$500 is not a huge amount of money, especially for a mountain bike.
Most entry-level mountain bikers find it reasonable to invest $500 when first taking up a new sport. Therefore, lots of brands try to meet market demands by producing cheap mountain bikes.
Is $500 enough?
I wouldn’t recommend anything under $1,000 for serious mountain bikers. But on the other hand, I have come across several low-cost yet decent-quality mountain bikes made by reputed brands. These products are suitable for mountain biking beginners.
If you are shopping for the best mountain bikes under 500 bucks, just make sure you go for some well-known brands. Also, be aware that you may need to provide regular maintenance or even part replacement in the long run.
Among these mountain bikes below, I pick three top-rated models for you:
Important Note: Owing to the high demand and shortage of specific bike parts, many bikes are out of stock online. However, some bikes are worth the wait.
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What To Expect In A Good Yet Cheap Mountain Bike?
24’’/26’’/27.5’’/29’’ wheels
Aluminum/Steel frame
Linear pull brakes/ Disc brakes
Air-sprung suspension or a rigid fork
Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 Comparison Chart 2021
Before diving in the detailed reviews, take a quick look at the best mountain bikes under 500 comparison chart for an overview.
** At the time of publishing this post, each products price were under $500 in Amazon
5 Best Men’s Mountain Bikes
1. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
(Best Overall) 
Key Features
- 21-5” speed Shimano rear derailleur
- Shimano twist shifters
- All-terrain, wide knobby mountain tires
- SR suspension fork
Robust frame and convenient quick release saddle
I am excited to introduce this budget mountain bike for you. It is available in two frame options, including steel and aluminum. Both materials combine strength and comfort, but I would prefer steel a bit more.
In addition, the quick release makes it great for bikers of all heights.
Schwinn has done a good job on the Schwinn High Timber. It costs under $500 but offers great features and quality components that put it on par with much more expensive competitors.
Efficient drivetrain and reliable stopping power
More notably, the 21-speed Shimano drivetrain allows you to hit the road at high speed and change the gear with ease. Coupled with the SR suspension fork, the mountain bike surely rides smoothly and efficiently on and off-road.
For reliable stopping power, the manufacturers employed alloy linear-pull brakes. Not to mention the fact that it requires minimal prowess to set up – almost everything is pre-assembled.
Note: The product is available in 11 colors – black, blue, coral, grey, navy blue, orange, red, silver, teal, white/blue, and yellow. There is one frame size: 18’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What kind of warranty does this bike have?
This Schwinn comes with a limited lifetime warranty that covers replacement parts under manufacturing defects.
Does it have air or spring suspension?
The Schwinn High Timber has a spring fork.
Does the bike come assembled? It is partially assembled.
You will need to attach the front wheel, handlebar, seat and pedals.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
2. Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike
(Best For Dirt) 
Key Features
- Supersized all-terrain knobby tires
- Strong, lightweight double wall alloy rims
- Rear derailleur with seven speeds
- Mechanical disc brake
Sturdy and knobby tires
With the 26 inch knobby tires, the Mongoose Dolomite fat tire mountain bike is your best companion on your trails, whether you are riding on smoothly paved roads or dirt.
To be more specific, the fat tires can absorb shock and deal with terrain obstacles efficiently. That is why there is virtually no limit to where you can ride the Dolomite – just like with fat bikes.
Mongoose Dolomite is a simple yet powerful trail mountain bike that rides well on unpaved roads, across a light trail, and even in the dirt, thanks to the sturdy fat tires.
Dual disc brakes for full control
Other features also join to offer a smooth ride on different trails. For example, the aluminum/steel frame is cleverly designed to cope with loose dirt, sand, and snow well. Also, the dual disc brakes offer great control even in extreme conditions such as mud.
Not to mention the SHIMANO rear derailleur shifters, which allow you to ascend and descend safely even on harsh trails.
Note: The product is available in three colors – light blue, navy blue, and red. There are two frame sizes – 17 and 18’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What type of steel is the mongoose made of?
The Dolomite is made out of high-tensile steel.
Are there any aluminum parts?
Yes, stem, crank arms, and rims.
Does this bike come with reflectors?
Yes, on both wheels and two rear facing.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
3. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
(Best For The Money) 
Key Features
- Steel high-tensile hardtail frame
- Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur and microshift twist shifter
- Premium padded ATB saddle
- ATB-type resin pedals on the 3-piece crank.”
- Front and rear steel linear-pull brakes
Does a hardtail mountain bike that falls under 200 bucks seem too good to be true? But it actually exists, and it is the Huffy Hardtail mountain trail bike.
Strong hardtail frame and knobby tires
This Huffy MTB manages to offer you a comfortable experience despite the low price. With the strong high-tensile hardtail frame, rest assured you can hit the rough trails in the most smooth and proficient way.
In addition, the knobby 26″/1.95″ tires are there to offer better traction on bumpy areas, not to mention the front and rear steel linear-pull brakes.
The Huffy Hardtail mountain bike is a real bargain you cannot miss. It delivers exceptional value for the money to average mountain bikers.
Slight-rise handlebars
Particularly, I like the slight-rise handlebars since they reduce the pain in my back and shoulders after a long ride. You can totally customize the seatpost thanks to its ATB saddle with stitched sides.
Note: The product is available in eight colors – gloss black, military green gloss, gloss nickel, gloss metallic mint, matte acid green, matte black, ocean blue gloss, satin tropic blue. There are two frame sizes – 17 and 18’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What is the maximum weight this bike can accommodate?
The maximum capacity is 250 pounds for all wheel sizes.
Are the handlebars and seat adjustable?
The seat is adjustable but the handlebars are fixed.
What type of crankset does it have?
The crank is a standard steel 3 piece.
4. Mongoose Impasse Mountain Bike
(Best For Short Riders) 
Key Features
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Aluminum 3-piece crankset
- Extra-large 29 x 2.35-inch tires
- Lightweight front suspension fork
Low seatpost
The Mongoose Impasse is categorized as an adult bike, but it has a low seatpost – about 9 – ⅞’’. Therefore, it is just perfect for cyclists who are shorter than average.
In addition, the bicycle comes with a lightweight aluminum frame so that you have more control over it when pedaling.
With a low seatpost, Mongoose Impasse is a perfect bike for short riders. Plenty more great features make the bike totally worth every penny you spend.
Quality suspension and extra-large wheels
Although this bike is a budget-friendly option, Mongoose does not compromise on its quality. The brand used an element front suspension fork to ensure smooth rides even if your trails are full of ups and downs.
More notably, Mongoose also added extra-large 29-inch wheels to provide more shock absorption. Another advantage is that large wheels are easy to turn, meaning you can save some effort in spinning.
Note: The product is available in two colors – silver and charcoal. There is one frame size: 18’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What size is the rear shock?
The rear shock measurements for the Impasse are 750LB*150MM F/R24W.
Does it have a derailleur hanger?
No, it does not.
How tall is the bike from the seat to the ground at its highest point?
It is 990mm or 39″.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
5. Eurobike OBK Mountain Bike
(Best For Heavy Riders) 
Key Features
- Aluminum rims/ magnesium wheels
- F/Derailleur:Shimano TX-30
- R/Derailleur:Shimano TZ-50
Durable frame and high maximum weight
The Eurobike OBK has a 17’’ steel frame, which can accommodate heavy riders without breaking apart. The maximum capacity it can hold is up to 300 pounds, while the suitable height range is between 5’7″ and 6’1”.
With a large capacity and durable frame, Eurobike OBK is a wallet-friendly solution for heavy riders to join and enjoy the game of mountain biking.
Superior braking system
This OBK mountain bike also impresses cyclists with its powerful and responsive dual disc brakes. You can totally count on it even when riding downhill at high speeds.
As an added perk, there is a MTB suspension fork to absorb shocks and bumps for a smooth ride.
Note: The bike is available in four versions – red mag wheels, yellow mag wheels, red aluminum rims, yellow aluminum rims. There is only one frame size – 17’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
Is the saddle narrow or wide?
It is narrow.
What are the shipping dimensions of the box?
The box measures 52*8*28’’.
Does the bike come with pedals?
Sure, it arrives with pedals.
3 Best Women’s Mountain Bikes
6. Mongoose Switchback Mountain Bike
(Best For Women) 
Key Features
- Tectonic T1 aluminum frame
- Shimano drivetrain
- Exposure suspension fork
- Mechanical disc brakes
- 21-speed shifters and derailleurs
Lightweight frame and responsive brake system
Following is the Mongoose Switchback – the ideal mountain bike for female bikers. It offers ladies everything needed to have a comfortable trip on the trails.
The Mongoose Switchback mountain bike boasts a number of stand-out features that allow female cyclists to ride with confidence everywhere they pedal.
First comes the Tectonic T1 aluminum frame, which is lightweight and gives riders full control over the bike.
Unlike the Mongoose Tyax, this Switchback boasts mechanical instead of Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The mechanical brakes are responsive and offer quick stopping even if you cannot apply much force.
Powerful Shimano drivetrain and rigid suspension fork
Second, the reliable 2×9 speed Shimano drivetrain provides maximum comfort while ascending and descending the hill. Also, the Mongoose MTB saddle will keep you relaxed on long rides.
Besides, the Exposure suspension fork allows for steady gearing and smooth riding.
I recommend this bike for every lady biker out there. Come on, and give it a try regardless of your biking purposes.
Note: The product is available in 6 colors – black, blue, neo green, grey, orange, white. There are four sizes to choose from – XS, SM, MD, LG, XL.
Product Specs:
FAQs
How much weight can this bike hold?
Its weight limit is 250 pounds.
Does it have shock absorption?
Yes it has shocks at the front.
How long is the warranty?
There is a one-year warranty on the bike.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
7. Royce Union RTT Mountain Bike
(Best For Beginners) 
Key Features
- Shimano EZ Fire Plus Trigger & TY 300 rear indexed derailleur
- Alloy linear pull brakes
- Machined alloy wheel rims
- Padded saddle, with quality side stitching
Lightweight and easy-to-control frame
The RTT features an aluminum frame for easy maneuvering on the trails since it is pretty lightweight. The frame is good to look at too, with silver and gloss overcoat.
Ultrasmooth shifting
21 speed levels are available, and you can enjoy the ultra smooth shifting thanks to the Shimano drivetrain. Additionally, the Shimano shifters are really precise – a huge upgrader over some cheaply made turn shifters in some low-cost bikes.
Royce Union RTT is one of the best entry-level bikes for mountain biking beginners and recreational riders. You can’t go wrong with it.
Some other pros that I love about the Royce Union RTT is the comfortable padded saddle, as well as the alloy quick release binder.
From these points, the Royce Union RTT is easily an excellent MTB under 500 for beginner riders.
Note: The product is available in one color – white. There are five frame sizes to choose from: 15’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’ and 22’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What size is the frame?
This model has a 15” frame.
Does the bicycle come with built in holes for water bottles?
Unfortunately, this frame does not have drilled holes for bottles.
Does the bike come with a kickstand?
No it doesn’t.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
8. Royce Union RMT Mountain Bike
(Best For Downhill) 
Key Features
- Shimano 21 speed drivetrain
- 27.5 inch wheels with all-terrain tread pattern
- Machined alloy wheel rims
- Lightweight aluminum frame
All-terrain tires and tough suspension fork
This bike features durable tires with all-terrain tread pattern to reduce the rolling resistance, allowing you to pedal more easily. Meanwhile, the large 27.5-inch wheels help maintain balance while you are riding downhill.
In addition, Royce Union added a ZOOM suspension fork to absorb bumps and reduce muscle fatigue. There are suspension coils under the saddle for added shock absorption.
The Royce Union RMT has great off-road ability and downhill performance, making it a popular craze amongst female mountain bikers.
Reliable Shimano drivetrain
Riders can shift smoothly through 21 speeds with the Shimano drivetrain with derailleurs. Just use your thumb and index fingers and you can adjust the speed quickly.
Note: The bike is available in two colors – matte black and eggplant purple. There are five frame sizes: 15’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’ and 22’’.
Product Specs:
FAQs
What is the weight limit?
It is up to 300 pounds.
Does it come with a kickstand?
No, it does not.
Do the wheels have a quick release?
No, the wheels are nutted.
To learn more about this mountain bikes, please watch this review video:
2 Best Kid’s Mountain Bikes
9. Mongoose Exlipse Mountain Bike
(Best For Teenagers) 
Key Features
- 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur
- 3 piece cranks
- Front & rear linear pull brakes
- Alloy 24-inch wheels
Sturdy frame and adjustable seat
The Exlipse features a sturdy steel frame, which can stand the test of time. However, steel makes the bike quite weighty for a child to handle. Therefore, it is more suitable for teenagers.
The manufacturer used 24-inch wheels to let teens ride the bicycle with more ease and control. In addition, the bike’s seatpost is well adjustable to fit young cyclists as they gradually grow.
The Mongoose Exlipse mountain bike is the perfect entry-level mountain bike for teenagers. For under 500 bucks it is a massive bargain considering the impressive features.
Dual suspension
This Mongoose bike is a full suspension mountain bike, which means it can soak up most of the shocks and bumps. Coupled with the knobby tire treads, your kids can surely enjoy smooth rides in trail riding.
Another feature worth mentioning is the 21-speed Shimano gears with derailleur. They allow riders to tackle hills at ease.
Note: The product is available in one color – pink. There is only one frame size – 15’’
Product Specs:
FAQs
What is the handlebar width?
It is 560mm.
Does this bike have pedal brakes?
No, it only has hand brakes.
How low can you adjust the seat?
About 30’’ from the ground.
10. Mongoose Maxim Mountain Bike
(Best For Kid) 
Key Features
- SRAM twist shifters
- 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur
- Linear pull brakes
- 3 piece crank and alloy rims
Lightweight frame and dual suspension
This bike features an aluminum frame, which is lightweight yet durable.
The Mongoose Maxim comes with an aluminum frame that reduces the overall weight but does not sacrifice speed and comfort.
The bike has dual suspension. And as all dually, it offers a totally comfortable and relaxing riding experience no matter where your kids pedal. Meanwhile, the twist shifters give riders more control over the bike at all times.
Comfortable seat and saddle
The padded saddle ensures maximum comfort for riders, even during extended rides. On the other hand, the seat is quickly adjustable to fit the height and preferences of your children. So you can save lots of money on buying a new bike as your kids grow.
Other notable features include a Shimano rear derailleur, suspension fork, and linear-pull brakes.
Note: The product is available in one color – lavender.
Product Specs:
FAQs
Does this bike come with a kickstand?
Yes, it does.
Is the bike foldable?
No, it is a standard bicycle.
Can I install a front basket?
Yes, there is room for a front basket.
