quality to make your cycling experience enjoyable.
Check also: Great Starter Mountain Bike: Raleigh Mountain Bike M50
Wheel Size
Bigger wheels will give you more momentum and a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces.
Think of it this way: the bigger and wider your tires, the better they “grip” against the ground you are biking on.
However, keep in mind that big wheels can also add more weight to your bike, which may make pedaling more difficult.
The most common wheel size for mountain bikes is the 26-inch wheel. Today however many manufacturers are developing the 27.5-inch tires.
These wheels are easy to handle and offer excellent speed and acceleration.
Brake system
Mountain bike riding can be dangerous and thrilling at the same time.
You will, therefore, require fast- working strong brakes to prevent accidents and injuries.
You should always buy brakes that have bigger pads since they are very responsive
The best mountain bikes come with disc brakes or rim brakes.
Disc brakes have a strong stopping power during all weather conditions which makes them the best brakes for mountain bikes.
Rim brakes are also effective but may not work optimally in wet conditions.
Frame material
The frame material affects the bike’s weight, strength, and durability. Most affordable mountain bikes have aluminum alloy frames.
These frames are lighter, sturdy and long-lasting.
If you have the budget or get lucky, you can also check out other stronger but lighter bike frames that are made from titanium or carbon fibers and also considered foldable mountain bikes.
If you value the durability and strength of your frame, steel frames are your best bet but they can make your bike very heavy.
Suspension type
The suspension absorbs shocks generated from jumps and bumpy terrain.
The kind of suspension you choose will determine how comfortable your mountain bike will be when riding on rough terrain.
There are two main suspension types for mountain bikes namely, hardtail and full suspension.
The difference between hardtail mountain bikes and full suspension mountain bikes is that hardtail mountain bikes have a suspension fork located at the front.
While full suspension mountain bikes have front and rear suspension forks.
Hardtails require less maintenance, are usually more affordable, and are better on smoother trails.
The full suspension bikes, on the other hand, offer more speed and are suitable for technical terrains as they can help you endure through more extreme road conditions.
One of the biggest differences I saw between the high-end mountain bikes and affordable ones under $500 is the suspension system.
Most expensive bikes have a full suspension, whereas more affordable bikes are hardtail mountain bikes with only a front suspension.
It is, however, important to note that despite this difference, affordable mountain bikes have all the essential components that can protect you and make your cycling fun.
Now that you know some cycling vocabulary, it is time for the fun part: here are the best mountain bikes under 500 dollars!
Best Mountain Bikes Under $500
Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
It has an alloy crank for efficient gearing and the Shimano rear derailleur that offers a variety of gears essential when changing the terrain.
Wheel size
The Schwinn Protocol 1.0 mountain bike has the traditional 26-inch knobby mountain tires that are supported by strong alloy rims.
These small but knobby wheels are strong and can withstand impacts.
This gives the rider freedom to ride on difficult and technical courses without having to worry about deforming the wheels from collisions.
Brake system
This bike has a fantastic braking system. It combines both disk and rim brakes. At the front, it has disc brakes while the rear end has an alloy v-brake.
This combination provides you with all-condition crisp braking power.
Its braking system makes it one of the best mountain bikes under 500.
It provides more safety since it gives you more control of the bike while cycling.
Frame material
This Schwinn mountain bike has an aluminum alloy frame that gives the bike strength to withstand tough conditions.
Also, since it is made of aluminum, it is lightweight and easier to carry on your commute or to your car.
Suspension type
This is a full suspension mountain bike with a front suspension fork to absorb maximum shock from jumps.
The air rear shock also has a lockout to take bounce when climbing.
Customers love the rear shock as it can carry heavy weights with very minimal bounces while riding on rocks and gravel.
If you are looking for a smooth ride, consider this bike because it does have dual suspension and fits the budget.
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Merax Finiss 26″ Aluminum 21 Speed Mountain Bike
It provides you with an affordable but enjoyable way to experience mountain biking.
Wheel size
It also rides on the traditional 26-inch double wall aluminum rims wheels for a smooth ride.
Such tires cannot get deformed easily even when riding on rough surfaces covered by rocks.
Brake system
This model has an excellent braking system for a mountain bike under 500. It has both front and rear mechanical disc brakes.
Customers like these high-quality brakes as they guarantee riders safety and more control when cycling.
Frame material
The Merax Finiss is built using the 6061 heat treated Aluminum that offers extra strength.
This material is commonly used to manufacture high-end bikes.
Buying this mountain bike, therefore, provides you with a quality frame at an affordable price.
Suspension type
This bike comes with an 80mm coil fork that can absorb shocks and give smooth rides.
The 80mm fork works better with fatter tires, and it may not be ideal with the thin 1.95 inch tires that come with the bike.
This, however, should not be a major problem as you can easily upgrade to a 100mm air fork to get the best out of the thin tires.
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Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
You could ride it for fun or even join a local mountain bike competition, and it will serve you just right. Some of its standout features include;
Wheel size
It has 27.5-inch alloy wheels that are light and durable and you can ride on almost all terrain.
The wheels ensure they roll smoothly on surfaces and provide better acceleration.
It comes with wide knobby tires that give this mountain bike additional stability.
Brake system
This Schwinn model features a front and rear alloy linear pull brakes.
These brakes provide secure and robust stopping power and are a good fit for most affordable mountain bikes.
They are however not suitable for wet conditions as they can easily slip.
Frame material
The bike features a Schwinn mountain frame that is common with Schwinn mountain bike models.
This frame is made of steel. This material not only makes this mountain bike strong to support heavy weight limit but it also makes it durable.
Steel frames contribute to the low cost of this bike. Most customers complain that it adds some weight to the bike.
The extra weight makes it difficult to cycle uphill.
Suspension type
This model is a hardtail. It has a Schwinn suspension fork at the front that absorbs shocks to allow for a smooth ride on a steep trail.
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GMC Topkick Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
It is a versatile bike made for riders who want to cycle on tough terrain or light trails.
Here are some of the features that make this one of the best mountain bikes under 500;
Wheel size
The bike has 26-inch wheels with a quick release front wheel. This wheel can ride on almost all surfaces without being damaged.
You are therefore assured of very little maintenance after cycling for long miles on rough terrain.
Brake system
The best mountain bikes under 500 have quality brakes to prevent horrific crashes and accidents.
This bike doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its braking system. It has rear and front Promax disc brakes that gives efficient braking in all weather.
Frame material
Just like other best mountain bikes under 500, this mountain bike has an aluminum frame that makes it lightweight but very durable.
This ensures your bike stays intact to give you comfortable rides even on rough terrain.
Suspension type
This bike is constructed with a floating beam suspension to absorb shock when riding on rough surfaces.
Besides, it has a zoom suspension fork made with spring technique. This takes away all the shock to make your rides more comfortable and less tiring.
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Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Bike
The Mongoose Dolomite is made for riders who want to explore different terrains. Its bike frame is made to tolerate all kinds of jumps.
The 7-speed Shimano gear system ensures you can cycle uphill without any difficulties.
To check review of other mongoose mountain bikes, read this: My Honest Mongoose Mountain Bike Review
Wheel size
Most customers love the 26-inch diameter and 4-inch fat knobby tires that come with this bike.
These tires give you a comfortable riding experience on all surfaces be it on the sand, snow, or even on rocks.
You can also ride this bike throughout the year since you will not have to worry about seasons.
Brake system
This model has the best braking system for a mountain bike under $500. Its dual disk brakes provide strong stopping power to prevent accidents.
The rear and front disk brakes also give efficient braking in all weather conditions.
Frame material
The steel frame for the Mongoose Dolomite mountain bike makes the bike stable and durable.
This will ensure that you do not have to do regular maintenance even after riding for miles.
The steel frame, however, adds some extra weight to this bike which is not always good for a mountain bike.
Suspension type
The bike is a hardtail, which means it only has a suspension in the front fork.
It has pretty good shock absorption abilities and will protect you from feeling the worst of rocky trails.
The wide wheels compensate for the lack of a rear shock as they offer a smooth ride on rough surfaces.
Interested to buy Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike? Check out this Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike Review first.
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Conclusion
Choosing an affordable mountain bike with high-quality features is easier than you think.
You just need to ask the right questions, know what to look for, and listen to your instinct when you try it out.
The factors discussed above will help you to select a good quality mountain bike to enhance your cycling experience.
I am sure you will get a bike that perfectly fits your cycling needs.
If you are a woman who would like to explore mountain bikes, we have a few recommendations for you. Check this: With Your Comfort in Mind: Our Best Women Mountain Bikes
For more affordable mountain bikes, check this: Attention Challenge-Lovers: Best Single Speed Mountain Bikes
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