Mountain biking is a common outdoor activity all over the world. If you are a mountain bike enthusiast, then you know you need a high-quality mountain bike for the best experience. Generally, mountain bikes are known to be expensive. How can you find the best mountain bikes under 300 without compromising quality and performance?
Mountain biking is very common in the United States with over 40 million participants every year. The high demand of mountain bikes has initiated the production of many affordable and quality mountain bikes. So, if you thought that 300 bucks is too little, then you will be surprised with the number of mountain bikes you can get at that price.
Finding a mountain bike under 300 is not easy. You need to consider the quality and performance and other features to ensure you get the right bike. I have compiled a list of top 10 quality mountain bikes under 300 that are ideal for men and women. Check out this detailed review and guide before you buy.
Top Rated Mountain Bikes Under $300 - Comparison
Image | Name | Speed | Frame | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 27 speed | Aluminum | ||
 | 21 speed | Steel | ||
 | 18 speed | High Carbon Steel | ||
 | 21 speed | Carbon Steel | ||
 | 21 speed | Aluminum | ||
 | 21 speed | Carbon Steel | ||
 | 21 speed | Aluminum | ||
 | 21 speed | Carbon Steel | ||
 | 21 speed | Carbon Steel | ||
 | 21 speed | Aluminum | ||
 | 21 speed | Aluminum |
** At the time of publishing this post, each products price were under $300 in Amazon
Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 Reviews
Purchasing the best mountain bike can be tough especially if you are on a budget. My team and I spent many hours researching, comparing and testing over 100 brands. The following list comprises the top rated mountain bikes under 300 that are quality and perform amazingly well.
1. SIRDAR S-900 Mountain Bike For Men Women
This mountain bike is ideal for both men and women. It features an aluminum and carbon steel frame which assures you of long-lasting use. The mountain bike is strong enough to handle harsh environments, rainy days, and damages.
The 27-speed mountain bike features 3 front derailleur gears and 9 rear derailleurs to provide smooth shifting. You can at high speed without worrying about your safety. This is because it is packed with reliable rear and front disc brakes that provide sure stops.
Ride smoothly over gravel and other surfaces with the 27.5-inch wheels. It also features an aluminum suspension fork to smoothen your rides. The bike comes with two replaceable saddles suitable for highway and mountain road riding.
The anti-skid tires are made of anti-explosion material. This makes them wear-resistant, and puncture-resistant. This mountain bike also features rear and front lights to keep everyone on the road safe. It comes 95% assembled so you have very little work to do. You require to install the saddle, front wheel, pedal, and handlebars.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: Can I mount a water bottle in the frame?
A: Yes, you can.
Q: Is the seat adjustable?
A: Yes, the seat is adjustable.
Q: What is the user height recommended for this bike?
A: It recommends user height 5"5'-6"2.
2. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Make riding stylish and fun with the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike. It is made of a steel hardtail frame to provide the best performance and efficiency on various surfaces. The bike is best suited for riders with a height of 5 feet.
It features an alloy quick release to provide easy adjustment on the seat height. The bike also features a premium padded saddle with stitched sides to give long-lasting comfort. It includes a suspension fork that absorbs dips and bumps to make your rides smoother.
This adult sport mountain bike also has a Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur that works well with the micro-shift twist shifter to give 21-speed. This makes pure acceleration, uphill and downhill climbing easy. The lightweight alloy wheels feature a nice matte black that matches perfectly with the bike’s design.
The knobby tires provide excellent traction in both dry and wet conditions. You can get smooth rides on gravel, dirt, and pavement. Achieve comfortable riding posture with the slight-rise handlebar that reduces shoulder and back strain.
This mountain bike also offers safe rides with reliable rear and front linear-pull handbrakes. They offer the required stopping power whenever you need it.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: Can I attach a basket to this bike?
A: Yes.
Q: Is it a girl or boy bike?
A: Suitable for both. But frame design for boys.
Q: Where is the bike made of?
A: China.
3. Pacific Mountain Adult Sport Bike
The Pacific mountain bike is suitable for kids from 8 years and above. It can fit riders from 4 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 6 inches tall. The bike is made of a steel frame for durable rides. The frame features a suspension fork to provide smooth rides.
Your kids are safe riding the bike because it has a reliable and efficient braking system. The linear-pull brakes provide sure stops to keep young riders safe on the road.
The bike has 24-inch wheels that offer good traction on different riding surfaces. It also features 18-speed twist shifters combined with a rear derailleur to provide precise and consistent shifting. It also features a 3-piece mountain crank system to offer a wider gear range.
When it comes to durability, the bike is built with strong components. The alloy rims and the wider tires are durable and make riding easy on trails.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am 5 feet 3 inches tall. Can I ride this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Is this bike suitable for road riding.
A: Yes it is.
4. H&ZT Adult Mountain Bike
The H&ZT Adult Mountain Bike is ideal for both male and female riders. This mountain bike features a lightweight aluminum frame that makes pedaling and acceleration effortless. It has a suspension form that absorbs bumps and this makes your rides smooth and fun on forest ways, roads, and highways.
The bike is ideal for riders with a height of 5 feet 1 inch to 6 feet 1 inch. It is easier for you to adjust the seat height to suit your riding height. This gives you a comfortable riding position always.
The 21-speed front and rear derailleur make shifting easy and precise. You get more control when riding downhill, climbing uphill, or accelerating. Depending on your terrain, you can easily shift the gears to suit the terrain.
Achieve an efficient braking system with this mountain bike.
The rear and front disc brakes offer efficient stopping power that you need when riding at high speed. You can stop whenever you want to and be in control of your rides.
Assembling the bike is straightforward because it comes 80% assembled. The remaining 20% of work is easier and you also get the right tools needed to maintain the bike.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: My weight is 280 pounds. Can I use this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Can I attach a water bottle to the frame?
A: Yes.
5. Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Kent International is a well-known brand that provides safe and comfortable bikes and other related accessories. If you are on a tight budget and want to enjoy riding a mountain bike, Kent KZ2600 is here for you.
This is one of the cheapest mountain bikes you will find packed with amazing features. The bike brags of Shimano 21-speed Shifters that has rear tourney derailleur for easy shifting.
The bike is designed with a sturdy aluminum frame that is strong and lightweight. This makes the bike ideal for any weather. The size of the frame is 19 inches which can fit any person between 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet.
The bike is designed with knobby tires that provide the best traction on all types of terrains. The tires roll over obstacles to give you smooth rides. The tires are designed with a stiff and durable material that improves the balance and speed.
The braking system is important for any mountain bike. In this case, the front wheel of the bike features mechanical disc brake and the rear wheel has a linear pull brake. This assures you of a reliable stopping power all the time.
When you receive your package, you need to do some assembly. It comes with instructions to guide you and the process is simple and doesn’t consume much of your time.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am 6 feet tall. Can I ride this bike?
A: Yes, you can.
Q: What are the thickness of the tires?
A: The tires are around 2.1 inches thick
Q: Can my 12-year-old son ride this bike?
A: Yes, he can.
Q: Can a woman ride this bike?
A: Yes.
6. Merax Finiss 26" Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes
Apart from having fun, a good mountain bike should also guarantee you safety when you are on the road. The Merax Finiss 26" is an affordable mountain bike that provides you with smooth rides on different terrains. The bike features Shimano 21-speed derailleurs and shifters that assure you of smooth shifting. Additionally, the bike is fitted with front and rear mechanical brakes for reliable stopping power.
This bike is designed with an aluminum frame that not only makes it durable but also lightweight. The wheels of the bike are designed with a magnesium alloy, which is way lighter than aluminum. This gives you a strong and lightweight bike that is easy to handle.
This mountain bike has an 80mm suspension fork that assures you of smooth rides even on bumpy terrains. And if you want to increase control, you can rotate the suspension fork to 180 degrees before you assemble the front wheel.
Before you begin to use the bike, some assembly and tuning are needed. The assembly process is not complicated because the bike comes 85 percent assembled. You only need to assemble the front wheel, pedals, handlebars and inflate the tires.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am almost 6' long. Can I ride this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Does this bike come with a water bottle holder?
A: Yes, it does!
Q: Can I install fenders on this bike?
A: Yes you can. You just need to choose the right style for you.
Q: Are the tires tubeless?
A: No. But you possibly can convert to tubeless.
7. URSTAR 26" Mountain Bike with Front and Rear Disc Brakes
If you are looking for the best mountain bike for mountain climbing, traveling, outing or recreational cycling, the URSTAR 26" can be a nice pick. This is a nice bike for avid mountain bikers and beginners who want performance and style on the road. The saddle of the bike is designed with environmental friendly leather that is both comfortable and durable.
The bike features a 26-inch full suspension aluminum frame that can hold a total weight capacity of 265 lbs. it also features double aluminum rims that provide durability and efficiency. Additionally, it has a suspension form 70mm for easy control and smooth rides.
A good mountain bike should provide you with reliable stopping power. This is why this model has convenient rear and front brakes that provide you with a good stopping power. It has Shimano 24-speed derailleurs and shifters that give you better control on the road.
As compared to other normal bikes, this model is a little different. It has a buffering wheel, tireless crank, firm frame, and Shimano Derailleur. When it comes to assembly, it is 85 percent assembled. You need to tune it as per the instructions provided.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am over 250 pounds. Can I use this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Can I raise the handlebar?
A: No, you can't.
Q: Can I install a water bottle holder?
A: Yes you can.
8. Schwinn Women's High Timber Mountain
Are you an avid female rider looking for an affordable mountain bike? This mountain bike is the best choice for women. The bike is stable, durable and reliable. It is designed with a steel frame that provides comfort and smooth rides all the time.
The brakes and the tire quality of the bike are incredible. It features alloy linear pull brakes which help you get instant stops when you need to. It has alloy wheels that make it durable and strong as well as ease transportation. The bike has rugged tires that can handle any terrain well.
When buying a mountain bike, it is important to consider the craftsmanship. You want a solid bike that will serve you for many years. This mountain bike is perfectly crafted to provide you with stable rides all the time.
In reference to the gear quality, this women's bike has 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur that helps you ride at any speed you want. This entry level mountain bike is simple to assemble. You do not any professional assistance to put it together.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am 5'6". Can I use this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: Is the seat adjustable?
A: Yes, it is.
Q: What is the maximum weight limit?
A: 300 pounds.
Q: Are both wheels have quick release options?
A: No, only the front wheel has quick release options.
9. Reaction ICO-SH Full-Suspension Mountain Bike
Finding a quality mountain bike under 300 bucks can be tricky if you do not want to compromise on some features. If you are in need of an entry level full suspension mountain bike, this bike can be worth considering. This is a beginner mountain bike that fun and easy to ride.
The bike features a Hi-Tensile steel frame that is strong and durable. It is suitable for both male and female riders with a weight capacity of 250 pounds. The bike has a suspension that provides you with comfort, control and effective traction on different terrains.
The braking system of the bike is dependable. It has front brakes that help you to stop and rear brakes that slow you down. The efficient braking system helps you to get a better control when you are riding on any trail. The bike is also fitted with 18-spped twist shifters.
This mountain bike comes in one standard size to fit most people. You also need to do some assembly once you get your package.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: Can I use this bike in rough trails?
A: Yes, you can.
Q: What is the frame size?
A: The frame size is 18"
Q: I am 5’8″ long. Can I ride this bike?
A: Yes you can because this bike fit users between 5’6″ and 6’0″ in height
10. Vilano Ridge 1.0 Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes
This is an amazing mountain bike for people who love riding to work or riding for fun during weekends. It is suitable for mountain bike beginners who want to hit the trail and enjoy the experience. The bike features a suspension fork that helps you achieve smooth rides on bumpy and rough terrains.
The bike features mechanical disc brakes that give you with reliable stopping power when you need it. You can stop well regardless of the weather condition. Additionally, it has 21 speeds that make it ideal for town and trail riding.
It is designed with a butted 6061 aluminum frame that makes it stable and durable. The bike also features a 26-inch wheel that provides you with better traction on a variety of terrains.
This bike comes partially assembled. You need to put together some parts so that you can enjoy riding. The parts that you need to assemble completely include the handlebars, saddle, pedals, wheels, tune the brakes and the derailleurs, install the front wheel and brakes and flip the stem.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am 6 feet tall. Can I use this bike?
A: Yes, you can.
Q: Can I convert the tires to tubeless?
A: Yes, you can but you may need to take help from the nearest bike shop.
Q: Can I mount a child seat?
A: Yes, you can.
You May Read: Best Folding Mountain Bike – Which One To Choose?
11. Mongoose Stasis Expert 26-Inch Full Suspension Mountain Bicycle
Mountain bike riding provides riders with cardiovascular workouts. This is important because your body is able to heal faster after injuries and fight illnesses. If you are looking for a mountain bike for men and you are on a tight budget, try the Mongoose mountain bike.
This is a full suspension mountain bike that is designed with a lightweight and durable aluminum frame. It also features alloy rims with quick release front wheel that also boost its durability.
The bike provides you with effective braking power, thanks to its front and rear disc brakes. You can stop without trouble regardless of the weather to overcome obstacles along your way.
You will also enjoy the Shimano 24 speeds featuring trigger shifters that make it ideal for all types of riding. When it comes to assembly, you don't expect to experience any difficulty. If you follow the instructions carefully, you can put it together with ease.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: My weight is 200 pounds. Can I use this bike?
A: Yes you can.
Q: What is the braking system of this bike?
A: Disc brakes on both front and rear
Q: Is the seat comfortable for long ride?
A: Yes it is.
12. Diamondback Bicycles Outlook Complete Recreational Mountain Bike
If you are into recreational riding, then you need the best mountain bike that will make your riding experiences memorable. This is a good looking mountain bike that is lightweight and easy to use. The bike has 21-speed and it features Shimano thumb shift gear change and Shimano rear derailleur.
The bike is designed with a strong steel frame that makes it durable. This means that it can hold a high weight capacity. Additionally, its durable steel frame makes it durable without adding more weight on the bike. You can get the bike in two sizes; 18 inches and 20 inches depending on your preference.
This bike provides you with comfortable grips. Even when you are riding for an extended period, you can still feel comfortable. It features front and rear disc brakes that offer you with the needed stopping power.
Putting the bike together is pretty simple. Actually, you don't need any directions to do that. You just need to put on the front wheel, install the handlebars, attach the pedals and connect the brake lines.
Important Features
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: Is it a unisex bike?
A: Yes, it is.
Q: What is the tire size of this bike?
A: It has 27.5" tires.
Q: Does this bike come with a kickstand?
A: No, it does not. You have to purchase it separately.
13. 24" Mongoose Ledge 2.1 Boys' Mountain Bike
Looking for a quality mountain bike but you are on a budget? Well, there are many options to choose today but this doesn’t necessarily mean that all the bikes are designed the same. The 24" Mongoose Ledge 2.1 Boys' Mountain Bike is a nice options for kids who are into mountain biking.
This stylish and lightweight bike features a steel suspension frame with a suspension fork to offer young riders with more control on the road and smooth rides. The bike is lightweight meaning that kids will not have problems pushing it. It is also designed with alloy rims that are strong and durable.
With this affordable bike, you are not limited to visit any place. It has 21 speeds making it ideal to handle a wide range of terrains. So whether you are riding around the neighborhood or steep hills, you can get the best performance from the bike.
This has a padded seat which makes riders comfortable even for longer rides. Additionally, their safety is guaranteed with the linear pull brakes that offer a strong braking power. Changing from one gear to the other is also easy, thanks to the shifter 3-piece crank that provides smooth transition.
You will get the bike with most of the parts assembled. The remaining parts are easy to put together and it will take you less time to do the job.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: Does it come with a kickstand?
A: Yes, it does.
Q: Can I fold this bike?
A: No.
Q: Does it have hand brakes?
A: Yes, on the front and back.
14. Mongoose R2780 Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle
If you want a great bike that will handle rugged terrains, a mountain bike is the best option. What if you don’t have thousands of dollars to spend? Can you still get a great mountain bike under 300? This is why we are here to help you get a good value bike without spending too much money.
The Mongoose Impasse dual suspension bike is one of the affordable 29er that you can use to commute to work or ride for other activities. This is a durable bike with a full-suspension frame that provides both comfort and performance.
The suspension form works well to smoothen the bumps to provide you with smooth rides as well as increased control. Shifting and gearing is also improved in this bike.
It features 21 speed Shimano rear derailleur with SRAM twist shifters to make your work easier. When it comes to durability, this bike is well crafted with a strong yet lightweight aluminum frame.
It also features alloy wheels with a quick front release. Stopping power is also well catered with the included front and rear disc brakes. This bikes disassembled for shipping purposes so you will need to put together the parts. Assembly is easy and you just need some wrenches to assemble.
Important Features:
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
Q: I am 6'1", is this bike will ok for me?
A: Yes, it will.
Q: Can I ride this bike on flat streets?
A: It is perfect for all types of roads.
Q: Can it tackle bumpy areas well?
A: Yes, it can.
Q: Can I attach the rear rack to this bike?
A: Yes, you can.
Buying Guide - Mountain Bikes Under $300
Purchasing an affordable mountain bike can be tricky but if you have the right information, then you will not experience problems choosing the right one. Here are a few things that you need to look for when buying a mountain bike under 300.
Types Of Mountain Bikes:
First, you need to know that there are different types of mountain bikes available on the market. You need to pick the right mountain bike based on your budget, riding activity and capability among others. The following are the different types of mountain bikes you will find.
Wheel Size:
Another important thing you should check when buying a mountain bike is the wheel size. The size of the wheel determines how it will perform on different landscapes. The most common wheel sizes you will find are 26, 27.5 and 29 inches.
Frame Construction:
There are different materials that are used to make mountain bike frames. Most mountain bike frames are made of aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, steel, and titanium. Depending on your budget, you can choose the most ideal frame for your bike.
Suspension System:
When buying a mountain bike, you need to check the suspension. The main purpose of a suspension in a mountain bike is to absorb the terrain roughness. This provides riders with controlled and smooth rides.
There are different types of mountain bike suspensions that you should consider. They include full bike suspension, hardtail suspension, and rigid suspension.
Full bike suspension: This type of suspension offers shock absorption in both the rear and front. This reduces vibration, tension and you can get better traction and comfort. With this type of suspension, it is easier to handle bumpy, steep, and downhill climbing.
Hardtail bike suspension: This type of suspension means your bike’s rear doesn’t have a suspension. Your bike’s fork includes the suspension feature to protect you from vibration and bumps. Most cross-country bikes have this type of suspension and they are cheaper and need little maintenance.
Rigid suspension: This means there is no shock-absorbing mechanism on the rear and front part of your mountain bike. Bikes with this type of suspension also come at a lower price and need little maintenance.
Gearing Option:
You also need to determine the number of gears you need in your mountain bike. The gear numbers can range from 1-30. The higher the gear, the more strength, and speed will change in your mountain bike.
The number of gears you should pick for your mountain bike depends on the terrain. A bike with higher gears is ideal for downhill or steep terrain. If you mostly ride on flat or smooth terrains, then you can choose a bike with lower gears.
Brake System
Riding at high speed is great but your bike should also provide smooth stops. When it comes to the braking system, you can choose rim brakes or disc brakes.
Rim Brakes
The most common brake on many mountain bikes and other types of bikes is the rim brake. This type of brake features two brake pads attached to the wheel rim.
Rim brakes are affordable when you need to replace or repair the brake. Additionally, it is easier for you to tell when you need to replace the brake pads.
The downside of rim brakes is they wear out easily and the wheel rims also come in handy. Therefore, you need to replace the brake pads and the wheel rims at the same time.
Rim brakes also offer less braking power when riding on wet or muddy surfaces. You should press the brakes hard to achieve a higher stopping power.
Disc Brakes
These are types of brakes that grip the brake rotor on the wheel hub. There are two types of disc brakes you should consider for your bike; cable operated and hydraulic disc brakes.
Hydraulic disc brakes offer more stopping power than cable-operated disc brakes. Unlike rime brakes, disc brakes provide excellent stopping power under all conditions. It doesn’t matter if you are riding on a wet or dry surface, disc brakes have got your back.
Another benefit of disc brakes is you don’t need to strain your fingers too much when braking. You also only need to replace the rotor when maintaining the brakes.
The downside of disc brakes is that they need frequent inspection. You will also incur more costs replacing broken hydraulic disc brakes than in the rim brakes.
Other Consideration:
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Q: Can you get a good mountain bike for 300 dollars?
A: The answer is yes. There are lots of mountain bikes available under $300. You can choose from reputed brands like Merax, Schwinn, Vilano, Mongoose etc which makes affordable yet quality mountain bikes.
Q: Why are mountain bikes so expensive?
A: Some mountain bikes are expensive because they are made of high-quality components and of course technology. If you want to ride your mountain bike on trails, or rough terrain then you should invest in the expensive bike rather than choosing less expensive bikes.
Q: How much should I pay for a mountain bike?
A: Depends on your preferences. If you want to buy a decent mountain bike then you should invest minimum $1500 to way up to $3000. Certainly you can purchase bikes for less from non reputed brands if you want to use them for general purposes rather than going into rough terrain.
Q: Is it OK to ride a mountain bike on the road?
A: The simple answer is yes. You can easily ride your mountain bike on the street. Although mountain bikes are designed for trails and they won't perform as well as when you ride them on the road.
Q: What size mountain bike should I buy for my height?
A: For getting the right size mountain bike you should follow below measurements:
Rider Height (in)
4' 10" - 5' 2"
5' 3" - 5' 6"
5' 7" - 5' 10"
5' 11" - 6' 1"
Frame Size (in)
13" - 14"
15" - 16"
17" - 18"
19" - 20"
Q: Is it better to get a bigger or smaller mountain bike frame?
A: It depends on you. If you are tall and your arm is long then you should go for bigger frame as the reach to the handlebar from the seat post will be longer. Otherwise, get the smaller frame.
Q: Is it cheaper to build or buy a mountain bike?
A: Buying a mountain bike is cheaper than building your own mountain bike. Because each component will be expensive despite being shipping cost of new bike. Although building your own bike will allow you to make the bike exactly what you want from all of the components of your bike. These are the main advantage to building a mountain bike on your own. If you can afford it then go for building one.
Final Word:
If you were wondering how you will find a high-quality mountain bike without breaking your bank, then I believe the above bikes will suit your needs. My team and I selected only the best bikes under 300 from reputable manufacturers. The bikes are perfect for male and female riders and they are packed with great features that will boost your mountain biking experience. With any of these bikes, then you can be sure to get value for your money.
Hello Guys! I am John Reese, a professional biker and my hobby is biking! I have been biking for last 10 years and I love using bikes while outing as well. Based on my experiences with the different type of bikes (mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid bikes); I am sharing my opinion about various bikes so that a beginner can get started right away. Happy reading!