If you are looking for a good cheap hardtail mountain bike, then you should expect to spend at least $500 to get something that has quality components and offers you a great ride out there on the trails. Of course, the best bikes often have really high price tags, but mtbers on a budget can easily find affordable bikes under 1000 dollars that will last for several years.
So, if you take your mountain biking seriously, but need something with a low price under $2000, let me share some of the top models on the market right now. In this price range, Diamondback offers the most options that represent a good mountain bike for the money, but you’ll also see a few other brands in the mix. One thing to keep in mind is that prices can vary from one store to the next and they can even change from day to day at the same store.
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Our Picks: Top 10 Hardtail Mountain Bikes (2018)
(5 / 5)
(4.6 / 5)
(4.5 / 5)
(4.8 / 5)
(4.4 / 5)
One thing to keep in mind is that the mtbs listed below are hardtail bikes and not full suspension. If you’re not clear on the differences, take a look at this before you start shopping.
BEIOU Toray T700 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike Review
BEIOU Toray T700 Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike Complete Bicycle
If you want a good mtb in your price range that is not made by Diamondback, then I definitely suggest that you check out this BEIOU mountain bike. I think it offers a lot of great features and quality for the money.
This is actually one of the cheapest mtbs that BEIOU makes, which means that you get a heck of a lot for your money with this one. It comes in four different color combo designs that you can choose from. Here are the top specs for this bike:
- Material: Toray T700 Carbon Fiber
- Speed Control System: SHIMANO ALTUS 370 (9S)
- Flat Handlebar: BEIOU Aluminum 600mm/31.8mm
This one is definitely a great bike if you don’t mind spending most of your budget to get it. Once you ride this one, you’ll never want to get off it.
Diamondback 2015 Axis Sport Hard Tail Complete Mountain Bike Review
Diamondback 2015 Axis Sport Hard Tail Complete Mountain Bike
When it comes to good entry level mountain bikes, this model is one of my favorites. It handles well, whether on a flat stretch of trail or a steep, bumpy incline. You get smooth acceleration and easy climbs when you take this bike out on the trails.
Of all the mtbs on the list above, this one right here is probably the best value for the money. It is the perfect match of quality components and affordable price. And being a Diamondback bike, you know that it’s gonna be a decent quality bike.
Here’s a quick glance at the top specs for this one:
- Extras: chainstay protector, bottle mounts
- Wheelset: DB SL-7
- Handlebar Width: 720 mm
- Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25 in
- Fork: SR Suntour XCR-LO
Overall, I think you will have a lot of fun out there with this mountain bike. And if you’re rough on your bikes, then you’ll be pleased to know that this one can take a beating and keep on going.
Diamondback Women’s 2015 Lux Hard Tail Complete Mountain Bike Review
Diamondback Women’s 2015 Lux Hard Tail Complete Mountain Bike
If you’re a woman in search of a good mountain bike, then you probably already know how limited the selection is out there. However, Diamondback knows that women enjoy hitting the trails and this Lux mtb for women is actually a pretty good mountain bike for the money. Even if you don’t mind riding the unisex or men’s mountain bikes, just give this one a try and see if you don’t end up preferring it in the end.
I’d firmly put this one in the beginner or entry-level mtb category because, though it is a decent bike, it doesn’t have the top of the line components. Of course, this should come as no shock to you since it’s so cheap. Now, if you are new to mountain bike or want something for occasional use or for easier trails, then this bike is the perfect choice for you. I’m hesitant to advise this one for more experienced riders or those who want something to also use for road riding. Why? Because the shocks and brakes could be better. That being said, there is really nothing wrong with this bike – I just want you to be aware of what you’re getting with it.
Take a look at the specs:
- Devine designs women’s specific fit 6061-t6 aluminum alloy frame with added stand over clearance
- 27.5″ Wheels provide great traction and a stable ride
- Sr sun tour soft spring 80mm suspension fork provides a compliant ride
- Shimano 8-speed shifters and derailleurs deliver reliable performance
- Disc brakes provide great stopping power
One of the really nice things about this one is the frame size choices. I think this one is actually the smallest size frame that Diamondback makes, with a 15-inch frame size option that is perfect for petite women. So, if you’re on the short side when it comes to height, you will love the smallest frame size that this model comes in (it also goes up to a 19-inch frame).