You could spend a huge amount of money on a mountain bike. The question is, the more you spend, the higher quality mountain bike you get? Honestly, the answer is truly depended.
You absolutely could own a great mountain bike with full of the most advanced functions for only $2000. However, how to find such a good deal is not easy.
Instead of having to learn about mountain bikes for hours on end, read the detailed review of the top 15 best mountain bikes under 2000 below and you could pick the most suitable one effortlessly. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Best Mountain Bikes Under 2000 Comparison Chart 2021
Before purchasing a mountain bike, you need to choose the most suitable one and compare it to other products. To save your time, you could read the following comparison chart of 15 best mountain bikes under 2000.
What Are The Best Mountain Bikes Under 2000 To Buy?
This list below includes a range of best mountain bikes under 2000 based on specific needs.
- Best Overall: Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Mountain Bikes
- Best Budget: Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bikes
- Best Full Suspension: Gravity 2021 FS Mountain Bikes
- Best for Beginners: Mongoose Impasse Mens Mountain Bikes
- Best Lightweight: SAVA 27.5” Mountain Bikes
- Best for Downhill: Marin Pine Mountain 2 Mountain Bikes
- Best Carbon: Santa Cruz Mountain Bikes
Top 15 Best Mountain Bikes Under 2000 Reviews In 2021
These best mountain bikes under 2000 in my top-list have their own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you should follow my detailed review below to have a complete overview of these items.
Best Overall: Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Mountain Bikes
The Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual Suspension Mountain Bike is one of the best mountain bikes under 2000 dollars for experienced bikers.
This bike features a full-suspension frame with a forgiving steel rear. That means this unit is truly solid, durable, and light in weight. Also, this frame could work as a shock absorber so you will have a smooth riding experience on the roughest road.
The front disc brake offers a great stopping power whenever you need it. Also, the 24-speed Shimano EF shifters will give you the incremental power and control for all-terrain. This bike is powerful enough to climb hills and go downhill. Setting up this unit is just a snap. It just takes less than twenty minutes to assemble this bike completely.
On the other hand, some consumers complained that they received the product without all its components. Additionally, the tires are also slippery and prone to a skid.
Pros
- Made of premium aluminum full suspension frame
- Front suspension fork equipped
- 24 gears of speed
- Multiple colors
- This bike could handle heavy weight riders
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- This bike is not suitable for trail as advertised
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | 43 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | Aluminum Full Suspension |
| Color | Red; Matte Blue; Red/Blue |
| Brand | Schwinn |
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Best for Beginners: Mongoose Impasse Mens Mountain Bikes
There are many reasons that make this Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike become one of the best mountain bikes under 2000 on the market.
Firstly, this model is considered the best mountain bike for beginners. The Mongoose mountain bike comes with the 29-inch wheels that are big volume to help you keep balance better on the unstable surfaces. Thus, if you are an entry-level rider, this bike is a safe choice for you.
The Mongoose Impasse mountain bike provides 21 speeds that are beneficial in all riding conditions and terrain. Also, you could ride at high speed without any worry thanks to the front and rear disc brakes. While the frame of this bike is made of high-quality aluminum, the wheels and brakes are made of alloy.
This bike is equipped with a front fork suspension and this feature is superior in every way to other mountain bikes, in this price range. Also, it could carry a substantial amount of weight so it’ really ideal for big-size riders.
Pros
- 21 speeds for varied terrains
- Disc brakes in the front and rear offer strong stopping power
- Large wheels and tires boost the stability
- Aesthetic design
- Great bike for beginners
Cons
- It needs to be changed the plastic parts
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | 48.5 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum mountain-style frame |
| Color | Charcoal |
| Brand | Mongoose |
Best Carbon: Santa Cruz Mountain Bikes
Santa Cruz is a well-known mountain bike manufacturer. You could see its products all around the world. Mountain bike from Santa Cruz is not only affordable but also high-quality. The Santa Cruz Nomad model is clear evidence.
This bike comes with the factory wheels that are large enough to perform as a shock-absorbing part. Also, these strong wheels could enhance stability when you ride on rough terrains.
If you prefer a comfortable mountain bike, this bike might be worth consideration. It is equipped with the premium VPP suspension and custom builds. Thanks to these great features, this bike could roll over the bumps or rocks almost smoothly.
The only thing that I don’t like is that this bike just has a single speed. At this price, it needs to have more gears of speed.
Pros
- High-quality and precise factory wheels
- Offers smooth riding experience with the VPP suspension
- 5-year warranty included
- Lightweight
Cons
- It doesn’t have many reviews
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | 32.7 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | Carbon |
| Color | Blue |
| Brand | Santa Cruz Bicycles |
Best Full Suspension: Gravity 2021 FS Mountain Bikes
Gravity 2021 FS Mountain Bikes are great options when you prefer the best full suspension mountain bike under $1500 or an ideal mountain bike for entry-level.
This full-suspension mountain bike was released in 2018 and received many positive reviews from consumers. It’s rated 4.1/5.0 on Amazon – a high number to make it worth consideration.
You will love this bike on the first side due to its beautiful design. With the glossy black finish and subtle details, this bike is really cool and aesthetic. You might not see other mountain bikes at the same price range that have such a pretty appearance like this Gravity model.
It is equipped with the 24-speed drivetrain that is powerful enough to climb hills effortlessly. Also, if you want fast speed, this unit will absolutely satisfy you. Along with this are the Shimano shifters that are easy to control and change the speed.
Pros
- Durable aluminum frame
- Comes in a wide range of sizes
- Front and rear adjustable suspension
- Tektro Novela disc brakes included
- 24 gears of speed
Cons
- The full suspension is a waste of space
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | 35 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum |
| Color | Black |
| Brand | Gravity |
Ghost MTB Mountain Bikes
Ghost is a German mountain bike manufacturer and not everyone knows about this brand. The ghost was established in 1993 with the first bike in Germany. Today, Ghost is growing rapidly and improving its products. So far, Ghost is constantly growing and improving the quality of their products to become a global brand.
Ghost MTB Full Suspension Bike AMR is one of the most outstanding models of this brand. Also, this bike is considered the best mountain bike under $3000 in my top-list.
It comes with a high-quality actinium frame which is truly lightweight. the total weight of this bike is just about 12 pounds. Thus, everyone could handle it effortlessly. Moreover, the actinium component also makes this bike strong and durable.
Pros
- Full suspension frame and suspension fork offer smooth rides
- Beautiful design
- It’s fast
Cons
- It has no review on Amazon
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | 12.6 kg |
| Frame Style | Actinum |
| Color | Grey/Black |
| Brand | Ghost |
Best Budget: Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bikes
Its low-price tag might not be relevant to its high quality. You will get the best mountain bike under 2000 with the Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike. This bike is also one of the best mountain bikes under 2000 hardtail that you could find on the market.
The 29er hardtail frame is the highlight feature of this Vilano mountain bike. Though it might not as high-quality as the high-end mountain bikes, this frame is strong, light in weight, and durable enough to get the job done.
If you prefer a versatile mountain bike, this bike is an ideal pick. Thanks to the suspension fork with the lockout, you could ride this bike for both commuting purposes, daily rides, and off-road cycling at the weekends.
You will love how easy this bike changes the gears of speed and with 24 speeds available, you could handle a wide range of terrains effortlessly.
Even though this might not be an excellent quality mountain bike, it’s still a great option for riders who want to start at entry-level.
Pros
- It comes with the mechanical disc brakes
- Suspension fork for reliable and responsive rides
- Budget friendly
- 24 speeds included
Cons
- Some components need to be replaced
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | 41 pounds |
| Frame Style | Hardtail frame |
| Color | Black |
| Brand | Vilano |
Diamondback Overdrive Mountain Bikes
If you are looking for a big volume wheel mountain bike, the Diamondback Overdrive Mountain Bikes are ideal purchases. They are also budget-friendly and the best hardtail mountain bikes under 00.
They come in two sizes of wheels that you could choose from are 27.5-inch and 29-inch. With the larger wheels and tires, you could keep balance easier and make your rides safer on unstable surfaces and off-road.
These Overdrive mountain bikes feature the mechanical disc brakes. This type of brakes might not be the best type on the market but it still offers great stopping power and ease of control.
The hand-built aluminum alloy frame makes this bike sophisticated and sleek. Also, this frame is really strong and durable for long uses.
Pros
- 29-inch wheels offer extra stability
- This bike is great for racing and professional rides
- Aesthetic appearance
- 24 gears of speeds
- Lightweight
Cons
- Narrow handlebar might not comfortable
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | 32.2 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | 45 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum alloy hardtail |
| Color | Blue; Red |
| Brand | Diamondback Bicycles |
Schwinn Bonafide Mens Mountain Bikes
Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike is another model from Schwinn that I highly recommend for you. You will get many benefits from this great mountain bike.
Firstly, like almost other same-level mountain bikes, this unit comes with a high-quality frame construction which is made of durable, lightweight aluminum and equipped with perfect geometry.
In addition, this mountain bike has a suspension fork so it could roll over large obstacles almost smoothly. This feature also allows Schwinn Bonafide mountain bike to do the best performance on a wide range of terrains.
This bike is more than 80% assembled so with just some simple steps, you will has a solid mountain bike. Also, this model is backed by the 5-year warranty so you don’t need to worry about the durability.
Pros
- Aluminum frame and suspension fork are strong and durable
- 24-speed Shimano EZ Fire shifters for ease of speed changing
- Mechanical disc brakes included
- Pre-assembled
- Lightweight
- 5-year warranty included
Cons
- Some parts are low-quality
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | 71 x 26 x 44 inches |
| Weight | 39 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | 43.9 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum |
| Color | Matte Black/Red |
| Brand | Schwinn |
Merax 26″ Mountain Bikes
One of the best mountain bikes under 1000 that I want to review is the Merax 26” Mountain Bike.
You will be surprised when a cheap mountain bike like Merax has an extremely beautiful and luxurious design. It looks very attractive and “sexy” with a sleek appearance and perfect color combination. You will have two color options that are black combined red and blue combined orange.
This bike comes with a precise 26-inch frame size, which is suitable for almost riders. Moreover, the frame is made of high-grade aluminum material which makes this bike light in weight and strong enough to roll over rough surfaces.
You need to assemble this unit before the first ride but don’t worry about that because this process is just a snap. Follow the instruction included and you will have a solid mountain bike in less than 20 minutes.
Pros
- 24 gears of speed included
- Lightweight frame
- Suspension fork is responsive and efficient
- Disc brakes offer precise stopping power
- It could carry large weight load
- 1-year guarantee included
- Cool design
Cons
- The saddle is a little bit uncomfortable
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | 54 x 29 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 40 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | 55 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum |
| Color | Black/Red; Blue/Orange |
| Brand | Merax |
Diamondback Catch 1 Mountain Bikes
If you are looking for some big-wheel mountain bikes, this Diamondback Catch 1 Mountain Bike might be an excellent option. Although this model is not as common as the Overdrive version, it still offers great features that match your riding needs.
It features 29-inch wheels that are large enough to go through rocks or bumps easily. Moreover, these wheels could work as shock-absorbing parts so your rides will be smoother and more comfortable.
With the hydraulic disc brakes – the most modern type of brakes available on the market, this Diamondback mountain bike allows you to ride at high speed with 100% safety. It offers a great stopping power so you could entirely control your movement.
Pros
- Hydraulic brakes provide great stopping power
- Big volume tires for extra stability and comfort when riding on rough surfaces
- Lightweight
- 22-speed drivetrain
Cons
- It doesn’t get many reviews from consumers
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | 33.5 pounds |
| Shipping Weight | 55.6 pounds |
| Frame Style | Aluminum |
| Color | Silver |
| Brand | Diamondback Bicycles |
Best Lightweight: SAVA 27.5” Mountain Bikes
SAVA 27.5” Mountain Bike is one of the best lightweight mountain bikes that you could find on the market.
The total weight of this bike is just 26.5 pounds while other same range bikes are over 30 pounds. The reason is that this bike is made of a high-quality carbon frame. Carbon is known as the lightest material for a mountain bike.
With 30 gears of speed equipped, this bike is the one that offers the widest range of speed in my top-list. Thus, you could go uphill or downhill easily at the same speed.
Moreover, you will never lose your control, even at high speed due to the hydraulic disc brakes. You will get a precise stopping power in all riding conditions.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- High-quality carbon frame
- 30-speed drivetrain
- Hydraulic disc brakes
Cons
- Made in China
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | 26.5 pounds |
| Frame Style | Carbon |
| Color | Black |
| Brand | SAVA |
Trek Pro Caliber 6 Mountain Bikes
Trek Bikes is a well-known mountain bike brand. You could see its products all around the world. Trek mountain bikes are always received many compliments from both experts and riders who just love exploring mountains.
Trek Pro Caliber 6 Mountain Bike is one of the best mountain bikes under 2000 from this brand. It comes with many effective features to make your rides comfortable and enjoyable.
This bike is manufactured in many sizes that could match your body easily. You just need to follow the size chart and pick the most suitable one. The accurate frame size will help you have the most comfortable position when riding in a long time.
It’s made of the “Alpha Platinum” aluminum frame, which is lighter in weight and more durable than normal aluminum. Along with this are attractive design and glossy black finish which make this bike stand out anywhere you go.
Pros
- Accurate frame sizes for a wide range of riders
- Beautiful design
- IsoSpeed decoupler included
- Could ride smooth on rough surfaces
- Lifetime warranty for the frame
Cons
- The tires are quite slow
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | 12.42 kg |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | “Alpha Platinum” aluminum alloy |
| Color | Matte Black |
| Brand | Trek |
Best for Downhill: Marin Pine Mountain 2 Mountain Bikes
The Marin Pine Mountain 2 Mountain Bike is also one of the best large-wheel mountain bikes that you could choose from my top-list.
This mountain bike comes with the 29-inch wheels that offer the best stability. Also, when you ride on bumpy terrains or off-road, these wheels will help you keep balance better.
The 12-speed drivetrain is ideal for beginners and fast enough for people who love speed. However, I think this bike is not powerful enough to climb hills. When you go uphill, it rides quite slowly.
Pros
- 29-inch wheels boost the stability and durability
- Shimano MT502 hydraulic disc brakes for great stopping power
- Suitable for trail, bike-packing, and adventure
- 1×12 speed drivetrain
- Comes in a wide range of frame sizes
Cons
- It doesn’t include the rear shock and front derailleur
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | Steel frame |
| Color | White |
| Brand | Marin |
Niner Air 9 NX Mountain Bikes
The next best mountain bike under 2000 that comes in my review is the Niner Air 9 NX Mountain Bike. Even though this bike is no longer released by the manufacturer, it’s still received many positive feedbacks from customers.
This mountain bike is equipped with a 12-speed drivetrain which is powerful enough to go uphill and downhill effortlessly. The suspension fork offers a smooth and reliable riding experience.
Moreover, high-quality hydraulic disc brakes will give you a powerful stopping power. You could control the speed depending on your riding needs or stop your bike almost immediately in any condition.
Pros
- High-quality fork for smoother rides
- 12-speed drivetrain included
- Hydraulic disc brakes for more safety
- Lightweight and durable aluminum frame
Cons
- It is discontinued by the manufacturer
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | Hydroformed and welded aluminum |
| Color | Not available |
| Brand | Niner |
Salsa Timberjack Mountain Bikes
Salsa Timberjack Mountain Bike is all you need for the best mountain bike under 2000 available on the market.
You will be surprised when at this affordable price tag, you could own a great mountain bikes with on-top features.
Firstly, 130 millimeters fork travel is really efficient and responsive. Along with this are large volume wheels offering extra stability on any terrain.
Secondly, it comes with the standard hydraulic disc brakes that help you have total control with the speed. Also, you will get the best stopping power with this beneficial feature.
The only thing that I don’t like about this product is the weight. It is quite heavier than other mountain bikes at the same price range.
Pros
- 130 millimeters fork travel
- 29-inch wheels offer the best balance
- 12 gears of speed
- Hydraulic disc brakes for better control
Cons
- It’s a little bit heavier than other competitors
Product Specs
| Item Dimensions | Not available |
| Weight | Not available |
| Shipping Weight | Not available |
| Frame Style | Aluminum frame |
| Color | Blue |
| Brand | Salsa |
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Mountain Bikes Under 2000 In 2021
Budget
There are many kinds of mountain bikes under $2000 that you could purchase. Depending on your budget, you will get the most suitable one.
If you are looking for some mountain bikes under $500 which is the cheapest type, you will get the acceptable quality with some features like mechanical brakes, normal aluminum frame.
In case you want more functionality, the mountain bikes between $1000 and $1500 are the way you go. These bikes will be equipped with more effective features such as a higher-quality material frame, disc brakes, front suspension.
The best choice you could pick is a mountain bike for under $2000. At this price, your bike will come with more excellent features like full suspension, hydraulic braking system, large tires, and wheels.
Frame Style
In general, the best mountain bikes under $2000 comes with the aluminum frame, carbon frame, or steel frame. The frame materials will affect the durability and how your bike works.
The aluminum frame is the most common type of mountain bike frame. This material is light in weight and durable enough for long-term uses.
The steel frame is less popular and it’s not my cup of tea. Mountain bikes coming with steel frames are generally heavier than the aluminum frame mountain bikes. However, these bikes will be stronger.
The carbon frame is the highest quality material. Also, the carbon mountain bike will be more expensive than aluminum and steel frame bikes. This material is very lightweight, durable, and more responsive on rough surfaces.
Brakes
Stopping power is always a serious consideration, especially with mountain bikes. It will be really dangerous if you ride on unstable terrain, trails, or off-road with and inefficient braking system.
You could choose from two types of brakes that are mechanical brakes and hydraulic disc brakes. While hydraulic disc brakes are more reliable and responsive, the mechanical disc brakes are easier to control and more affordable.
FAQs
What is a good cheap mountain bike?
My picks are:
- Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Mountain Bikes – Best Overall
- Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bikes – Best for the money
- Gravity 2020 FS Mountain Bikes – Best full suspension
How much is a good full suspension mountain bike?
It’s about $2000 and up. Cheaper mountain bikes will just have front suspension or fork suspension. If they come with the full suspension, it might not be high-quality.
Are Trek or Giant bikes better?
In general, Giant bikes are better. If you purchase a Giant bike and a Trek bike at the same price tag, Giant bike will come with better quality and components.
What are the top 10 mountain bike brands?
My options are:
- Diamondback Bicycles
- Santa Cruz
- Trek Bikes
- Schwinn
- Cannondale
- Salsa Cycles
- Giant Bikes
- Metrax
- Specialized
- Niner
Can I use mountain bike on road?
Yes, you can. However, mountain bikes will be slower and quite more difficult to ride on pavement than road bikes.