Mountain biking is an excellent sport that tests your endurance, building power, and agility. It is also a good way of experiencing nature’s beauty while riding across streams, over rocks, and all types of various terrain. It is a fun and exciting, yet terrifying and nerve-wracking experience at the same time. Whether mountain biking is your full-time sport or part-time activity, it is important to have a good mountain bike.
The average mountain bike cost is $4978.67, start $489.99 to $9500. The average price of a mountain bike helmet is $150. The average price of mountain bike shoes is $130, with the cheapest costing about $80. The average price of padded mountain bike shorts id $100, with the least expensive ones costing about $60. The average price of mountain bike gloves is about $45, with the cheapest ones costing about $20.
This article will take a detailed look at some of the best mountain bike brands in the world. It shall analyze some of the best mountain bikes for beginners under each brand, listing their average costs, and the features that make them good for beginners.
Average Mountain Bike Cost for Beginners
Specialized
1. Men’s Rockhopper
The Men’s Rockhopper is the best ride for you to gain confidence on the trail. The bike has a lightweight A1 Aluminum frame that provides it with a durable platform that compliments Specialized’s XC Sport 29 Geometry. It also features 80/90/100mm of coil-sprung suspension travel that swings well above its weight class.
The bike’s geometry adjusts the stand-over height, angles and reach for an improved fit across the size range. It also has grippy Ground Control Sport tires that provide impressive traction over any trail. The Rockhopper also features a full Shimano drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and an SR Suntour XCT 29 fork with Specialized’s custom Multi-Circuit damping that eliminated the pogo feel usually associated with coil forks.
Price
The Specialized 2019 Rockhopper Base 29er Mountain Bike goes for $489.99
Pros
- It has a light frame
- It is durable and reliable
- Rapid rolling 29’ wheels
Cons
- No dropper post option
2. Turbo Levo Comp
The 2020 Specialized Turbo Levo Comp has an advanced eMTB frame with an M5 alloy front and rear end. The frame has an asymmetrical design that provides the right levels of comfort and capability. The bike has a low bottom bracket, short chainstays, and a lengthy top tube. The design of the bike ensures that its suspension is more supple on small hits while at the same time being able to take big impacts without bottoming out.
This model of the Turbo Levo features the new specialized M2-series battery with a 700Wh capacity seamlessly integrated into the frame. This e-bike also has a double freewheel design that disengages the gearbox when you reach top speed.
Price
The Specialized 2020 Turbo Levo Comp Full Suspension 29er electric bike goes for $5,974.99.
Pros
- Has impressive heat management
- Consistent and smooth output even at maximum power
Cons
- It is not available at all locations.
Trek Bikes
1. Fuel EX 9.8
The Fuel EX is a mountain bike that is capable of reaching impressive speeds. It features a stiff and light full OCLV Mountain Carbon frame that is built to handle any terrain with dialed suspension, and high-quality parts. It has tubeless-ready Carbon 30 wheels with a 54-tooth rapid drive rear hub for quick engagement a line elite dropper post and an OCLV Carbon handlebar.
Its internal storage compartment and its cable routing not only add to the bike’s sleek look but also its outstanding capability. It is also equipped with RE:Aktiv shocks that work faster than normal shocks. This enables the bike to keep you in control and track the ground better.
Price
The price of the fuel EX 9.8 ranges from $5,499.99 to $5.999.99.
Pros
- It is light, fast and capable of handling any form of terrain
- It is customizable
- It has a sleek storage compartment that allows you to store tools and gear
2. Slash 9.8
The Slash 9.8 is a carbon enduro mountain bike that is designed to rail corners, handle big hits and get you up and down a mountain at incredible speed. Its frame is made from ultra-stiff and lightweight OCLV Mountain Carbon for speed and durability.
The bike also features Bontrager Line Carbon 30 wheels, a dropper post, and carbon bars. The wheels have a 54-tooth rapid drive hub for fast acceleration when needed. Its incredible design and high-end specs make the bike ridiculously fast. It is so responsive and stable that the faster you go, the better it rides.
Price
The price of the Slash 9.8 ranges between $5,899.99 to $6,399.99
Pros
- It is incredibly fast
- Its shocks work faster than normal shocks, allowing the bike to track the ground faster and keep you in control
- It is customizable
Cons
- Several parts have to be purchased separately
Giant Bicycles
1. Anthem Advanced Pro 29
The Anthem Advanced Pro 29 has a superlight advanced-grade carbon frame that includes the rear swingarm and front triangle. The bike is a full suspension 29er that features 100mm of smooth front suspension travel and 90mm at the rear. Its rear suspension system has a trunnion-mount shock that has a lower leverage ratio for enhanced braking performance and efficient pedaling. Its linkage allows for shorter chainstays.
This improves the bike’s climbing capabilities and overall agility. Its composite upper rocker arm is strong, stiff and light. It also has an integrated Giant Wheel System that gives you incredibly strong and stiff wheels for precise and confident handling on XC terrain.
Price
The average price of the Anthem Advanced Pro 29 is $5,350.
Pros
- It has strong stiff wheels for precise handling
- Has impressive shocks for enhanced braking and pedaling
- It has incredible climbing capabilities and overall agility
2. XTC Advanced +
The XTC Advanced + is the perfect bike for off-road adventures. The bike is handcrafted with Superlight Advanced-grade composite. It has a 27.5+ configuration that allows you to run oversized tires for confident handling on rowdy and rough single-track. Its frame is designed with quick and stable geometry that is optimized for a 120mm suspension fork. Its wheels feature tubeless-ready sleeve-joint rims with 35mm inner width.
Price
The price of the XTC Advanced + mountain bike is $2300.
Pros
- Has impressive off-road performance
- Its 27.5+ configuration allows for oversized tires for confident handling
Cons
- Does not come with pedals
Santa Cruz
1. V10
Santa Cruz is the most successful mountain bike in downhill history. The bike features an adjustable chainstay length that optimizes the front and rear balance. It also has a low leverage rate that allows optimal shock performance. Its internal derailleur cable routing on swingarm provides protective housing from chain damage. Its frame is made from Carbon CC.
The V10’s wheels can either be 27.5” or 29”. The 27.5 bike has a parallel design to that of the 29er, with a similar suspension platform and chassis. The 27.5 is available in small, medium and large while the 29er is available in medium, large and XL.
Price
The price of the Santa Cruz V10 is $3699.
Pros
- Has an adjustable chainstay length
- Is available both as a 27.5 and a 29
Cons
- Its pedals are not included
2. Bronson
The Bronson is a versatile mountain bike that can tackle whatever role it is cast into. It has a lower-link mounted shock configuration that allows for maximum bump performance, a barely detectable bottom out and a supportive mid-stroke.
It has 150mm 0f VPP travel on 27.5-inch wheels that enhances the bike’s agility and stability. It also has a 65-degree head angle to ensure that the handling of the bike remains refined. Its frame is made of Aluminum, Carbon C, and Carbon CC. The wheels sizes are available in 27.5” or 27.5” +. It also has a one-piece swingarm that keeps the rear wheel tracking on point regardless of how twisted you get.
Price
The Bronson goes for $3,499.
Pros
- It can be used on any kind of terrain
- Has a 65-degree head angle for enhanced handling
Cons
- Its pedals are not included
Cannondale
1. SuperSix EVO
The SuperSix EVO is a mountain bike designed purely for the road. It features an ultralight low-drag Hi-MOD BallisTec carbon frameset. Its frame boasts of highly truncated airfoil tube shapes that offer the same weight and better stiffness than round tubes but reduce drag.
The drag-reducing tube shapes and the integrated design of the SuperSix EVO save 30 watts more than the previous designs at 30mph. The bike is built for agility, speed, and handling.
Price
The SuperSix EVO goes for $10,499
Pros
- It is very fast and can tackle all terrain
- It’s airfoil tubes and integrated design saves power
Cons
- Its pedals are not included
2. Monterra Neo
The Monterra Neo is an e-mountain bike with amazing capability. It features a carbon frame that enhances its durability. It also has a Fox Float Factory 36 fork and DPX2 EVOL shock that enhances the bike’s bump performance. It also has a 625Wh battery that is seamlessly integrated into the frame. The bike records excellent performance on challenging trails, out in the elements, and up and down hills.
The bike is designed to have a low center of gravity for traction and speed. Its short chainstays and modern geometry ensure that the bike exhibits top-notch handling. It also features an offset drivetrain that opens up the rear triangle for more tire clearance. Its rear wheel is stronger and stiffer for enhanced stability. It is also equipped with Magura MT7 hydraulic discs that enhance the bike’s braking capabilities.
Price
Cannondale’s Monterra Neo 1 goes for$6300.
Pros
- Offers incredible handling
- Has a stiffer and stronger rear wheel for enhanced stability
- Has impressive braking capabilities
Cons
- The pedals are not included
Yeti Cycles
1. Yeti SB165
The Yeti SB165 is a mountain bike that is designed to handle the toughest and steepest terrain. It is designed for taking the most fun way down a mountain.
The SB165 is a much bigger, slacker, longer bike than its predecessor, the SB6. It has straighter tubes that are crisper than its previous models. The SB165 has 165mm travel, hence its name. It also has a 180mm fork and a 63.5-degree head angle. It also has 433mm chainstays. The bike uses Switch Infinity suspension and has a progressive 27.5% coil-spring-optimized tune.
Price
The Yeti SB165 Carbon Series goes for an average price of $6,199.
Pros
- Has an efficient climbing position
- Has a shock extender designed to work well with a coil shock
Cons
- You won’t have as much fun on slow trails
2. Yeti SB150
The Yeti SB150 is a mountain equipped with a 170mm fork and 150mm of rear travel. The bike also has a longer modern geometry, with 460 mm of reach. It also has 433mm chainstays and a 1,233mm wheelbase.
This model is designed for enduro racers and can withstand racing downhill with speed. It also has excellent pedaling efficiency despite the sensitive suspension and the long traveling.
Price
The Yeti SB150 TURQ Series goes for an average price of $8,599.
Pros
- Has incredible capability, traction, and stability
- Has excellent pedaling efficiency
Cons
- Has a sensitive suspension
Diamond Back
- Release 5C Carbon
The Release 5C Carbon is a new-school technology mountain bike that features an incredible design that allows the bike to climb and accelerate with the efficiency of a featherweight race rig. The design of the bike exhibits modern geometry.
It has a long front and is short in the rear. It is also low in the bottom bracket. This gives the bike incredible stability at high speeds, without sacrificing its agility especially on tight trails. The bike’s frame features a Carbon Release 27.5, a 130mm travel, monocoque carbon front and rear triangle, and a level link suspension platform.
Price
The Diamond Back Release5C Carbon mountain bike goes for an average price of $5,000.
Pros
- Outstanding stability at high speeds
- Can tackle any kind of terrain
Cons
- The pedals are not included
2. Lux 1
The Diamondback Lux 1 women’s mountain bike is designed for a wide range of female riders looking to get into the exciting world of mountain biking. The bike features a sleek frame that allows for plenty stand over clearance for you to maneuver the bike as easy as possible.
The bike has 27.5” wheels which enhance its handling. The bike can to withstand almost any situation, be it winding through a twisty single track, climbing a steep trail, or letting loose on the downhills.
The bike also boasts od 2.35” tires, a 3×8 speed Shimano drivetrain that is equipped with a lot of gears, and Tektro mechanical disc brakes. These features give the bike outstanding traction, speed, and control.
Price
The Diamondback Lux 1 women’s mountain bike goes for an average price of $600.
Pros
- It is cheap
- Has good handling, speed, and traction.
Cons
- It is designed specifically for women
Pivot Cycles
1. Mach 4 SL
The Mach 4 SL is designed to allow World Cup athletes to capitalize on every inch of their courses which are increasingly becoming technical and generate speed where other athletes would usually hesitate.
The bike features a lightweight frame made from carbon, ensuring that it delivers maximum agility even on the most technical trails. It has a wheel size of 29” for enhanced stability. Its headset is equipped with a Pivot precision sealed Integrated cartridge.
The handlebars are made from the Phoenix team flat carbon. It also features brakes made from Shimano XT M8100 2-pistons for advanced handling.
Price
The Mach 4 SL mountain bike has an average price of $9,500.
Pros
- Has an incredibly light design for speed
- It is stable and has reliable handling
Cons
- The pedals are not included
2. Trail 429
Pivot Cycles’ Trail 429 is a mountain bike designed for all kinds of terrain. The 429 is capable of performing outstandingly on almost every trail. It can accelerate and climb like a cross-country bike yet it manages to hold its own on tough terrain.
The bike design boasts of progressive long and low geometry that gives it a stable, confident stance allowing it to tackle technical terrain well. The trail 429 is capable of incredible power transfer and acceleration and still have effortless handling regardless.
The bike also has a full carbon frame with leading-edge materials and Pivot’s hollow-core and internal molding technology. The bike is compatible with both 29” and 27.5” + wheel sizes.
Price
Pivot Cycles’ Trail 429 mountain bike goes for an average price of $7,599
Pros
- It has class-leading tire and mud clearance
- Its ultra-short chainstays make it possible for the bike to handle the tightest trails
Cons
- The pedals are not included
IBIS CYCLES
1. Ripmo AF
The Ripmo AF is a more affordable version of the Ripmo, a long-travel 29er. The main difference between the two is that the Ripmo has a carbon frame while the Ripmo AF has an aluminum frame, hence the AF.
Other than that, the Ripmo AF is slacker, longer, and incorporates a more progressive suspension design. This allows the bike to run coils as well as air shocks. Ripmo AF has clearance for 29×1.6 tires and uses a 73mm threaded bottom bracket.
Price
The price of the Ripmo AF ranges between 2,999-4,999.
Pros
- It is an all-rounded bike that can tackle almost any kind of terrain
- It is affordable
Cons
- It is heavier than its carbon counterpart hence less maneuverable
2. Mojo HD5
The Mojo HD5 is a mountain bike designed to tackle a wide range of terrain. The bike features the smaller 27.5” wheels with a significantly longer and slacker geometry than its predecessors.
It offers 153mm travel at the rear and has a 170mm fork. Its rear end has a virtual pivot point DW linkage that is controlled by a FOX X2 Factory shock. The shock offers maximum traction through a rebound damping tune and an extra light compression. Ibis allows customers to choose the build and configure the bicycle in a manner that suits their preferences and budget.
Price
The pricing of the Ibis Mojo HD5 starts from $8498
Pros
- Has an impressive design that allows for maximum freedom of movement on the bike
- The rear end of the bike offers unimaginable traction
Cons
- The 27.5” wheels limit the potential of the bike’s geometry and suspension
Evil Bike Co.
1. Chamois Hagar
The Chamois Hagar is a product of Evil Bikes, a company known for its radical approaches when it comes to bike design. The bike has a staggeringly slack head tube angle of 66.67 degrees, a 185mm dropper post, and a 50mm stem. It features a carbon frame with exquisite organic curves.
Its chainstays are asymmetrical to make room for 700×50 tires and enhanced handling on gravel roads.
Price
The average price of the Chamois Hagar mountain bike is $5,799.
Pros
- It has numerous mounting points
- Can withstand even the most demanding situations
Cons
- It tends to overshoot corners
2. The Offering
The offering is a 140mm rear travel 29-inch bike with a steeper seat tube angle and longer reach numbers than other products of Evil Bikes. This design of the bike improves the seated climbing position of the rider.
The frame of the bike is made from UD carbon and has flip-chip links that allow the bike to seat in the low position, thus changing the head tube angle by .6 degrees.
Price
The offering has a starting price of $5700
Pros
- Has a longer reach and seat tube angle
- Has suspension linkage that allows you to take advantage of the 140mm rear travel
- Has a better climbing position
Cons
- It is more of a trail bike than an enduro sled
SALSA CYCLES
1. Horsethief
The Horsethief Carbon XTR is one of the most versatile mountain bikes available. The bike features 140mm of front suspension and 120mm rear travel which makes the bike very stable and manageable. It features Shimano XTR four-piston brakes that deliver an incredible stopping power as well as light and precise shifts.
The carbon frame makes the bike as agile as it can be, and even more fun. The bike’s flip-chip is compatible with both 29” and 27.5” + wheels which add to its versatility.
Price
The Horsethief goes for $7,099.
Pros
- Has a versatile tire fit
- Consistent braking traction
Cons
- Does not have touch up paint
2. Rustler
The Rustler Carbon XTR is a mountain bike that sports a light carbon frame and innovative geometry. The bike also features the slight bump compliance and the climbing prowess of Split Pivot. It has 27.5” carbon wheels that ensure the bike is as nimble as possible. The bike also has 150mm travel and 130mm shock to withstand trail impacts.
Price
The Rustler Carbon XTR goes for $7,099
Pros
- Offers efficient pedaling
- Has a progressive leverage rate
Cons
- Pedals are not included
Kona
1. Process 134 CR/DL 29
The Process 134 CR/DL 29 is a mountain bike that is designed to be lightweight and built to perform even in demanding conditions. The bike’s frame is made of Kona Carbon which is light and durable.
The bike also features an internal headset that reduces not only the stack height but also ensures that the height of the bars and the stem are adjustable. This gives the rider the best fit possible. The bike is also equipped with beamer independent suspension to help the bike recover from hits more quickly and to stay higher in the travel.
Price
The Process 134 CR/DL 29 goes for an average price of $5,999
Pros
- Has tubeless compatible rims
- Has a tapered head tube for better shock distribution
Cons
- Pedals are not included
2. Fire Mountain
The Fire Mountain is a Kona classic that helps to build the rider’s confidence off-road. The bike’s frame is made of Kona 6061 aluminum. The frame is light and durable, giving a reliable performance that continues for thousands of rides.
It also features an internal headset which reduces the stack height, making the height of the bars and stem more adjustable, giving the rider the best fit possible. The bike has 27.5” wheels, making the bike more maneuverable.
Price
The Fire Mountain is affordable, going for an average price of $699.
Pros
- It is affordable
- Has a lifetime warranty
- Has a tapered headtube for better shock distribution
Cons
- It is heavier than its carbon counterpart
Co-op cycles
1. DRT 1.1W Women’s Bike
The DRT 1.1W Women’s Bike is designed to fit the typical female body. The design, therefore, features a shorter top tube, narrower handlebars, a shorter stem, and a saddle specifically designed for women.
It also features a smooth coil-sprung suspension fork with 100mm of travel. This suspension fork absorbs the impacts of the bumps. The bike’s frame is made of aluminum, making it durable. The bike is also equipped with responsive hydraulic disc brakes that provide you with the feedback needed to adjust speed precisely.
Price
The DRT 1.1W Women’s bike goes for an average price of $499
Pros
- It is affordable
- It delivers smooth and precise gear changes
- Can conquer a variety of terrain
Cons
- It is designed exclusively for women
2. DRT 3.1 Bike
The DRT 3.1 Bike is a mountain bike designed to be ridden in almost all kinds of terrain. Both its air-sprung front suspension and air rear have external rebound that adjusts to maintain the smoothness of the ride whilst maintaining traction to the trail.
It is also equipped with a remote-control dropper seatpost that lets you adjust to the terrain while in motion. It also has front and rear thru-axles for added rigidity. It is also equipped with 26” + x 2.8” wheels and 120mm of front and rear travel.
Price
The DRT 3.1 Bike has an average cost of $2,199.
Pros
- Its hydraulic discs provide reliable stopping power
- Has a clutch-style derailleur that decreases chain slap hence enhancing shifts
Cons
- Pedals are sold separately
YT INDUSTRIES
1. JEFFSY Pro Race 29
The YT JEFFSY Pro Race 29 is a mountain bike that features a low-slung carbon frame and a thick head tube that makes it able to tackle almost any kind of terrain.
It has a 150mm travel upfront combined with rear for impressive results. The bike has SRAM G2 RSC brakes which offer sufficient braking for most trails. The bike is available with both 27.5” wheels or the 29” ones.
Price
The JEFFSY Pro Race 29 is priced at $5,699.
Pros
- Has a versatile tire fit
- It is very quiet
Cons
- The RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ lacks mid-stroke support
2. Decoy Base 29
The Decoy Base 29 is YT Industries’ first eMTB. The bike has already successfully become a worthy competitor with its mixed wheel concept and its 160/165 mm of suspension travel. The Decoy 29 has a conservative geometry for touring characteristics and climbing.
The bike has a carbon mainframe, a 540Wh battery and four-piston brakes with 200mm discs. The Decoy 29 uses 29” wheels. To make room for these wheels, the bike has a rear shock with less stroke and longer chainstays. It also has a 150mm travel fork.
Price
The YT Decoy Pro 29 goes for $5,599.
Pros
- Has a well-integrated speed sensor
- It is paired to a Yari RC
Cons
- Can only fit a 475ml water bottle into the limited space available in the front triangle
Basic Mountain Biking Gear Cost for Beginners
Helmets
A helmet is the most important basic mountain biking gear. Wearing a biking helmet is important as it significantly reduces the severity of head injuries especially during low-speed crashes. They also help block out the sun as you ride, preventing you from being distracted by flashing lights or by glare.
The average price of a mountain bike helmet is $150.
Shoes
Mountain bike shoes are also important gear for mountain bikers. These shoes are cleated and work with pedals to lock the rider’s feet to the bike. They provide good traction off the bike, comfort, durability, and a stiff sole for enhanced pedaling efficiency.
The average price of mountain bike shoes is $130, with the cheapest costing about $80.
Shorts
Since mountain bikes are mostly ridden over rough terrain, it is important to have padded and protective bike shorts. Mountain bike shorts have an inner pad that is worn like underwear.
The padding provides comfort and reduces chafing on the bike. The outer layer is made of tough, abrasion-resistant fabric to withstand the wear and tear of the trail.
The average price of padded mountain bike shorts id $100, with the least expensive ones costing about $60.
Gloves
It is important to have gloves on when riding a mountain bike. This is because riding a mountain bike is much more demanding on the hands than normal cycling.
Having gloves not only absorbs a lot of trail shock but also protects your hands should you fall on a rough trail. Full finger gloves provide the best coverage, grip on brake levers, and protection.
The average price of mountain bike gloves is about $45, with the cheapest ones costing about $20.
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