The Best Mountain Bikes For Beginners In 2023: 10 Outstanding Picks

You’re ready to hit the trails and experience the thrill of mountain biking, but where do you start? With so many options available, choosing the right bike can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the 10 best mountain bikes for beginners in 2023. Whether you’re looking for a hardtail or full suspension or 27.5 or 29-inch wheels, we have you covered with various options to suit different terrains and riding styles.

But what should you look for when buying a mountain bike? It’s important to consider factors such as frame material, suspension, wheel size, and gearing. Our guide breaks down the jargon and highlights key features to look for, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

We want to help you find the perfect bike that will perform well and last for years. So, let’s explore the world of mountain biking and find your perfect match. Get ready to experience the freedom and adrenaline of hitting the trails on your brand-new mountain bike.

Our Top 3 Favourite

Best Overall

Schwinn Traxion

The Schwinn Traxion is a budget-friendly option with a lightweight aluminum frame.

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Editor’s choice

Hiland Mountain Bike

Hiland Mountain Bike is easy to assemble and comes with free pedals.

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Best Value

Viribus Mountain Bike

This bike is perfect for athletes and weekend cycling enthusiasts alike.

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10 Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners

In search of the best mountain bike for beginners. Take a look at these:

• Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike
• Hiland Mountain Bike
• Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike
• GRAVITY FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike
• Mongoose Impasse Full Dual-Suspension Mens Mountain Bike
• Viribus Full Suspension Mountain Bike
• Fat Tire Mountain Bike
• ROYCE UNION Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike
• Schwinn Fastback Tourney AL Adult Performance Road Bike
• Eastern Bikes Alpaka 29’ Mountain Bike

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These outstanding picks offer high-quality components, durable frames, and comfortable rides at affordable prices.

1. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike

Best Overall

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The Schwinn Traxion is a budget-friendly option with a lightweight aluminum frame and 24-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters, making it a versatile choice for riders of different skill levels.

The front suspension fork with 100mm of travel and the 2.25-inch wide knobby tires provide a comfortable ride and excellent traction on different terrains. The Traxion also features mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power and a 3-piece alloy crank for smooth pedaling.

The Schwinn Traxion is a great entry-level mountain bike that provides a smooth and efficient ride, making it a perfect fit for beginners.

It’s also a versatile choice for experienced riders who want a budget-friendly option for casual riding or trail exploring. The bike is easy to assemble and comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that you’re investing in a durable and long-lasting bike.

2. Hiland Mountain Bike

Editor’s choice

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Product Specs:

• Aluminum frame
• 26-inch wheels
• Shimano 21 Speeds Drivetrain
• Disc-Brake Bike
• Suitable for men and women
• Good performance suspension fork
• Special spoke design for wind resistance and easy handling
• Dual disc brakes
• 85% pre-assembled
• Quick-release front wheel and saddle
• 17-inch frame size
• Limited lifetime warranty

Given its impressive features and design, you might consider the Hiland Mountain Bike a suitable option. The aluminum frame and Shimano 21 Speeds Drivetrain makes for a sturdy and reliable ride, while the dual disc brakes provide ample stopping power even in wet conditions.

The good performance suspension fork and specialized spoke design make it easy to maneuver on different terrains, whether riding on pavement, gravel, or dirt.

In addition to its technical features, the Hiland Mountain Bike is easy to assemble and comes with free pedals and assembly tools. Its 17-inch frame size is ideal for riders between 5’ and 6’, and the quick-release front wheel and saddle make it easy to transport.

While the front derailleur and shifters may need replacement, and the handlebars and seat may need upgrading, the Hiland Mountain Bike is a great option for beginner riders looking for a high-quality, versatile mountain bike.

3. Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike

Best For Girls

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The Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike is a great choice if you’re searching for a reliable and versatile mountain bike for your young rider.

It features an aluminum frame, 21-speed drivetrain, and suspension fork for a smoother ride. This bike is designed for girls and has a lavender color scheme that will appeal to young riders. Its 24-inch wheels suit riders ages 8 and up or those between 48 and 56 inches tall.

The Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike has a dual suspension system that provides comfort and performance on rough terrain. The bike also has SRAM twist shifters that make it easy to change gears and a Shimano rear derailleur for all types of riding.

The linear-pull brakes provide strong braking power, while the alloy rims make the bike lightweight and durable. The 3-piece crank ensures reliable shifting, and the bike comes with a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.

4. GRAVITY FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Best For Beginners

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Looking for a versatile and durable dual-suspension mountain bike that can handle rough terrain? Check out the Gravity FSX 1.0. This mountain bike has a strong aluminum frame that withstands the toughest trails.

You can adjust the front and rear suspension to match your riding style and terrain. Plus, the quick-release wheels – front and rear – make it easy to customize your bike to your needs.

The Gravity FSX 1.0 also features easy-to-use Shimano shifters that allow you to change gears smoothly and efficiently. It comes with disc brakes in the front and rear, providing you with the stopping power you need to stay safe on the trails.

The double wall rims are strong and light, making it easy to maneuver and control your bike. With a limited lifetime warranty, you can rest assured that this bike is built to last.

5. Mongoose Impasse Full Dual-Suspension Men Mountain Bike

Great for Beginners

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The Mongoose Impasse is a full dual-suspension mountain bike perfect for riders who want stability and control on rough terrain. With its lightweight aluminum frame and internal cable routing, this bike is designed to handle the toughest trails.

The 27.5-inch wheels and 21-speed drivetrain with trigger shifter provide a smooth and efficient ride, while the front and rear mechanical disc brakes offer reliable stopping power. The extra-large tires provide extra grip and stability, making navigating challenging terrain easier.

The Mongoose Impasse comes partially assembled and may require adjustments, but once it’s set up, you’ll be ready to take on any trail. The matte black color and sleek design make it a stylish choice for any rider, while the limited 5-year warranty on the frame and 1-year limited warranty on parts provide peace of mind.

The Mongoose Impasse is great for beginners who want a reliable and durable mountain bike.

6. Viribus Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Best For Adults

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You’ll love the Viribus Full Suspension Mountain Bike, with its premium aluminum build, dual suspension, and Shimano 21-speed derailleur that will have you flying through straightaways and conquering steep climbs. This bike is perfect for serious athletes and weekend cycling enthusiasts alike.

The bike features an adjustable wide seat, built-in scales for custom comfort, micro-grip thumb shifters for speed or torque control, and handles with bar ends for extra leverage and comfort.

The full suspension with front fork shock, rear single pivot suspension, and dual mechanical disc brakes give you full control during steep descents. The included pair of cycling gloves, bell, and waterproof headlight provide ride protection and visibility.

The Viribus Full Suspension Mountain Bike is easy to assemble, with 85% preinstalled parts and included tools. The tires are excellent for riding on various terrains, and the Shimano 21-speed is well-tuned and effective.

The front shock is perfect, and the frame and hardware seem robust. Despite its sturdy build, the bike does not feel heavy when riding, thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame.

7. Fat Tire Mountain Bike

Best Unisex

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If you’re searching for a rugged and durable bike that can tackle any terrain, the Fat Tire Mountain Bike is the perfect choice for the adventurer in you.

With its high-tensile carbon steel frame, dual disc brakes, and shock-absorbing front forks, this bike is designed to provide the ultimate riding experience, whether cruising through the city or blazing through rough mountain trails.

Its 26-inch light steel thickened tires offer five times the wear resistance of ordinary bicycle tires, while the 21-speed and 27-speed miniature rear derailleur make climbing easier than ever before.

The adjustable and comfortable saddle with simple height adjustment ensures a comfortable ride. In contrast, the double disc brake system with mechanical disc brakes ensures your safety even under high speed and low terrain.

With a maximum load-bearing capacity of 200 kg, this unisex-adult mountain bike is ideal for riders of all shapes and sizes. Its combination of high carbon steel mountain bike frame and excellent welding technology ensures durability and stability.

In contrast, the all-terrain wide knob mountain tires on lightweight and durable alloy wheels provide added stability. The Fat Tire Mountain Bike is perfect for high mountains, wastelands, roads, trails, cities, beaches, or snow.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this bike will impress with its outstanding features and performance.

8. ROYCE UNION Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike

Best For Beginners

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Looking for a versatile and reliable mountain bike? Check out the ROYCE UNION Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike. This bike is perfect for beginners looking for a bike that can handle all terrain. With its high-quality construction, you can be sure that this bike is built to last.

Assembly is required, but with some adjustments needed before riding, you can easily make this bike comfortable for your riding style.

One of the great things about the ROYCE UNION Speed All-Terrain Mountain Bike is its front suspension which will help absorb any bumps or shocks you might encounter on the trail.

This bike is also equipped with a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain that makes it easy to shift gears and tackle any terrain you might encounter. The tires are designed to provide exceptional traction, so you can feel confident riding on any surface.

9. Schwinn Fastback Tourney AL Adult Performance Road Bike

Best For Adults

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Get ready to take your road cycling to the next level with the Schwinn Fastback Tourney AL Adult Performance Road Bike. This bike is designed for beginner to intermediate riders who want to experience expert-level riding.

The bike offers a responsive, lightweight ride equipped with a Schwinn road-tuned N LITENED GOLD triple-butted aluminum road frame and fork.

The performance road geometry allows you to ride with speed and agility, while the Shimano AO70 14-speed STI shift/brake levers with Shimano front and rear derailleurs make shifting gears smooth and easy.

The Promax aluminum caliper brakes provide precision stopping power, and the Alex X2200 double-wall rims with Schwinn aluminum road hubs ensure a durable and reliable ride.

The 700c wheel size fits adult riders 54 to 62 in height, and the Schwinn sport saddle and performance bar tape provide comfort for long rides. With a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike, you can trust that this bike will be a reliable companion for all your road cycling adventures.

10. Eastern Bikes Alpaka 29″ Mountain Bike

Best For Beginners

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Let’s focus on a mountain bike perfect for beginners who want to tackle rugged trails easily. The Eastern Bikes Alpaka 29 Mountain Bike is a reliable choice, thanks to its ultra-light hydroformed 6061 aluminum frame and RST suspension fork with 100mm travel.

With 9 speeds, sealed bearing front and rear hubs, and 29x 2.2 Kenda tires, this bike can handle any terrain you throw at it. And with a 5-year warranty on the frame and 12 months on all other parts, you can trust that this bike is built to last.

However, it’s important to note that some customers have had negative experiences with this bike. The generic assembly instructions can be confusing and unhelpful, and some riders have reported issues with loose cranks, failed brakes, and derailleur problems.

Despite these issues, many riders have found the Eastern Bikes Alpaka 29 to be a great value for the money and an excellent choice for beginners who want to get into mountain biking.

Factors to Consider When Buying Mountain Bikes For Beginners

When buying a mountain bike as a beginner, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, your budget is important as it will determine the level of components and frame material you can afford.

Secondly, you need to consider the purpose of the bike, whether it’s for cross-country, downhill or trail riding.

Thirdly, the wheel size and suspension type will greatly affect your riding experience, with options ranging from hardtail to full suspension.

Finally, the fit and comfort of the bike are crucial, with considerations such as size, geometry, and saddle being important to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.

1. Budget

Looking for a great mountain bike without breaking the bank? You don’t have to spend a fortune to start your mountain biking journey. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available that offer high-quality components, durable construction, and excellent performance.

These beginner mountain bikes are perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of off-road cycling without making a significant investment. When shopping for a budget-friendly mountain bike, consider the most important features, such as wheel size, suspension, and groupset.

Look for bikes that offer a balance of affordability and quality, and don’t be afraid to do your research. You will surely find the perfect beginner mountain bike with many outstanding options for your needs and budget.

Now, let’s move on to the purpose of the bike and how it affects your choice.

2. Purpose of the bike (cross-country, downhill, trail riding)

If you’re wondering which type of mountain bike to choose, it’s important to consider the purpose of the bike – whether it’s for cross-country, downhill, or trail riding – to make the best decision for your needs. Each type of riding has unique demands, and choosing the right bike can make a huge difference in your overall experience.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when deciding on the purpose of your bike:

• Cross-country riding requires speed and endurance and a lightweight and efficient bike.
• Downhill riding is focused on steep descents and jumps, requiring a bike with a suspension system to handle the impact.
• Trail riding combines cross-country and downhill, focusing on technical terrain and varied conditions.
• Your own skill level and riding goals will also play a role in determining the best type of bike for you.

Ultimately, the purpose of your bike will inform many of your other choices, from frame material to wheel size to components. Remember your intended riding style as you search for the perfect beginner mountain bike.

Let’s move on to the next important consideration: frame material.

3. Frame material (aluminum, carbon fiber, steel)

Now it’s time to discuss frame material – a crucial factor in choosing your mountain bike. Regarding frame material, there are three main options: aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel.

Aluminum frames are the most popular choice for beginner mountain bikes due to their affordability and durability. They’re lightweight and stiff, which makes them ideal for cross-country riding. However, they can be harsh on rough terrain and less comfortable than other materials.

Carbon fiber frames are the lightest and strongest of the three options but are also the most expensive. They offer a comfortable ride and are ideal for trail and cross-country riding. They absorb vibrations and bumps on the trail, making them a popular choice for longer rides.

Steel frames are the most comfortable, durable, and affordable option. They provide a smooth ride on rough terrain and are ideal for downhill riding. However, they’re heavy and not as stiff as aluminum or carbon fiber frames.

Regarding frame material, it’s important to consider your riding style and budget. Each material has pros and cons, and deciding which suits your needs best is up to you.

Now let’s discuss wheel size and its impact on your ride.

4. Wheel size (26″, 27.5″, 29″)

Let’s dive into wheel size and how it can impact your mountain biking experience. When it comes to mountain biking, wheel size is an important factor.

The most common sizes are 26 inches, 27.5 inches, and 29 inches. The larger the wheel size, the smoother the ride will be on bumpy terrain.

This is because larger wheels have more tire contact with the ground, providing more traction. However, the downside is that larger wheels may not be as elegant for cornering on technical singletrack.

For beginners, 27.5-inch and 29-inch wheels are the best choice. They offer a good compromise between smoothness and agility, making them suitable for different terrains.

The choice of wheel size should also be based on personal height and size. It’s important to note that larger wheels are better for taller riders than smaller ones for shorter riders.

Now let’s move on to the next important factor: suspension type.

5. Suspension type (hardtail, full suspension)

The suspension type is a crucial factor when choosing a bike, with hardtails being popular for entry-level riders due to their affordability and durability.

Hardtail bikes have a suspension fork in the front but no suspension in the rear. This makes them lighter, more efficient, and easier to maintain. They are also less expensive than full-suspension bikes, making them ideal for beginners who want to mountain bike without breaking the bank.

However, full-suspension bikes can provide a more comfortable ride on rough terrain, as they have front and rear suspension. This makes them a better choice for more technical trails or riders who want to tackle more challenging terrain.

Full-suspension bikes are also more forgiving, allowing riders to push themselves further and ride faster. While they are more expensive than hardtails, they can be a worthwhile investment for riders who plan on taking their mountain biking to the next level.

Now, let’s look at the components of a good beginner mountain bike, including brakes, drivetrain, and tires.

6. Components (brakes, drivetrain, tires)

When considering a beginner mountain bike, it’s important to pay attention to the components that make up the bike.

The brakes, drivetrain, and tires are essential parts that can affect the overall performance and safety of the ride.

Hydraulic disc brakes are preferred over mechanical ones as they offer more stopping power and better modulation, which is crucial on steep and technical terrain.

A reliable drivetrain system, such as Shimano Deore or microSHIFT Advent, ensures smooth gear changes and efficient power transfer.

Additionally, tires with good traction and durability are necessary for a comfortable and secure ride on different types of terrain.

A well-equipped bike with quality components ensures a safe and reliable ride and enhances the overall mountain biking experience.

However, the bike’s fit and comfort are equally important factors.

The size and geometry of the bike should match the rider’s height and riding style to achieve optimal performance and comfort.

The saddle should also be comfortable and supportive, as it is the main point of contact between the rider and the bike.

7. Fit and comfort (size, geometry, saddle)

Get ready to find your perfect ride! It’s all about you and your comfort as we dive into the important factors of fit and geometry when choosing a mountain bike. Here are three key points to keep in mind:

• Size matters: The right size bike is crucial for a comfortable ride. Bikes come in different frame sizes, so choose one that fits your height and body type. A bike that’s too small or big can cause discomfort, affect your performance, and even lead to injuries.
• Geometry is important: The geometry of a bike affects how it feels and handles on the trail. Different bikes have different geometries, so consider your riding style and preferences. For example, a bike with a slacker head angle and longer reach is more stable at high speeds, while a bike with a steeper head angle and shorter reach is more agile and responsive.
• Saddle comfort is key: A comfortable saddle can make all the difference in a long ride. Look for a saddle that fits your anatomy and provides adequate cushioning. Adjusting the saddle height and angle to your liking is also important, affecting your pedaling efficiency and comfort.

Considering these factors, you can find a bike that fits you like a glove and allows you to enjoy the trails to the fullest. Remember, a comfortable and well-fitting bike is the foundation of a great mountain biking experience!

Frequently Asked Questions