Are you one of those people that are looking for amazing mountain bikes under $300? Then this guide is definitely for you! Mountain bikes are a God-Send, with them, you can enjoy amazing leisure activities. No matter if the fun is alone, with family, or with colleagues, you are going to have a blast!
Imagine this, the beautiful green terrain, hills, you riding between the wilderness, it just seems so exciting. Mountain bikes are also a form of great exercise and we all know the benefits of a good amount of exercise.
People are sometimes plagued by the misconception that getting a good enough budget bike is impossible, some even consider that a myth. Although it is difficult, it is not impossible to get a great mountain bike for under $300. This guide is specifically made to tackle that misconception.
Going to the market to look for a budget mountain bike is going to be a nightmare, first of all, you would know nothing about the brand and the quality and there would also be suspicion if you can actually trust the vendor. That is why we have done the necessary research for you!
Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 Ranked:
| Bikes | Best Feature | Prices/$ |
|---|---|---|
| Xspec 26” Folding Mountain Bike | Best Overall | 299.99 |
| Mongoose Mech MTB 24”/26” | Best Handling | 190 |
| Merax Mountain Bike | Best Suspension | 250 |
| Huffy Mountain Bike 24” | Best For Hilly Trails | 199.99 |
| Roadmaster Granite 24” Mountain Bike | Best Gears | 245 |
| Roadmaster Navy Granite MTB 26” | Best Design | 250 |
| URSTAR 26” Mountain Bike | Best Disc Brakes | 250 |
| Schwinn Women’s High Timber Mountain Bike | Best Women’s Bike | 270 |
| TITAN Pathfinder Elite | Best Speed-Shifters | 269.54 |
| Vilano Ridge 1.0 | Best Durability | 299.00 |
| Mongoose Stasis Expert 26-Inch Full Suspension Mountain Bicycle | Best For Exercise | 230.84 |
| Kent KZ2600 | Best All-Weather Bike | 299.99 |
Note: All prices are subject to change.
These are some of the best budget mountain bikes that you can get under or in $300, let’s discuss! Let’s discuss these awesome bikes in detail now!
1. Xspec 26” Folding Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $299.99
No one could have ever thought about landing an amazing mountain bike for what $300? Well, that is the truth because the Xspec 26” Folding Mountain Bike is my top choice for the guide. Folding bikes are rather expensive but this one is a wonder, you can use it for the daily commute, work, exercise, and so much more.
You don’t have to worry about corrosion or dirt marks with this bike because its amazing folding frame is made from premium-quality steel.
The bike is very resilient when it comes to vibrations and shocks, it has a dual suspension system so you don’t have to worry about that. Speed is quite thrilling and when it comes to mountain biking, we completely understand the need.
That is why there is a 21-speed setting so you can easily transition between different speeds on the go! I have personally experienced the speed thrill on the Xspec 26′ and I can honestly say that it does not get any better in this price frame.
Disc brakes are going to provide the ultimate stopping power and that is going to be needed. No head collisions or crashes with this bike, you just need to be careful while riding!
Advantages
- Premium-Quality Folding Steel Frame
- Powerful Disc Brakes
- Strong MTB Tires
- Easily Transportable
- 21-Speed Gear
Disadvantages
- Cheap Pedals
2. Mongoose Mech MTB 24”/26”
Price: MSRP $190
Mongoose is a well-known brand when it comes to great-budget mountain bikes, and their Mech MTB is a sight to behold. This is a mountain bike that is great for kids and teenagers as they are going to have the most fun out of it. The value is great because this bike actually grows with your kids, there is no problem if they want to use it even when they are older.
The uniform tread patterns on the tires provide amazing traction and handling, and it felt amazing to ride. The speed-gear selection is great too, almost seamless transition you would be enjoying.
Mountain bikes are considered heavy and sometimes that gets in the way of performance, that is not the problem with the Mongoose Mech MTB, with its lightweight aluminum frame, things go very easy.
You will also be safe and protected from collisions and vibrations thanks to the suspension system of this amazing bike.
Advantages
- Amazing Traction
- Lightweight and Durable Aluminum Frame
- Enhanced Stopping Power
- Light and Easy To Handle
Disadvantages
- Difficult Assembly
- Difficult Repair
3. Merax Finiss Mountain Bike 26”
Price: MSRP $250
The Merax Mountain Bike promises great comfort and performance thanks to its hardtail suspension. No matter what kind of surface you are riding on, you will be enjoying the top performance and would be protected from shocks and different vibrations. This is all because of the amazing front suspension of the bike, definitely, cloud 9 feels!
With mountain biking, you need to alter speeds at different terrains, well that is why the bike has a 24-speed gear set. Some of the best features of the bike are
With the dual disc brakes constructed with the bike, you get amazing unstoppable power. Even if you wanted to go full aggressive with the Merax, you could easily do that, the bike does not hold you back, not even one bit.
The Merax Mountain Bike is best for off-road and on-road purposes, if you are looking for a great affordable bike then point your visors to this one!
Advantages
- Amazing Hardtail Suspension
- Powerful Dual Disc-Brakes
- Smooth Gears
Disadvantages
- Damaged Shipping
- Unresponsive Customer Service
4. Huffy Mountain Bike 24”
Price: MSRP $199.99
Achieving fun and comfort with bikes is sometimes hard, most of the bikes would focus on while neglecting the other but that is not the case with Huffy Mountain Bike. No matter what kind of surface you would be riding it on, the seamless and amazing performance would always be there.
The Huffy Mountain Bike packs wide and large tires, and with them, you can conquer all sorts of paths, you won’t be held back in any way.
You can also climb any kind of hilly terrain and still enjoy that crisp handling thanks to the 21-speed gear set. The rim brakes also provide amazing stopping power.
Advantages
- 21-Speed System
- Amazing Hardtail Suspension
- Rim Brakes
- Comfortable Handle Grips
Disadvantages
- Difficult Break Adjustment
- Difficult Assembly
5. Roadmaster Granite 24” Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $245
As the name goes, this bike is a master of the road and the mountains, the Roadmaster Granite offers top-notch performance and comfort, there are only a few bikes that can offer that kind of supremacy, and that too on a budget.
Thanks to the 18-speed gear set, you can easily transition between different speeds in accordance with the surface you are riding on, shifting gears has never been more fun and easy.
Roadmaster Granite’s Suspension is definitely something to talk about, it keeps the bike protected from all kinds of collisions and vibrations.
Some people would be hesitant about the rim brakes but let me assure you, they are quite powerful and work wonders. The stopping power is absolute and there won’t be a second delay if you want to stop and relax. You will also be enjoying amazing traction on all kinds of surfaces.
Advantages
- Lightweight and Durable Steel Frame
- 18-Speed Gear Set
- Amazing Stopping Power
Disadvantages
- Slipping Gears
6. Roadmaster Navy Granite 26” Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $250
The Roadmaster Navy Granite is almost the same bike as the one mentioned above, although this one has a bigger wheelset and a different design. What I found the most interesting about this bike is that the handlebars are wider here, promoting a comfortable grip.
So what else is different with this bike? Let me tell you about the powerful pull-up brakes, that will make the bike stop in an instant. The brake levers are very comfortable and durable, you feel the grip from that crisp texture.
Larger tires with that aggressive tread design offer the best traction on all kinds of surfaces, with this bike at your side you won’t have to look anywhere else. Plus, this bike also comes in a lot of different colors if you don’t want to go with the navy.
Advantages
- Soft-Padded Seats
- Easy and Quick Gear System
- Powerful Pull-Up Brakes
- Large Tires That Promote Aggressive Traction
Disadvantages
- Unadjustable Handlebar
7. URSTAR 26” Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $250
The URSTAR 26” Mountain Bike is your best choice for traveling, outing with friends, backpacking, or just recreational fun. What I am trying to say here is that you can go absolutely ham with the URSTAR Mountain Bike. Style and Performance are prioritized with this bike and you are going to see a lot of professionals riding this bike.
Let’s start with the Saddle first, it is top quality and environmental-friendly so you can feel that comfort and durability.
The aluminum frame of the bike is something to talk about, not suitable for heavy riders, it works wonders for the average person, and it is both durable and strong. On top of that, there are also aluminum rims that offer effective handling.
Smooth rides are guaranteed because of the 80mm suspension fork, there would be no vibrations or collisions of any kind. One of the best qualities of a mountain bike is the stopping power and with dual mechanical brakes, the URSTAR bike becomes a powerhouse. It even has a Shimano 24-speed derailleur and shifters, you get so much value.
Advantages
- Strong and Durable Aluminum Frame
- 80mm Suspension Fork
- Powerful Mechanical Brakes
Disadvantages
- Noisy
8. Schwinn Women’s High Timber Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $270
Women also deserve the best, as men can enjoy amazing mountain bikes, so should women, and the Schwinn High Timber is one of the best options for an avid rider. I would go far and even say that this is the best budget bike for women, that sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? The amazing steel frame of the bike ensures great comfort and performance.
Let us talk about the build quality of the bike, the tires are amazing and they are also equipped with linear-pull brakes, which is instant stopping power right there. As the nature of the tires is rugged, the bike can handle any kind of terrain you throw at it.
The design matters, women love design over anything and that is one of the best aspects of the Schwinn High Timber Bike.
The Shimano components like the 21-speed derailleurs and shifters enhance the performance of the bike to new limits. You should definitely try out this bike!
Advantages
- High-Quality Build
- Enhanced Durability
- Attractive Aesthetics
- Shimano Derailleur
Disadvantages
- Faulty Delivery
9. TITAN Pathfinder Elite
Price: MSRP $269.54
Getting a good enough mountain bike under $300 is going to be tricky, you would have to make some compromises, may it be on performance or components. The TITAN Pathfinder Elite is a great beginner’s bike and you should definitely check it out!
This is an entry-level bike but the performance is great and you would be really comfortable while riding it.
The construction of this bike is very impressive, the frame is made from Hi-Tensile Steel which is known for its durability. Don’t be worried if you think this bike is gender-restricted, it isn’t! It is an amazing Unisex bike that both men and women can enjoy!
The V-Brake system helps out a lot, no matter what kind of surface you are riding on, the stopping power is going to be absolute. Thanks to the 21-Speed Shimano Gearing, you have full control over the bike!
What I found most useful as a tall guy is the Adjustable Saddle and Handlebars. It’s so much more comfortable to take on difficult tracks when you are comfortable on your bike.
Advantages
- Dual Suspension
- Front and Rear Shock Suspension
- Powerful Brakes
- Great Unisex Bike
Disadvantages
- Difficult Assembly
10. Vilano Ridge 1.0 Mountain Bike/ Disc Brakes
Price: MSRP $299.00
If you love having your mountain bike for the daily commute, weekend fun, or just going to work then the Vilano Ridge is the bike for you! Another great reason to get this bike is if you are a beginner and want to practice on those trails.
The construction of the bike is really impressive, the suspension fork makes sure that your ride remains smooth and comfy even on bumpy trails.
With mountain bikes, you have to be absolutely in control and that is why the mechanical disc brakes are for, they give you absolute stopping power when needed. No matter if you are going to ride around the town have fun or go have adventures on the hills, the 21-speed is going to make things ideal.
With the Vilano Ridge, better traction and durability await thanks to the 26-inch wheels and 6061 aluminum frame.
Advantages
- 21-Speed Gear Set
- Durable Suspension System
- Lightweight 6061 Aluminum Frame
- Powerful Mechanical Disc Brakes
Disadvantages
- Lack Of Color Choice
11. Mongoose Stasis Expert 26-Inch Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $230.84
Mountain Bikes are great for exercising, may it be for high-intensity or cardiovascular workouts, they are going to perform amazingly. Bikes make you heal faster and considering the workouts that you do, you would be needing that relaxation, they are also a great source of therapy.
The Mongoose Stasis is a great budget mountain bike, it comes with a suspension system and the aluminum frame of the bike makes it very durable and lightweight.
You would easily be able to enhance your workouts because of the amazing components of the bike, well there are alloy rims that are going to be highly durable. The rear and front brakes offer amazing stopping power, with this bike you can enjoy almost everything.
The Shimano components make things quite interesting, with the derailleurs and shifters you would always enjoy top-notch handling and performance.
Advantages
- Lightweight and Durable Aluminum Frame
- Powerful Brakes
- Shimano Derailleur
- Powerful Suspension
Disadvantages
- Difficult To Repair
12. Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Price: MSRP $299.99
The last one on the list is the Kent KZ, Kent is a world-famous brand that makes comfortable bikes. This is an amazing mountain bike to have if you are on a tight budget. If you are worried that they might have shrugged off some features then that is not the point.
The Kent KZ still packs amazing features and also offers great performance. Most of the time when you go for cheap bikes, you get average products but the Kent is one of those few bikes that has such great features in that price tag. The Shimano 21-Speed Shifters make gear shifting fun and quick, like really quick.
You can easily enjoy this bike in all kinds of weather, there will be no need to switch or look for a replacement. The Knobby tires of the Kent provide amazing traction as always!
We know that brakes are an important aspect of mountain bikes which is why there is a combination of both liner pull brakes and mechanical brakes, they provide amazing stopping power.
Advantages
- Durable Alloy Rims
- Strong Aluminum Frame
- Shimano 21-Speed Shifters
- Dual Suspension System
Disadvantages
- Poor Customer Service
- Cheap Quality Components
How We Choose Bikes- Our Methodology
As an avid mountain biker, I understand the struggle of finding a high-quality bike that fits within a budget. That’s why I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching and analyzing the best mountain bikes under $300 on the market. I’ve scoured the web for honest reviews and feedback from verified customers, and I’ve even tested some of the top contenders myself, including the editor’s choice.
Using my extensive knowledge of bike components and their strengths and weaknesses, I’ve narrowed down the top 12 options that offer the best value for your money. So whether you’re a beginner looking to get into the sport or a seasoned rider seeking an affordable upgrade, you can trust that these bikes have been thoroughly vetted and carefully selected.
Without sacrificing quality or performance, these bikes offer features such as excellent handling, top-notch suspension, and durable design, all at a price point that won’t break the bank. So if you’re ready to hit the trails with confidence, you must consider my top picks for the best mountain bikes under $300.
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Recap
There is nothing wrong with getting a budget mountain bike and most of the time they amaze you with their brilliant construct and features. Sometimes you get bikes that are cheaper yes but offer the best quality even surpassing the premium quality.
My Best Pick from the list is the Xspec 26” Folding Mountain Bike. No bike was able to top this beauty and I do emphasize checking this one out, you will certainly not be disappointed.
No matter what the price tag of these bikes is, you would be enjoying tons having fun, you must always enjoy mountain biking and with these bikes, you would certainly be able to do so. Happy Biking!
