I’ve tested over 50 MTB models in the last 6 years and finally come up with these 17 best mountain bikes under 1000 dollars in 2021. They are carefully picked for different uses and I’ve also pointed out which one is suitable for who.
If your tight budget is under $1000 but you want to have a good mountain bike for years of abuse, don’t overlook this article.
Top 17 Best Mountain Bikes Under 1000 Reviews In 2021
Kona Blast Hardtail Mountain Bikes
Kona Bike Company has been an extremely well-known brand in the mountain bike realm. And with the 2013 version, once again, they don’t disappoint their customers, especially those who are in need of an MTB under 1000 dollars.
This is a versatile and ultra-durable mountain bike that impressed me a lot. It has a hardtail system frame combined with RockShox XC 32 TK suspension fork, making it exceptionally strong and sturdy.
The Shimano Triple Alivio derailleur and Shimano Alivio KMC chainset, meanwhile, are key for its versatility.
This perfect combo allows the mountain bike to conquer every trail with the least effort and reliability to handle almost anything thrown to the cycler during their rides.
For souped-up comfort, it is added with WTB Volt Sport saddle
Pros
- Sturdy and strong – hardtail system frame combined with RockShox XC 32 TK suspension fork
- Versatile – Shimano Triple Alivio derailleur and Shimano Alivio KMC chainset
- Comfort – WTB Volt Sport saddle
Cons
- Not many color options
Product Specs
| Frame | Hardtail |
| Fork | RockShox XC 32 TK |
| Brakes | Front brakes: Shimano hydraulic 180mm disc brake
Rear brakes: Shimano hydraulic disc brake |
| Highlight features | hardtail system frame combined with RockShox XC 32 TK suspension fork; Shimano Triple Alivio derailleur and Shimano Alivio KMC chainset; WTB Volt Sport saddle |
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Schwinn S29 Men’s Mountain Bikes
If you’re in the market for an advanced mountain bike under $750, the Schwinn S29 is a fantastic choice.
No matter which terrains lead you, it always supplies you with the right gear to conquer them, featuring the Shimano 7-speed freewheel and Schwinn alloy triple cranks. It also gives you smooth shifts for multiple uses.
I love how steady it is when riding at high speeds, such as downhills, as well as the flawlessly smooth experience on bumpy terrains.
That all thanks to the 2.1-inch wide knobby mountain tires, ultra-wide double-wall alloy rims, and dual mechanical disc brakes.
Overall, with the Schwinn S29 Men’s Mountain Bike, you can rest the heart to enjoy the freedom of riding.
Pros
- Provide the right gear for all trails – the Shimano 7-speed freewheel and Schwinn alloy triple cranks
- Give smooth riding experience – 2.1-inch wide knobby mountain tires, ultra-wide double-wall alloy rims, and dual mechanical disc brakes
- Smooth shifts – 21-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters
Cons
- The brake of the front forks could be better
Product Specs
| Wheels | strong alloy 29-inch wheels |
| Frame | 18-inch/medium frame |
| Fork | a front suspension fork and rear shock |
| Brakes | Front and rear mechanical disc brakes |
| Highlight features | the Shimano 7-speed freewheel and Schwinn alloy triple cranks; 2.1-inch wide knobby mountain tires; 21-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters |
Diamondback Hook Mountain Bikes
The Diamondback Hook is specifically designed to keep you spinning up and down the hills, even the steepest descents while on tight trails, it becomes a deft and precise “animal”.
Compared to other counterparts, this mountain bike stands out for its exceptional maneuverability.
It is short in the back, long in the front, and importantly, this model inherits the biggest selling point from its well-heeled Line and Sync’s siblings – the low-slung, modern frame.
It also has 27.5” wheels, an SRAM X3 1×8-speed drivetrain, and a 120mm SR Suntour fork, making it an excellent mountain bike for all-day suffer fests.
Another bonus is the model features compatibility with internally routed dropper posts.
Pros
- Great maneuverability – 27.5” wheels & low-slung, modern frame
- Soak up the chunder – 120mm SR Suntour fork & internally routed dropper posts
Cons
- Wish the seat was more comfortable
Product Specs
| Frame | 22-inch frame |
| Fork | bold suspension fork |
| Brakes | alloy linear-pull brakes |
| Highlight features | 27.5” wheels & low-slung, modern frame; 120mm SR Suntour fork & internally routed dropper posts |
Royce Union RTT Men’s Mountain Bikes
Adventuring has never felt this good with the Royce Union RTT.
It emphasizes 21-speed ultra-smooth Shimano shifting and alloy linear-pull brakes for superior stopping power, and a heavy-duty aluminum frame. This thoughtful construction allows the adventurer to get more confidence to tackle any terrain.
I also appreciate the various size options to ensure it can fit the most to the rider’s height.
Along with that is an adjustable saddle that you can fix its angle and height for the highest comfort.
There are more other practical improvements I’ve found in this wonderful mountain bike, such as the detachable rear derailleur guard, and the index finger and thumb trigger gear changes.
Besides, Royce also provides all the tools needed for easy assembly.
Pros
- Offer superior stopping power – 21-speed ultra-smooth Shimano shifting and alloy linear-pull brakes
- Give perfect fit to your height – various size options & an adjustable saddle
- Provide extra protection & safety – the detachable rear derailleur guard, and the index finger and thumb trigger gear changes
- Easy to assemble – provide all the tools needed
Cons
- The post-mount could be more quality
Product Specs
| Frame | Lightweight aluminum frame |
| Fork | Steel suspension fork |
| Brakes | Lightweight alloy linear-pull brakes |
| Highlight features | 21-speed ultra-smooth Shimano shifting and alloy linear-pull brakes; various size options & an adjustable saddle; the detachable rear derailleur guard, and the index finger and thumb trigger gear changes; provide all the tools needed |
Smayer Mountain Bikes
The Smayer Mountain Bike is my recommendation for tall riders within 5’8“-6’2”.
Making it outstanding is the oversized frame with smooth welding 19” size and 6061 double-butted alloys for superior endurance. I also find its saddle to be a bit wider and more supportive than usual, giving more comfort to the rider.
The wheels are another notable component. They are 29” in size with 3-spoke magnesium alloy for durability and stability, resulting in ease of control.
If you’re wondering about its safety, rest assured, this MTB is equipped with reliable front and rear brakes and 21-speed Shimano gears.
Besides, included in the packages are two free, workable pedals.
Pros Cons Product Specs At the price range under $500, you hardly find anything better than the XiongBuy Mountain Bike, especially if you’re a big rider. It is measured by 59” x 9.8” x (23” to 27.5”), highlighting ultra-large 26” tires, three-knife wheels, high carbon steel frame, and 31.8 bold front forks. What I’m trying to point out is its enhanced durability. In fact, the recommended weight capacity for this mountain bike is nearly 200 pounds. According to its seat design, saddle adjustments, and frame size, I also suggest it for people within 160 to 180 centimeters tall. The 26-inch 6-spoke stylish rim is another big plus I’d like to talk about. Compared to others at the same price range, this rim design is much thicker, feels more durable, and in reality, it gives firmer and safer riding experience. Pros Cons Product Specs The Diamondback Recoil 29er is our top choice for female adventurers, based on its specialized construction and the hydroformed aluminum frame to fit a woman’s proportion. On it, you’ll get the most out of every situation. The geometry construction, including big knobby tires, dual disc brakes, and 80mm sun tour XCT fork, gives you a perfectly balanced feel. Meanwhile, the 4” rear suspension allows you to rock on the trail and take the edge off roots. To smoothen the uneven trails as well as increasing the bike’s durability, Diamondback also adds sealed cartridge bearings and an optimized single pivot. As a result, it is not only supportive but also comfortable during the ride. Pros Cons Product Specs Another worth-considering MTB option for women – the Diamondback Bicycles Lux. The ultra-large 27.5” wheels and 2.35” tires are added for quick handling while its sleek aluminum frame with women’s-specific fit gives lots of stand-over clearance for better maneuverability. It is praised the most for unrivaled speed, control, and traction (even on the steepest climbs). It is a big thank you to the 3×8 speed Shimano drivetrain with multiple gears and the Tektro mechanical disc brakes. Whether that is letting loose on the downhill’s, winding through twisty single-track, or climbing a steep trail, this MTB all stays calm and collected. Above all, it is very lightweight so controlling or lifting it up isn’t a hard task. Pros Cons Product Specs Emphasizing a max load of 330 pounds, along with 26” lightweight aluminum frame, high-performance front suspension fork, and steel chain, it’s no doubt when Merax 26″ Mountain Bike is the best selection for heavy riders in this list. It’s also designed to meet all needs of any entry-level rider who is at a tight budget. It features front and rear disc brakes, Shimano RD-TY300 rear derailleur, Shimano FD-TY500 front derailleur, and EF500-3/8, 24-Speed shifter. The biggest selling point is its front suspension fork design with improved control and stability to ride over bumps more smoothly. It’s also ideal for fluid riding as well. Another worth-mentioning thing is the bike comes with a 1-year warranty. Pros Cons Product Specs Schwinn High Timber is a great mountain bike for the value. It is straightforward to assemble, easy to control, and ride, and durable. The 7 speed Shimano shifter and 24” frame size are great for both teenagers and adults to ride on a variety of terrain, off-road, or work on doing some cardio. Changing gear is also very easy. The bike is somewhat on a heavy side but if you prefer a stable model for better control on rough terrains, you’re going to love it. It holds its ground beautifully on some difficult patches of land with lots of little rocks and sand. Regardless, you have plenty of mounting area for a rear rack, and if needed a front rack also. In a nutshell, Schwinn truly does a great job on this MTB. Pros Cons Product Specs We highly recommend the Huffy Hardtail for teenagers within 12 to 19 years old as a mid-level MTB. The handlebars and seat height are adjustable to ensure the bike can grow with its rider. The recommended height is 58 to 70 inches. Regardless, this mountain bike is very lightweight yet sturdy, making pedaling so much easier, even in uneven and rocky terrains. The lightness also allows the bike to be suitable for street use, especially for the rider just learning to use all the gears. The oversized tires are a great addition to improve control and stability while maximizing traction. Installation isn’t a thing as there is an assembly tutorial video and actually, the remaining assembly tasks for you are quite simple. All you need to do is setting up the pedals, seat, handlebar, and front wheels. Pros Cons Product Specs For those who want to have a mountain bike with superior controllability and safety, they’ll fall for this MKLEKYY’s design. Aside from front and rear double disc brakes, it is built with a high-carbon steel frame with delicate welding technology, 21-speed gear, and especially all-terrain wheels. Why “all-terrain”? Because they’re durable with a 26” magnesium alloy rims, 2-spoke design, and added with anti-skid function. No matter that is hilly, snow, beach, city, trail, road, wasteland, or mountain, this “beast” can handle all. To optimize their performance, these wheels are also equipped with splash protection to use on wet surfaces with no ease of slipping. Ah, did I tell that it was unisex? Pros Cons Product Specs Diamondback Atroz 2 meets all of my requirements when it comes to a perfect trail bike: fat, controllable tires, full suspensions, and comfort. It is an excellent alternative for those people who don’t find the hardtail comfy enough for long-hour adventures. That said, it is very strong, sturdy, and heavy-duty that can ride you through rocks and roots with no problem. I particularly like the WTB Vigilante tires combined with ultra-large 27.5” wheels for unbearable maneuverability over all terrains. And I also love the chain guide which holds securely the chain in place even when the bike goes over a rowdy trail. Moreover, it is backed by a 5-year warranty, a 1-year warranty on the swing arm, and there are pedals included. What else to ask? Pros Cons Product Specs At this price point, you hardly beat the Raleigh Tekoa when finding the best MTB under $1000 for single-track trails. If I was allowed to use only one word to describe it, it would be “fast”. Yes, super-fast. It makes obstacles disappear and get you out in the woods like a breeze, all thanks to the super-large 29” tires. For extra smooth riding experience, the Suntour XCT 29″ fork pairing with Weinmann 29″ U28 double wall wide rims comes in handy. The added Tektro Auriga Hydraulic disc brakes stop the bike whenever you want. In other words, they control exceptionally well the pulling back on the reigns, regardless of the weather condition. Pros Cons Product Specs Whether it’s a country lane, road, or mountain trail, rest the heart that this grunchy NENGGE Mountain Bike is able to conquer all. It makes off-road riding pleasure due to the new-design dual suspension, enhancing its durability and safety to a higher level. The shock-absorption front fork and fatty tires, on the other hand, are key for the bike’s decent shock absorption ability. This flawless combination minimizes impacts and bumps during the ride over tough trails, making your riding experience smoother and comfier. The biggest selling point is it comes with four options of gear types – 7, 21, 24, and 27 speeds, to choose from for specific needs. Pros Cons Product Specs Another worth-mentioning fat bike that I’d like to mention is Diamondback El OSO Uno. As fun as its looking, these 26” by 4” knobby tires can hold up well against various terrains, such as snow, sand, mud, and other soft surfaces, and offer unrivaled traction to never cause you to slip. These strong tires, combined with heavy-duty steel frame and fork, have made the bike itself superbly durable that not only carry you but also your gear with no issues. The Tektro Novella mechanical disc brakes, on the other hand, are a big addition to provide a safe yet comfortable stopping power whenever in need. And, the Shimano Acera 2×9 drivetrain gives you not just low gearing but also precise shifting. As a small yet meaningful bonus, pedals are included for free. Pros Cons Product Specs Last but not least, I’d like to introduce to you this wonderful MTB from Mongoose – a long-standing bicycle manufacturer in the industry since 1974. And, the Mongoose Impasse Men’s is one of their best sellers. It features dual alloy brakes and wheels with a fast-release front. The bike also has SRAM twist shifters and 21 speed Shimano rear derailleur so shifting gears isn’t a real matter, even if you’re a beginner. To ride over roots, cracks, and bumps with smoothness and control, it is added with an element suspension fork. Like most other counterparts here, its frame is made of high-grade aluminum for decent performance, and extra comfort. Pros Cons Product Specs This is always the first and foremost element when considering a mountain bike, regardless of your budget. And, another thing to keep in mind is the size charts of various bike brands are different. That means an MTB in size S of brand A is probably not in the same measurement as brand B’s. Therefore, instead of looking at those characters S, M, L, and XL, I recommend finding manufacturers’ own size charts where you’ll get the suggested height range for each size provided. Below are some general guidelines: (inches) (for unisex or men’s MTBs) (for women’s MTBs) If not, consider these two measurements: I recommend looking for those MTBs featuring adjustable seat tube and handlebars for the best fit. There are six things to consider when it comes to MTB tires, including their construction & volume, rim width, riding style, terrain, and rider’s weight. First is the tire construction and volume! A basic rule of thumb is the lower the TPI (threads per inch), the less supple the casing. If you intend to choose these lower tire pressure, remember to pair them with tubeless/UST tires and stiffer, reinforced sidewalls. This combination will allow the tires to achieve the same performance as those with thinner, suppler casings. The tire volume, on the other hand, will figure out how a given pressure feels. For instance, a 660x96mm tire with 35psi feels rock more solid to the touch than a 700x25mm model with 35psi. About the rims, I suggest going for expanded width because they allow you to ride lower pressures without the tire folding beneath you, meaning that they support your weight better. The relation between tires and rider weight is very close. For example, riding an MTB featuring 26 x 2.25in tires and 35psi, a 250-pound person will feel that pressure too low while a 145-pound one might feel it is too hard, leading to lack of traction. Each type has its pros and cons. The biggest advantage of a full-suspension MTB is the comfort as it effectively soaks up jarring bumps during the ride. As a result, it eliminates body fatigue under long adventures, allowing you to ride faster. However, the added manufacturer complication of full suspension, linkage, bearings, and shock all cost extra money. Not to say that it leads to complex maintenance. For those riders who don’t outweigh comfort by the expense and maintenance, that’s when the hardtail comes into place. What’s the best hardtail mountain bike for under 1000? My recommendations are: How much should I spend on a decent mountain bike? From $400 to $5000+ Which mountain bike brand is the best? Diamondback, Royce Union, Schwinn, Kona, Raleigh, etc. Is 27.5 better than 29er? Not on all aspects. The 27.5” is better in terms of fast acceleration while the 29er is more ideal for longer rides as it requires less effort to keep the momentum, especially once it gets the top speed. Should I buy a new or used mountain bike? I’d recommend going for a new mountain bike. The reason is in this realm, the price ranges are vast, from $100-something to $5000+, and one thing for sure, there are always good choices at a good deal for your targeted budget. Not to say that buying a used MTB means you’re backed by no warranty from the manufacturer or seller. I confidently assure you that this review is one of the most thorough and comprehensive available. The reason is it’s the result of my meticulous research, thoughtful selection, and heavy testing of each model. The best mountain bike under $1000 for you depends on what you are finding in an MTB and where intendedly to use it. That’s all for this article. Have fun mountain riding!
Wheels
29 Inches 3 Spoke Magnesium Alloy Wheels
Frame
6061 double-butted alloy smooth welding 19 Inches frame
Brakes
Dual Disc brake
Highlight features
The recommended height for 5’8“-6’2”; wider and more supportive saddle and 29” wheels;
XiongBuy Mountain Bikes
Wheels
Magnesium Wheel
Frame
high carbon steel
Fork
31.8 bold front fork
Brakes
Tolan disc brake / MTB brake lever
Highlight features
high carbon steel frame, 31.8 bold front forks, and 26-inch 6-spoke stylish rim; measured by 59” x 9.8” x (23” to 27.5”), weight capacity of 200 pounds, & ultra-large 26” tires
Diamondback Recoil 29er Mountain Bikes
Wheels
29” wheels
Frame
Hand-built 4-inch travel 6061 T-6 aluminum alloy full-suspension 29er frame
Fork
SR Suntour XCT suspension fork
Brakes
preload adjust, disc brakes
Highlight features
come with pre-assembled; customized hydroformed aluminum frame; big knobby tires, dual disc brakes, and 80mm sun tour XCT fork; sealed cartridge bearings and optimized single pivot
Diamondback Lux Women’s Hardtail Mountain Bikes
Wheels
27. 5” wheels
Frame
Lightweight aluminum frame with women’s-specific fit
Fork
Sr Suntour XCT 80mm suspension fork
Brakes
Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes
Highlight features
Merax 26″ Mountain Bikes
Wheels
Kenda 26” x 1.95 tire
Frame
26” lightweight aluminum frame
Fork
Front suspension forks
Brakes
Dual disc brakes
Highlight features
a max load of 330 pounds, along with 26” lightweight aluminum frame, high-performance front suspension fork, and steel chain; front suspension fork design; backed by a 1-year warranty
Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bikes
Wheels
alloy rims wheels
Frame
Schwinn steel mountain-style frame
Fork
Schwinn suspension fork
Brakes
The front and rear alloy linear-pull brakes
Highlight features
Durable Schwinn alloy crank; 7-speed Shimano twist shifters; Schwinn suspension fork
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bikes
Wheels
24 Inch Wheels
Frame
16.75 Inch Frame
Fork
suspension fork
Brakes
Alloy linear-pull brakes
Highlight features
recommended height is 58 to 70 inches; oversized tires; provide an assembly tutorial video
MKLEKYY Mountain Bikes
Wheels
All-terrain knobby mountain tires
Frame
Solid high carbon steel frame
Fork
31.8 bold front fork
Brakes
Tolan disc brake/MTB brake lever
Highlight features
front and rear double disc brakes, high-carbon steel frame with delicate welding technology; all-terrain wheels; splash protection
Diamondback Atroz 2 Mountain Bikes
Wheels
27.5-inch wheels
Frame
Aluminum frame
Fork
SR Suntour XCM 120mm travel fork
Brakes
Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
Highlight features
the WTB Vigilante tires combined with ultra-large 27.5” wheels; SR Suntour XCM 120mm travel fork; SR Suntour Raidon R rear shock & Shimano Acera 1×9 speed drivetrain
Raleigh Tekoa Mountain Bikes
Wheels
29 x 2.2-inch tires
Frame
lightweight AL-6061 custom-butted aluminum frame
Fork
29 inch 100mm fork
Brakes
Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc brakes
Highlight features
super-large 29” tires; the Suntour XCT 29″ fork pairing with Weinmann 29″ U28 double wall wide rims; Tektro Auriga Hydraulic disc brakes
NENGGE Mountain Bikes
Wheels
26 Inch Fat Tire
Frame
high carbon steel frame
Fork
Suspension Fork
Brakes
dual disc brake system
Highlight features
new-design dual-suspension; shock-absorption front fork and fatty tires; Various options of gear types to choose from
Diamondback El OSO Uno Mountain Bikes
Wheels
26″X4″ knobby tires
Frame
Steel frame
Fork
Steel fork
Brakes
Tektro Novella mechanical disc brakes
Highlight features
26” by 4” knobby tires; heavy-duty steel frame and fork; Tektro Novella mechanical disc brakes; Shimano Acera 2×9 drivetrain
Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bikes
Wheels
29-inch Wheels
Frame
18-inch Frame
Fork
Element suspension fork
Brakes
Disc Brakes
Highlight features
SRAM twist shifters and 21 speed Shimano rear derailleur; element suspension fork
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Mountain Bikes Under 1000 In 2021
Bike size
Bike Frame
Rider’s Height Suggested
Rider’s Height Suggested
13-14
5ft – 5ft 4in
4ft 10in – 5ft 2in
15-16
5ft 5in – 5ft 7in
5ft 3in – 5ft 6in
17-18
5ft 8in – 5ft 10in
5ft 7in – 5ft 10in
19-20
5ft 11in – 6ft 1in
5ft 11in – 6ft 1in
21-22
> 6ft 1in
> 6ft 1in
Tires
Hardtail or full suspension
FAQs
Conclusion