Are you looking to invest in a mountain bike that promises quality at an affordable price range?

Finding a decent yet powerful mountain bike under $500 is really a challenging task, you have to spend countless hours to find the gem. Having said that, a lot of manufacturers are designing new models of mountain bikes with features similar to the expensive ones, so you don’t have to worry about the quality.

The latest technology has introduced Aluminum frame that adds strength and durability to these lowest priced bikes. These bikes are best suited for entry level to intermediate level riders.

So, if you are looking for any model that is comfortable, durable and appealing, then check our reviews of these mountain bikes under 500 dollars to decide easily which model will meet your needs and requirements.

Top Picks: 10 Best Entry Level Mountain Bikes under $500

To clear away this confusion, we have come up with the list which will help you to choose the best mountain bike in the mid-range category that won’t break your bank!

If you are looking for a mountain bike designed and created for beginners and casual riders, then you should consider the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1.

In the DRT bike series from REI, the 1.1 is an entry-level model with an affordable price tag. Some of the key features of the DRT 1.1 include hydraulic disk brakes, a robust front suspension, and Shimano components. All these features guarantee a decent level of quality and a lengthy lifespan.

The Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 is ideal for riders ranging from 5’0” to 6’3”. It comes in two colors (may vary) and 5 frame sizes. This is the perfect mountain bike for first-time riders that will help you explore all types of trails near your home.

Thanks to its 27.5” wheels and a strong front suspension, the DRT 1.1 can concur any sort of terrain. It is a versatile bike that can be used not only for exercise but other roles such as commutation. Also, with the 100mm coil-sprung front suspension, you can be assured of accurate handling and comfort, ideal for both short trail and long cross country adventures. This mountain bike boasts of 2.1” Kendra Kadre tires which offer a steady grip, comfort, and stability even in off-road trails.

This key features section would be incomplete if we didn’t talk about the hydraulic disk brakes. This is one of the advantages of choosing the DRT 1.1 over other mountain bikes within the same price range, because, most feature mechanical brakes. Hydraulics guarantees better precision and higher braking power. Whether you are buying the bike for yourself or your teenage kid, you can be assured of maximum safety.

Being an entry-level mountain bike, the DRT 1.1 contains a group-set of 21 Shimano gears. The 3×7 drivetrain accompanied by a wide range of gears provides sufficient power for cycling both up and downhill. Not to mention, the Tourney rear derailleur delivers smooth and precise gear changes. This makes it excellent for riders with an active lifestyle.

Overall, the DRT 1.1 is the perfect mountain bike for beginners. It’s affordable and boasts of superior features compared to other bikes in its price range. The Co-op cycle comes in three main sizes; medium, small, and extra small. It can carry a maximum weight of 300 lbs inclusive of the rider and other gear. Also, REI, the manufacturers offer free tune-ups after 6 months of purchase.

The Diamondback Overdrive is a bike that gets you a lot of value but with a price that’s more affordable. It has 27.5-inch wheels and 24 speeds to give you a full range of gears for any riding situation.

This is an aluminum hardtail bike but has a four-inch Suntour suspension fork meaning it can eat up and absorb bumps while keeping you stable and comfortable. To go with that this bike features big knobby tires which will also give you more comfort and control while you grip over roots, rocks, and bumps.

The overdrive features a Shimano drive train and Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes for precise stopping and a smooth ride.

The frame is a 6061-T6 aluminum frame that can hold up to intense riding and the spring fork is the XCT 27 coil that has 80mm of travel to make for that more comfortable riding experience. This is a hand-build classic mountain bike that is great for any level of rider.

Mongoose Dolomite is your choice for a great fat tire mountain bike. The main feature with this bike are of course the super large tires. They are 26 inches high but they are 4 inches wide. This allows the Dolomite to ride through pretty much anything. It eats up rough terrain but rides through snow and sand like you were on hard asphalt.

It can ride over rocks while still staying perfectly under control and no matter what the conditions you can take this bike out into them.

Besides its large tires the Mongoose Dolomite features a shimano rear derailleur with seven different speeds. This allows it to conquer hills while smoothly shifting between gears. It has a threadless headset which is adjustable so it can accommodate riders of all sizes and the front and rear disc brakes provides accurate stopping no matter what conditions you choose to ride it in.

This bike comes with beach cruiser peddles to give you an even more comfortable ride and provides a pleasurable ride through sand. It has a super-sized beach cruiser frame as well which not only makes it strong and durable but maneuverable and responsive.

The Blackjack 3.0 is the perfect choice for various mountain biking needs such as trail riding, road riding, or just commuting. This bike features a hand-built hydroformed alloy frame that is incredibly strong and long-lasting to hold up to any style of rider. This is a light bike and to make it even lighter it has a larger 30.9mm diameter seat post to save weight.

It has Shimano EZ fire shifters for immediate gear changes to accommodate any type of riding intensity. Also it has front and rear disc brakes for quick and accurate stopping and a strong suspension fork that allows you to cruise over any type of obstacles.

The Blackjack has double wall alloy rims that are light yet strong and an MTB saddle that is also comfortable but supportive. The 29-inch wheels allow for great riding speed but the ability to grip on uneven terrain including roots and rocks.

This is a low-cost bike that has a lot of high-end features and will allow you to ride in wet or dry conditions whether it’s on the trail or roads. It’s been redesigned and has added in these features to give you a complete bike for whatever you’re needing it for.

The Gravity FSX 1.0 is a dual full suspension bike that looks great and is also very affordable. You will get a lot of bike for a low amount of money making the FSX 1.0 an incredible value. This is a genuine trail riding bike that is under $500 which is tough to accomplish with how well it is made.

The FSX 1.0 has a hydroformed aluminum alloy frame that has extra reinforcement and ensures the highest level of strength in all riding situations. The areas on the frame that receive the most stress during a ride have the highest level of strength on this bike. For a dual suspension bike, it weighs in at only 26 pounds.

The suspension on the FSX 1.0 features front and rear Suntour shocks making it absorb even the toughest terrain like it’s not even there. The gears are all made of Shimano components including ultra light, but very responsive, EFT shifters. This gives you a very smooth shifting experience that provides 24 different gears.

This bike features brakes that you would normally find on a higher end bike. It uses Tektro Novela disc brakes for very strong stopping power along with very controlled braking. You can give slight squeezes and get a great response without having to apply too much force and pressure. For an aluminum frame dual suspension bike, the Gravity FSX 1.0 provides tremendous value.

The Schwinn Traxion features large 29 inch wheels that will make it a solid but smooth riding mountain bike. It’s made with the classic Schwinn aluminum dual suspension frame and a very powerful Schwinn suspension fork that combined with the large wheels will absorb any bumps with ease. With Schwinn you are getting history and quality and the Traxion gives you a durable riding experience.

This is a 24-speed bike that features Schwinns EZ-fire trigger shifters for rapid gear changes along with the Schwinn front and rear Shimano derailleurs so you will go from gear to gear with the utmost smoothness. It has front and rear mechanical disc brakes that provide extremely crisp braking in all-conditions whether out on a trail or on the roads.

Along with the 29 inch wheels you get extra wide double alloy rims that are very light but still extremely strong to give you even more durability while riding.

The knobby tires are also 2.25 inches wide so they can grip and handle crack, roots, and rocks with ease. This bike can be ridden on roads but it thrives on trails with its full suspension, durability, and precision so it will handle even the toughest terrains.

Schwinn is synonymous with cycling and has the legacy and history to provide quality. The Schwinn Protocol 1.0 is a dual suspension mountain bike which gives it a high-end amount of support especially for intense trail riding and very tough terrain.

This is a bike for beginner riders but will allow you to start terrain riding without fear of damaging it. It has an alloy aluminum frame and suspension frame to make it strong and resilient. It has 24 speeds to provide you with a sufficient amount of gears for any riding intensity. As strong as it is the SR Suntour front suspension fork makes it a very comfortable bike and a pleasure to ride.

The Protocol 1.0 features Shimano EF-50 trigger shifters for rapid gear changes no matter how intense the ride is. There is also extremely accurate stopping with the Pro Max front mechanical disc brakes meaning you can feel secure in any conditions and speeds.

This bike is known for its high-end wheels and rims and has 26-inch wheels so can accommodate riders of all sizes. They also have great traction whether it be off-road high-intensity riding or more relaxed road riding.

The Mongoose TYAX hardtail mountain bike is perfect for everyday use—commuting and leisure rides. This is perfect for intermediate riders from men to women who are five feet or taller.

The XC aluminium hardtail frame makes it very lightweight as compared to the standard steel frame. It provides amazing shock absorption on whatever type of terrain, providing smooth ride on rocks, bumps, and rough terrain.

Precise and efficient shifting is ensured with the powerful 27 speed drive train system. The new and efficient Shimano Acera rear and XCR front derailleur shifting system is a whole lot better than an entry level shifting derailleur. The bike was built to handle the toughest mountain trails, across deserts and city roads.

The bike budget suits to everyone : entry level, mid range and high end bikes are available, so you get freedom to pick your dream bike in an affordable range.

The Mongoose mountain bike arrives at your door that is mostly assembled, and only minor assembling is needed before one can fully ride the bike.

9. Merax Finiss 26″ Aluminum 24-Speed Mountain Bike

The Merax Finiss is a 26-inch bike with 24 speeds and features a very lightweight 19 inch Mountain frame. This will allow for quick maneuvering but very strong support while riding. This bike features Shimano derailleurs and shifters to move fast and smoothly between gears.

It also has front and rear disc brakes for precise stopping and quick response and every riding situation. The suspension fork has an 80mm travel which will give you a very smooth ride on even the bumpiest terrain. The wheels are made of double-wall aluminum rims for a smooth ride but strong support for hard cornering and tough surfaces.

The front tire has a quick release pin for added security and the front handlebars have a wider turning radius while still maintaining control. This lightweight and sturdy bike is a great choice for reliable riding no matter on roads on through trails. It can accommodate riders of all sizes while still providing a comfortable and relaxing ride.

It’s an inexpensive option to get into the mountain biking lifestyle while still providing you with a quality, long-lasting bike.

Raleigh does more than road bikes, and all you off-road riders will fall in love with Raleigh’s mountain bikes. Every other person doesn’t go for Mountain Bikes. However, if you are really a sporty person and want to take your adventurous experience to the next level, then you should consider this Raleigh Tekoa Mountain Bike.

The lightweight AL-6061 SL custom butted aluminum frames can take any abuse you can dish out, along with 120mm SR Sun tour XCM fork that are built to last. The reliable Tektro auriga hydraulic disc brake gives this bike a powerful braking ability.

This model will definitely bring a smile on your face when you pedal with your friends and family members, thanks to its wide Kenda Honey badger tires.

As a matter of fact, this Raeigh Tekoa has all the things which you want in an intermediate level mountain bike, which costs below $500. So, if you want a dreamy-smooth ride that says performance, then it is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much should I spend on a decent mountain bike?

Quality mountain bikes range between $1000 to $5000. Although you may be tempted to pay heavily for the sake of quality, it’s advisable not to overspend. A budget of around $500 will give you a decent bike with all the great features you will need.

2. What is the best wheel size for a mountain bike?

The best option is the 26” which has been the standard for quite a long time. They are perfect for the 5’to 6’ height range, which is the average for most people.

3. What size of mountain bike do I need?

A frame size that fits you depends on your height. For instance, if your height falls between 5’7” and 6’2”, you will need a bike with a frame size between 17 and 21 inches. You can refer to mountain bike sizing guided to get the precise frame size.

The Bottom Line

As you can clearly see that we have compiled a brief yet explained the list of top 10 mountain bikes under $500 that can be easily available in the market. Although there are various good mountain bikes in this range, but must be aware that there are plenty of dead ducks too.

Within this price range it’s possible to snag some items which you must need to stay away from. It is advisable to avoid cheap plastic components because they simply aren’t as solid as metal and are liable to rupture quickly.

One more thing I would like to add here is Heavy Frame – Please try to refrain from it, make sure that you are getting a lighter frame bicycle only.

So, what are you waiting for…Choose your dream model and get ready to ride!