The Best Mountain Bikes
Mountain biking has changed over time to be less of an extreme sport and more of an activity for people of all ages. With the built-in safety features and wider gear range, it's not a surprise that mountain bikes are also becoming a popular form of transportation. Are you up to finding the right option for your lifestyle? To help you out, we've narrowed down the most important features of a great mountain bike. It must be easy to adjust, house ample gear options, and have a light frame. Our top choice is the Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, which is lightweight and has adjustable levers for the handlebars and seat. If you need more gear options, consider the Schwinn Bonafide Men's Mountain Bike. With 24 gear speeds, you'll be a pro in no time. Keep reading to find out more about our favorite mountain bikes.
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Ready for adventure
Take a smooth ride on this mountain bike from Huffy. The 14 inch frame and 24 inch wheels are recommended for riders up to five feet tall. With 21 speed settings and a little help from the Kolo 1200 suspension fork, cycling downhill feels almost like flying. The seat and padded handlebars are both adjustable to create a personalized ride. Plus, the linear pull hand brakes provide an added safety measure for slow and abrupt stops.
Pros:
- Although it doesn’t come preassembled, this bike can easily be set up in about 30 minutes.
- This bike is also customizable. You can swap out the seat, tires and even add a water bottle holder.
- This lightweight bike is easy to transport and store. Try attaching a bike rack to your car to explore new trails further away from home.
Cons:
- The seat is not as comfortable as others available for purchase.
Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Beginner's luck
Make your first mountain biking experience a great one with this bike from Mongoose. The lightweight steel frame and seven gear options are made for offroad trails and swiftly adjust between various types of terrain. The four inch wide chunky tires provide additional balance and stability and can even be used on sand and snow for added fun.
Pros:
- Choose between the traditional reverse pedal brakes and the dual handle brakes for an extra safe ride. As you grow more comfortable with this bike, you’ll have a better understanding of the brake systems and will be able to make minor adjustments while riding.
- If you are looking for a way to revitalize your exercise routine, this bike is a great option.
Cons:
- The bike is fairly heavy due to the size of the tires.
Dynacraft Magna Front Shock Mountain Bike
Give the gift of speed
If you’re like us, riding a bike brings back wonderful childhood memories. With its 24-inch wheels and front shock absorbers, this hardtail mountain bike is both comfortable and practical whether you’re riding in your neighborhood or down a mountain. Available in a variety of colors, this bike would make a great gift for a loved one.
Pros:
- This bike is on the smaller side, so it would make a great gift for children or adults that are five foot two inches or less. There is a lever that makes it easy to adjust the seat for the right height.
- This mountain bike is easy to assemble as long as you follow the included instruction manual.
Cons:
- It can be tricky to assemble the chain and wheels, so be sure to read the assembly instructions carefully.
Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike
Easy riding
Riding a bike doesn’t have to be strenuous, especially with this electric mountain bike from Ancheer. Give yourself a break with some help from the 48-volt motor that works alongside your pedaling to conquer more distance at a higher speed. Battery life will last up to 60 miles using the pedal assist and up to 25 miles with the more powerful throttle. The 21-speed aluminum frame bike moves smoothly with battery assistance but can also be used as a manual bike to push your endurance.
Pros:
- We love how the central display tracks your speed, distance traveled, and battery life.
- To help you bike steep hills, you can use either the pedal assist or throttle options, increasing your speed up to 20 miles per hour.
Cons:
- We would’ve loved it if this bike came with a cargo rack.
Schwinn Bonafide Men’s Mountain Bike
Smooth shifting
If you’re interested in making mountain biking a part of your routine, this bike has all the features you’ll need. With a wheel size of 29 inches and 24 gear options, this Schwinn mountain bike is designed for dedicated cyclists. The heavily textured tires and suspension fork provide stability for fast downhill rides and rough terrain.
Pros:
- Since the seat can be adjusted to suit your height, the frame size is comfortable for taller users.
- The mechanical disk brakes are powerful and touch-sensitive to keep riders safe no matter where they’re riding. Even in wet conditions, these brakes bring you safely to a stop.
Cons:
- The seat and handlebars tend to get uncomfortable when riding longer distances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gears do I need on my bike?
Mountain bikes generally have one of three gear options: 21, 24, or 27. The number you choose will depend on where you live and how you will be using your bike. If you live in a flat area or only have a few hills, you can stick with a 21-speed bike. This is also the case if you plan to use your bike around your neighborhood or for leisurely rides along the coast. But if you’re preparing for more strenuous rides up and down hills or along more challenging trails, a 24 or 27-speed mountain bike will be more beneficial.
What is the difference between a road bike and a mountain bike?
The most significant difference is the type of wheels. Road bikes have slim tires that are fairly smooth to help with your speed on the road, while mountain bikes have larger tires with extra grip, ideal for off-road riding. Also, road bikes usually have curved handlebars that provide stability for racers, whereas mountain bikes have a straight handlebar that works along with the suspension for a steadier ride.
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