Mountain Biking on a Budget: 11 Amazing Bikes Under $300

If you’re on a budget and don’t want to pay thousands of dollars for a mountain bike, you’re in luck. We researched and reviewed the top 11 best mountain bikes under $300 to help you with your decision-making and purchase.

Finding the perfect bike can be the difference between a rough and fun ride, but a good mountain bike doesn’t have to be expensive.

There are many decent options, even at budget-friendly prices. But sieving through these sea of cheap mountain bikes can be a challenge, so we’ve done that for you. 

We found the best mountain bikes under $300 by looking at their various attributes, including frame material, suspension, brakes and gear, wheels and tires, overall build-quality and performance. 

Top 11 Best Mountain Bikes Under $300

Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike

This Huffy Hardtail is a durable and sturdy bike that can easily be used to get around town, or take to the trails. The frame is made of sturdy steel, which contributes to ride quality and proper weight distribution. 

The Huffy hardtail mountain bike has a front suspension fork that helps to dampen trail bumps, and a Shimano drivetrain which provides the bike with a wide range of gears and allows for easy speed control, and there are plenty of gears accessible via the twist shifter to conquer any terrain.

This bike also features linear pull brakes, which provides precise stopping and ensures you have more control on the trail. It sports an adjustable seat with a quick release lever for easy and convenient saddle height adjustments. The huffy hardtail mountain bike is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.

Price at time of publication: $166

Dynacraft Silver Canyon Mountain Bike

The Dynacraft Silver Canyon is a sleek and elegant mountain bike with a lightweight steel frame with full suspension for improved comfort, stability and control on rough terrain. This bike is very sturdy and surprisingly very good for the price.

It has a 21-speed index derailleur with grip shifters to allow for easy shifting and smooth pedaling on inclined planes, while front and rear V-brakes are supportive and provide safe and accurate stops. 

The 26-inch wheel size offers increased traction on the trails despite the weather conditions, while the padded saddle provides a comfortable and safe ride. With a quick release seat post, the bike is customizable depending on your preference and size. 

To top it off, it comes with a solid steel kickstand and is backed by a limited 1-year warranty, so you can be assured that you’re getting a reliable, high-quality bike. If you’re looking for a great bike for your next adventure, the Dynacraft Silver Canyon mountain bike is a good purchase.

Price at time of publication: $200

EUROBIKE 27.5-Inch Mountain Bike

The Eurobike 27.5-inch mountain bike is a great choice for the road and mountain trails. This budget bike features a rigid 18-inch carbon steel frame that’s durable and lightweight. It can support riders between 5ft 7in and 6ft 1in of height and up to 330 lbs of weight.

This bike is designed for comfort and speed in winding mountain tracks, and has a 21 speed drivetrain which provides a variety of speed options. The rigid hardtail frame with front suspension and knobby tires help to reduce bumps and trail noise, which protects your body from aches and makes your rides more comfortable.

This Eurobike rides great, and the dual disc brake offers a smooth and precise stopping. This  bike comes 85% assembled, it’s very easy to put the remaining parts together. It’s great value for money. 

Price at time of publication: $269

Xspec 26″ 21 Speed Folding Mountain Bike 

The Xspec 26-inch folding bike is a compact and tough MTB ready to take on any trail. The highlight of this bike is the folding design, meaning you can carry it anywhere, and it only takes 15 seconds to fold.

The Xspec MTB comes with other top of the line components. It has a 26-inch high tensile steel frame which ensures longevity, alloy double wall rims with 26″ wheels, and a dual steel suspension system, for optimum shock absorption on rough trails.

This folding mountain bike also has disc brakes with a quick response time, and gear shifters and rear derailleurs for proper speed control depending on the terrain.

At 42.5 lbs, this is certainly a heavy bike, but it folds small and can fit into the trunk of your car, so you won’t have to lug around.  It’s a great bike for camping adventures, and weekend getaway trips to parks and campgrounds. And it can double as a commuter bike. 

Price at time of publication: $299

Mongoose Mountain-Bicycles Flatrock

Mongoose Flatrock is made of a durable, high-quality aluminum frame and perfect bike for fun rides on singletracks and winding mountain trails. It’s an MTB that’s good for commuting in the city or cruising down the street, this bike can handle it all.

This hardtail bike comes with a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain with smooth shifting and V-brakes that provide consistent and reliable stopping power. The V-brakes are certainly not the best for a mountain bike, but they seem to work fine. 

It also has double-wall rims and a heavy-duty suspension fork for effective shock absorption, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Flatrock also comes with an ergonomic saddle and handlebars that can be adjusted for a custom bike fit. It’s a fun and comfortable bike to ride, and the 26-inch wheels with knobby mountain tires provide great stability and grip on the trails. 

The Mongoose Flatrock is a good choice for anyone who wants a reliable and comfortable ride. Plus, its affordable price tag means you won’t have to break the bank.

Price at time of publication: $199

Huffy Hardtail Mountain Trail Bike

The Huffy hardtail mountain bike is a durable and reliable bike designed to provide exciting, smooth and comfortable rides. It comes in 3 different variations, the Tekton, the Exxo and the Escalate. 

The bikes come with the Shimano derailleur to access a wide variety of gears for flat roads or steep hills, oversized tires for maximum traction for dirt and gravel paths in wet and dry conditions and alloy linear pull brakes with machined alloy wheel rims for effective stopping power. 

They also feature a front suspension fork which absorbs bumps on rough terrain, and knobby 26 inch tires for proper traction in all conditions. It also has a quick release lever for seat height adjustment and a slight-rise handlebar, so the rider maintains an upright riding posture to minimize back and shoulder pain.

This Huffy Hardtail has linear pull brakes, which provides sufficient stopping power on the trails, an alloy. The trail bike comes with a 10-year frame warranty, and a 1-year warranty on other parts.

Price at time of publication: $175

Redfire Mountain Bike

The Redfire mountain bike features a hardtail aluminum frame that is strong enough to support up to 275 lbs of weight. The entire bike is made of high-quality components, making it a great choice for those who need a budget ride but don’t want to compromise on strength and quality. 

As a hardtail bike, it has a rigid frame and a front suspension fork, which ensures a smooth and controlled ride on rough terrain. The frame is also resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for long term use.

The bike uses disc brakes with superior stopping power, which is great for off-road riding and trail racing in varied weather conditions. The disc brakes also require little maintenance and can last many years with no problems.

This Redfire hardtail also has high quality 27.5inches tires that provide superior traction with precise steering control and a low rolling resistance. Coupled with aluminum alloy rims and a Shimano drivetrain, this bike is obviously built to last. It rides fast and smooth, and a bargain for the price.  

Price at time of publication: $189

EUROBIKE G7 Full Suspension Mountain Bike

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly full-suspension mountain bike, the Eurobike G7 might be the perfect option for you. This rugged bike is built with a high-carbon steel frame, which is strong and durable. The frame is suitable for both adults, with a suitable size range of between 5ft 10in and 6ft 1in.

The bike comes with mechanical disc brakes and a smooth 21-speed shifter and a rear derailleur, providing plenty of stopping power and smooth gear shifting to easily adapt to any trail conditions. And the 27.5-inch wheels can roll over bumps on the trails with ease. 

Like most Eurobikes, the S7 comes 85% assembled and very easy to put together without professional help. The Eurobike G7 is perfect for anyone who wants a high-performance mountain bike with plenty of features, and some room for upgrades. 

Price at time of publication: $289

Mongoose Status MTB

Enjoy the thrill of the outdoors and take your mountain biking to the next level with the Mongoose Status Mountain Bike. It’s a beautiful full-suspension mountain bike built with a solid aircraft-grade aluminum frame.

This bike is designed to go the distance, and sports 26-inch wheels with durable alloy rims and wide knobby mountain tires that help you roll over bumps and rocks on the trails. 

The 21-speed rear derailleur gives you a range of gears needed to get the bike up the steepest hills, and the riser handlebar helps take the bumps in stride. The V-brakes are a little disappointing, but still do a good job for the price. 

With the Mongoose Status Mountain Bike, you can be sure that you’ll get many miles of biking pleasure. And for peace of mind, the bike comes with a limited 5-year warranty and a 1-year warranty on normal wear parts. 

Price at time of publication: $237 (Update: $459)

Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike

The Kent KZ2600 is another budget-friendly mountain bike with a solid frame and decent build-quality. It offers a full suspension set-up with a sturdy aluminum frame. 

The bike has a range of features designed to maximize the rider’s comfort and performance. It has 26” double wall alloy rims with 36 spokes that give it strength and durability to the bike and makes them less susceptible to wear and tear. 

Shimano rear derailleur and shifters help the bike reach 21 speeds on flat or inclined planes. It also features front disc brakes and rear linear pull brakes for quick and efficient stopping and precise speed control. 

The powerful brakes and Shimano gears will help you achieve your peak performance, no matter the riding conditions. It’s a well-made, versatile and reliable mountain bike, and you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride over all types of terrain. 

In addition to its impressive design, the Kent KZ2600 comes with a limited lifetime frame warranty, giving you peace of mind that your purchase is protected. 

Price at time of publication: $299

Hiland Full Suspension Mountain Bike

The Hiland Full-Suspension Mountain Bike is a good option for outdoor adventures on dirt roads. With its Carbon Steel Soft Tail frame, it offers strength, stability, toughness on the trails.

Featuring dual disc brakes, the bike offers improved shock absorption which effectively counteracts rough roads, providing a durable and comfortable riding experience. The Soft Tail also ensures better grip on descents, making it easier to maintain control even on difficult terrain. 

Additionally, the 21 Shimano drivetrain is precise and simple to control, allowing for effortless climbing and room to get low on descents, corners, and jumps. And the 26-inch XC tires ensure faster acceleration.

This geometry of the bike ensures you’re not easily fatigued during long rides, and can adapt to a wide range of terrain, including mountain roads, forest paths and highways.

The Hiland Full-Suspension Mountain Bike comes with a lifetime warranty to back its quality, it’s a decent bike at a good price. 

Price at time of publication: $229

Buying Guide: How to choose the best budget mountain bike

It can be difficult to know what to look for when purchasing a mountain bike. In this section, we discuss everything you need to consider before finalizing your purchase.

Frame material

A bike’s frame determines the longevity of a bike, and to some extent, the performance too.  The frame of a bike is one of the most important parts of the bike. It’s actually the very core of a bike, therefore it needs to be very strong and well-built. 

MTBs often have heavier frames to boost their longevity and crash resistance because, unlike road bikes, their primary goal isn’t speed.

These bikes are built to handle a variety of weather conditions, as well as uneven and very rough terrain.

As you may already know, there are 4 different types of bike frame materials; sturdy steel, lightweight aluminum, durable titanium and ultralight carbon fiber.

However, you won’t find carbon fiber or titanium as options in low-cost bikes because they are primarily used for high-end bicycles. Therefore, your only options at this price point are steel and aluminum.

Aluminum and steel are the most commonly used frame materials in cheap mountain bikes. Because they are the least expensive materials, but they are also very durable.

Aluminum alloy is less expensive, more resilient, and lighter than steel. But steel is the stronger and more durable material, however it is also typically heavier and may not be the ideal choice for optimal handling.

Most entry-level and mid-range hardtails will have a lightweight aluminum frame. 

You should also consider the geometry of a bike. A bike with an aggressive geometry is ideal for racing, while a relaxed geometry is great for long distance rides. The ideal MTB for recreational riding should have a relaxed geometry.

Hardtail vs Full-suspension

Another very important consideration is whether you want a hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike. If you’re working with a small budget, a hardtail bike may be a better choice for you because they are cheaper than full-suspension MTBs. Hardtail mountain bikes are built to have a rigid frame and a front suspension fork to dampen trail noise and bumps. 

Full-suspension mountain bikes have front and rear suspension and give you more protection from road vibrations, which greatly improves ride quality.

Full suspension mountain bikes are a better option for very technical trails with big impacts, but they are often more expensive. 

Brakes & Gear

Hydraulic disc brakes are the best type of brakes for mountain bikes. But at this price point you will see other cheaper brakes like rim brakes and V-brakes (or linear pull brakes). These brakes offer good braking power, but they can perform poorly in wet conditions. 

You will also find $300 mountain bikes with mechanical disc brakes (there are a few on our list above). Mechanical disc brakes are powerful and provide good braking power even in wet conditions. 

Another important consideration is the gearing system of the bike. The gears on a bike are referred to as the number of speeds. Budget mountain bikes will often have between 7 to 21-speeds (which is the most common). 

We recommend getting a multi speed bike because it gives you more options and allows you to easily ride at different speeds across different terrain.

Wheels And Tires

There are different sizes of wheels and tires for mountain bikes, and this also affects performance on the trails. The most common wheel sizes for mountain bikes are 27.5-inches and 29 inches. 

Although 29er wheels are often considered the superior option, 27.5-inch wheels are also suitable for trail riding.

Bikes with 27.5 wheels are easier to ride because they are quicker to accelerate and stop, and they are generally easier to control.

29er wheels have advantages as well. They roll over obstacles better, maintain speed better, and have better trail traction.

The wheel size you choose will be determined by your personal preferences and what you expect from a bike.

There are bikes that combine both wheels to get the best of both worlds; such bikes will have different sized wheels, typically with the 29er in front and the 27.5-inch wheel in back. These are called mullet bikes.

FAQs

Are cheap mountain bikes good?

Yes, they are. Cheap mountain bikes are best for exploring parks, dirt tracks, riding around your neighborhood and some easier mountain bike trails. But they are not the best for the more challenging mountain trails.

We do not recommend using cheap mountain bikes on very technical trails for your own safety. 

How long do cheap mountain bikes last?

The longevity of a mountain bike will depend on how sturdy it is, and how well it is maintained. But, generally speaking, a mountain bike will last for about 20 years or more with proper maintenance.

The type of riding you do, and how often you ride will also affect the longevity of your bike, so it’s not always easy to say for sure how long a bike will last. But keep in mind that bikes generally last for several years, with proper care of course.  

What is the difference between cheap and expensive mountain bikes?

Build quality and performance are the major differences between cheap and expensive mountain bikes. Expensive mountain bikes are sturdy and able to withstand the strains of mountain biking. They also perform better than cheap MTBs, and offer better handling and ride quality. 

What should I look for in a budget mountain bike?

The most important things to look for in a budget mountain bike are frame material, type of brakes, number of gears, wheel size, and build quality. Also check how well the bike will fit you and your riding style (like racing, jumping, leisure rides or aggressive-style riding).

Thinking of your riding style is important because bikes are built for different styles of riding. So, where and how you plan to ride are important considerations. 

Are mountain bikes good for long distance rides?

Yes, mountain bikes are good for long distance rides. They are sturdy, fully able to handle rocky routes, and MTBs often have puncture-resistant tires, so there is a lower chance of getting a flat tire. Mountain bikes are great for off-road adventures and touring on gravel or dirt roads.

Can you use a mountain bike as a road bike?

Yes, you can. But it won’t feel like riding a typical road bike. A mountain bike on the road will not go as fast as a road bike, because road bikes are indeed faster than mountain bikes.

MTBs can’t hold speed like road bikes do, mainly because of their heavier frames with larger and thicker tires. But you can convert a mountain bike to a road with a few modifications; you may need to change the thick, knobby tires to thin and smooth tires found in road bikes. 

Is it okay to mountain bike every day?

Yes, it is. Daily physical activity like cycling is good for your health. Cycling has many health benefits, which you can tap into by riding your mountain bike every day. 

Daily cycling will improve your physical fitness and help to prevent serious illnesses like arthritis, diabetes, depression, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, etc.

Wrapping Up

Mountain bikes come in different price ranges, and you can find a good one no matter your budget. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, so you don’t end up with junk.

Think of the sturdiness and durability of the bike. You’re in luck here because all the bikes listed above are all very sturdy with good build-quality.

You also want to make sure you get a bike that’s the appropriate size for your body. A bike that properly fits your body is very important because this will determine your comfort and pedaling efficiency on the bike.

We recommend this Huffy Hardtail as the best mountain bike under $300. It’s lightweight with a solid build quality, easy to assemble, and great for beginners. 

See Huffy Hardtail MTB on Amazon, customers who bought this bike were mostly happy with their purchase.