20 best mountain bikes

An entry-level cross-country bike with moderate cross-country performance. It is recommended for purchase to those who are just starting to learn the basics of movement on mountainous terrain and off-road, without pretending to competitive disciplines. The drivetrain equipment consists of entry-level Shimano derailleurs and STG sidecars – a body kit that can’t survive frequent off-road trips. The brakes are a little more serious, but also not sharpened for aggressive operation.

At first glance, it seems that the price of the Stinger Element D 26 is somewhat overpriced: consumers classify the model as ordinary and more often than not want to notice minor faults in it. Of course, all this can be solved with custom upgrades, but additional financial injections are not something you want to get from a mountain bike. The 2019 model received a new type of bearing mounting - aheadset or, otherwise, threadless, which is considered more durable than threaded ones. The brakes have also changed - instead of vibraks, the developers have installed more modern, disc brakes. The wheels have become much stronger due to the double rims. It seems that the company took into account the wishes and heeded the criticism, finalizing the previous design and thereby providing it with much better technical characteristics, however, without increasing the price by about 1000 rubles. did not work out.

Cheerful bike races in the yard, fun rides in the park and in the countryside, exciting trips with parents on easy off-road - what kind of adventures become available to a child who has become the proud owner of a real mountain bike! We are sure that the best way to introduce your child to sports, as soon as he is 7 years old, is to gift a Shark bike from Novatrack. Why this particular model? Firstly, it looks unrealistically cool, whether in blue-green or white-red colors, so the child will definitely be proud of it. Secondly, this is a two-suspension bike, that is, it is provided with depreciation on both wheels, which means that it will be much easier to control it on bumps.

The next plus is that 20-inch wheels with adjustable handlebar and saddle height give a tangible service life of the bike, taking into account the rapid growth of its owner: you don’t have to think about a new bike until at least 10 years old. Pleased with the complete package: 6 speeds, 2 brakes, good tires, plastic fenders and protection of the switching mechanism. All elements work flawlessly, so they do not complain about the quality in the reviews. The only thing you should pay attention to before buying is 14 kg of weight, and if there is no lift, then parents are also provided with physical activity.

In the 70s, millions of Soviet boys dreamed of Desna bicycles, and the mention of this brand still evokes a feeling of slight nostalgia.With the purchase of the Zhukovsky plant by Velomotors, its former glory returned to it, with the only difference being that bikes began to be produced by modern robots from pipe-roll of their own production and painted with liquid enamels on production lines unique for Russian companies. Still remaining in the budget segment, the company was able to offer several dozen successful bike models, including Desna 2610 V.

For a very modest amount, the buyer receives not some kind of “ashanbike”, but a functional mountain bike with an exhaustive package, which does not need to be upgraded for ordinary trips. A classic steel triangle frame, perfectly welded and painted in 3 layers, cables laid inside, a threadless steering column, a cartridge bottom bracket, tires with an increased width - all the prerequisites for trouble-free and long-term operation are provided. You can find fault with the quality of the brake rotors, you can blame the lack of fenders and the rigidity of the seat, but the fact that the bike is inexpensive, reliable and able to serve its owner faithfully for many seasons is an indisputable fact.

Despite a certain amount of criticism, the bicycles of the Russian Forward brand are popular, especially the Sporting model, which received new 27.5 wheels in 2019. parts can be purchased from previous collections with good discounts.But even in the basic package, a bike at this price leaves a pleasant impression: it has a catchy design, quite light, despite the fact that the frame is steel, not aluminum, it comes almost fully assembled - you only need to put the steering wheel and wheel on the eccentric and fasten the pedals.

One of the main motives for buying this particular bike is quite solid equipment and non-poor equipment for the budget category. The company does not allow any naming: MicroSHIFT shifters (this brand is called the Shimano killer, its products are used by such cycling giants as Giant and Cannondale), Tourney switches (not the best option for real mountain bikes, but quite reliable for city trips), KMC chain and etc. Of the minuses, users mention a rather unpretentious hitch 1.0 and a regular saddle, although comfortable, but the quality of the upholstery is below average.

Another representative of mountain bike transport for the "Catalians" who do not apply for participation in the Tour of Switzerland in the Alps, but are happy to open new routes in their native lands.Park, forest, soil, roadway, snow and even ice - thanks to studded rubber with an aggressive tread, Stealth tolerates all types of roads well, despite the fact that not all attachments belong to well-known brands. For example, although Nutt hydraulic brakes are made by a Chinese brand, they decelerate smoothly, without pressing all the way.

The manufacturer supplied front and rear derailleurs of a very decent level - Shimano Altus FD-M310 and Acera RD-M360, and the bike is delivered to the buyer with all the necessary settings, and they switch like clockwork. In general, the device turned out to be universal - for business trips and “rides” it is quite suitable and durable. It would have been a little cheaper, and the kit would have included such necessary little things as keys and wings, it would have taken the first positions in the rating.

With the popularity of the Giant Revel 2 mountain bike, perhaps the most budget models of simple city bikes can argue. Where this demand came from is unknown. Characteristically, this is a rather modest touring bike, designed more for beginners than for amateurs or professional athletes. But in the conditions of driving around the city, it turns into a comfort-class mountain bike. In particular, many users note smooth running, fast acceleration and ease of control even at high speeds. The only real downside is the developers' unfortunate assumption that since the 2013 model, the Shimano Alivio rear shed has been replaced with a Shimano Tourney.

Advantages:

• construction weight 14 kilograms;
• good handling;
• great design;
• fast speed up.

Flaws:

• an annoying replacement for a good rear derailleur with a less-than-great one.

The Cayman line is available in 4 sizes and 4 color options and serves the main idea: to stay in the budget category, but at the same time provide the proper level of comfort and reliability on the trip. The model is completed on the basis of a strong and rigid frame made of high-alloy steel and includes an 18-speed transmission from Shimano components, an STG suspension spring-elastomer fork with a stroke of 50 mm, wheels on double aluminum rims from Felgebeiter. In order not to list all the elements, we characterize them as follows: a good entry level.

Let's be honest, this bike is not suitable for splurge - this is not a trotter for racing, but rather a workhorse for comfortable movement to the country house, to the office and home. However, the model is quite suitable for a novice cyclist to master the first thousand kilometers over small bumps, and then, most likely, he will be visited by the thought of an upgrade. If, however, you do not demand the impossible from the bike, driving through mountainous areas, it will faithfully, in rain and snow, work out every penny spent.

Merida is one of those companies that guarantee the excellent quality of even the most budget models, including Matts 6.15-MD. Its frame is made of strong aluminum alloy, which reduces the weight of the bike to 14.6 kg.The Suntour XCT suspension fork is capable of handling moderate terrain, while the Jake J8 disc brakes provide short stopping distances, are easy to use and require no regular adjustments.

The 24-speed transmission system also deserves commendation, which, judging by the components, lasts long enough for the model to get bored with its owner. If this happens, don't rush to get rid of it - a completely new trail experience is provided by replacing the complete fork with an air fork. In general, the model turned out to be quite universal - it suits both beginners and more advanced bikers who plan to upgrade it later.

The 930th model appeared on the market back in 2014 with a very budget price tag of 14 thousand rubles. But in 2016, it soared to almost 40 thousand, and with all the advantages of the niner from Stealth, there were fewer hunters to buy it. Now the "Navigator-930" can be acquired, having stocked up with about 25 thousand, and this price is recognized as reasonable by both potential buyers and owners of the device for several years.They love being able to change to 29", get to 60 km/h at 3-10, use the hydraulic brakes after 26" and V-brake it feels different.

The masculine-geometry aluminum frame is welded securely to withstand road obstacles for a long time without cracking or fatigue. Mounted supplied from "Shimano", a series of "Tournay". Suspension fork SUNTOUR XCT (stroke from 100 to 150 mm) and an ergonomic saddle allows you to ride on small potholes without harm to the body. If you compare the price of a domestic mountain bike with a foreign-made analogue with the same technical characteristics and equipment, buying a Stealth will be much more profitable.

Merida Big.Nine 40-D can be safely categorized as a sport mountain bike. The sport-grade oil-spring fork provides up to 100 millimeters of travel, which is acceptable even for difficult off-road terrain. Its resource without additional adjustments is enough for three thousand kilometers, after which it becomes much tougher. Despite how calmly the bike takes off-road, it passes the mud test just disgustingly. After a series of such rentals, one can expect a deterioration in the general condition and driving performance. In general, for such a build, the price of the bike looks slightly overpriced.

Advantages:

• good sports bike
• comfort when traveling on dry off-road;
• 27 speeds;
• fork pitch of 100 millimeters.

Flaws:

• requires immediate maintenance after a "mud test";
• high price.

The German company "Cube" produces a huge range of bicycles, the most popular of which is the AIM Pro model with 29-inch wheels. Professionals refer it to the initial amateur class, but recognize that its capabilities abound for the development of speed indicators and maintaining good physical shape in cycling. The mountain bike is mounted on an aluminum frame with internal cable routing, equipped with an updated version of Tektro sports hydraulic brakes, an entry-level 24-speed Shimano transmission, a Suntour shock absorber with up to 100 mm travel.

The bike easily overcomes climbs and descents, provides perfect pedaling on any terrain, at the same time good rolling and impeccable grip due to high-quality Schwalbe brand tires. The manufacturer also took care of the comfort of the rider, offering the Cube Active 1.1 sports saddle in stock. It is filled with Flex Foam, a flexible structural foam that easily takes the desired shape, and the coating is made of waterproof synthetic material that provides proper durability. The steel frame with printed adjustment scale makes it easy to install the saddle.

Specialized is the undisputed leader of the bicycle market, famous for its constant desire for development.This is practically the only company that develops and introduces new materials, designs and technologies into production. Moreover, the company has created many professional mountain teams that not only advertise the brand, but also constantly test its products and contribute to its improvement. Spesh was the first to notice the benefits of Twinliners and has made great strides in their improvement, expressed in the latest 2019 Chisel model.

The Comp version is a thoroughbred mountain bike, the little brother of the fastest bike in the world Epic HT, but devoid of the extreme factor, and therefore completely suitable for out-of-the-way country walks. The mountain bike inherited the frame geometry from its “kindred”, which is made of aluminum, not carbon, while the patented D'Aluisio Smartweld welding technology provides amazing strength and rigidity with minimal weight - the frame in size M weighs 1.35 kg, and the entire bike assembly - a little over 11 kg. Outboards are well chosen: RockShox Judy Solo Air fork, Deore MT500 hydraulic disc brakes, rims with an internal width of 25 mm, Gripton tires. The result is a vehicle that handles beautifully, predictable at speed, stable on descents, and definitely worth the money.

The fact that the model is female, in addition to the name, is suggested by the configuration of the frame. Its upper tube is somewhat underestimated, which makes the whole structure much more convenient and safer. In other aspects, a mountain bike is no different from a man’s bike: it has a bright sporty look, modern equipment (shock absorber, multi-speed gear system, rim brakes), as well as the ability to replace and upgrade it if desired.

Despite the cheapness, there are no no name components in the design, and the indicated trademarks, although Chinese, are quite popular and are often used on bicycles of the same class. According to users, the quality of the model is acceptable, you can only complain about the complexity of the assembly, and even then in the absence of little experience and a set of keys. And if you consider that almost all the necessary accessories like reflectors and wings come with ALTAIR in the box, then the claims are completely removed.

STELS Miss 6000 V 26 is the simplest and at the same time the most popular women's bike. It was created exclusively for cycling around the city and light off-road. The set of speed is low, as well as its maximum value. The overall build quality is acceptable, but without any frills.Sheds from Shimano work properly, but after some time any of the switches may fail, and this, alas, is not a one-time case.

Advantages:

• pleasant appearance;
• comfort during movement;
• good handling;
• low cost.

Flaws:

• heavy (14.8 kilograms);
• not very good quality awnings.

According to popular women's magazines, the best way to keep yourself in good shape is to ride your bike in the park more often at a fast pace. Mountain bike "Latina" is a great addition to a subscription to a fitness club. Fast, maneuverable, rolling and, finally, simply beautiful, he confidently overcomes bumps and rushes forward, delivering a lot of pleasure to the cyclist.

The design of the bike provides for simple and reliable entry-level bike mechanics from the world brand Shimano. It is installed in a steel frame, the geometry of which is designed for daily trips in a comfortable rhythm. Z-AXIS tires are versatile and fully functional both on asphalt and on the ground. Along with the bike itself, the kit also comes with mudguards, a footrest and reflectors. The model is sent in a box with a total weight of 19 kg disassembled, but the assembly is intuitive, and even graceful female hands can handle it in half an hour.

The Seido mountain bike is distinguished by its lowered frame, which is comfortable to fit in, light weight, and graceful shapes - the Forward company knows how to attract the female half. And outwardly, the model with white wings and a stylish saddle is very remarkable, whether in blue (rather turquoise), pink, yellow or green.

From a technical point of view, the quality of the bike is also quite high: the gearshift works clearly, there are no complaints about the brakes, the front shock absorbers provide a soft exit from the curbs. The installed equipment belongs to the 1st initial class, while, as expected, the Japanese Shimano works out more than 500 km of the resource. If there are any issues related to bicycle mechanics, they are promptly, within 2-3 days, resolved by the service center. His work is often noted in a positive way in the reviews.

Proud representative of a new line of bikes from the Czech company Author, based on the use of a walking kit. The main advantage of the Classic is that it makes the most of a less advanced body kit, showing good results in amateur and semi-professional competitions.You read that right: this bike is really considered for use by semi-professionals due to its good design, ease of repair and the possibility of personal fine-tuning.

The disadvantage of the Author Classic as a walking hardtail is the fork travel shortened to 60 millimeters. As noted by users who managed to test the bike in action, this nuance significantly changes the strategy for overcoming terrain with variable terrain. The cost of the model, taking into account all aspects, seems slightly overpriced, but in terms of applicability, it simply cannot be insisted on.

Merida knows its business very well. Creating a mountain hybrid with not the most outstanding components and technical characteristics, they very deliberately decided to play on the ergonomics and comfort of the model. Having, to put it mildly, canopies of average wear resistance, the hybrid offers the user to adjust the steering column for take-out and lift, as well as a shock-absorbing seatpost, which makes the already soft seat a kind of vibration damper. This is a great recreational bike designed for fast-paced road trips and aggressive off-road outings. But, alas, he does not reach the title of sportsman.

Advantages:

• exceptional comfort;
• good workmanship;
• pleasant appearance;
• 24 speeds.

Flaws:

• the presence of entry-level awnings.

The Giant Roam 2 Disc is a hard tail designed for road trips and challenging off-road terrain.In general, the users of this bike are satisfied with the handling, and the margin of safety when passing difficult sections, and the appearance, which is not devoid of brand refinement. Despite the average body kits of the walking level, the mountain hybrid shows its best side, and the price for such a model is quite acceptable. There are no particular shortcomings here.

Advantages:

• good rolling, handling and road feel;
• high reliability noted by users;
• good appearance;
• availability of 27 speeds.

Flaws:

• not found.

The first thing that catches the eye of a person familiar with Merida bikes in this model is the unusual frame structure of the Crossway Speed. It is made of aluminum, and there are no innovations in this, but the developers have thoroughly worked on the formation of pipes and thereby improved not only the aesthetic component, but driving performance in general. After the modernization, the device has become much more versatile in terms of speed and at the same time comfort of the trip.

The bike is equipped with a reliable fork from the Suntour brand with its full blocking on the right “leg”. This means that vehicles can be adapted to road conditions or provide a decent acceleration rate close to that of a road bike. In addition, the hybrid got 28" wheels from the road bike with all their advantages: maximum roll, stability and almost no shaking on potholes.