15 best mountain bikes
Mountain bikes are suitable for cross-country riding, obstacle jumping and downhill skiing. They are ideal for extreme travel. The bike easily passes bumps, holes and other flaws on the road. Manufacturers offer a wide range of such two-wheeled vehicles, so everyone can choose for themselves, taking into account their interests and needs. We present to your attention a ranking of the best mountain bikes.
The best mountain bike manufacturers
Mountain bikes come under a variety of brands and brands. Models released abroad are popular in Russia. They have more positive reviews, are reliable when passing extreme routes, and are distinguished by their maintainability and manufacturability.
Well proven:
- STELS - a Russian manufacturer, which is also known abroad. Has been producing bicycles since 1996. The first models were not very successful, but thanks to the introduction of new concepts, it became possible to go global. Popular models are Navigator, Pilot, Miss, Voyager.
- Merida Is a Taiwanese company, the formation of which took place more than 40 years ago. Initially, it was profiled on the sale of components. After a while, the strategy was radically changed. First, the brand became recognizable in the eastern market, a little later - in the western one. Today it belongs to the most famous and reliable. Produces mountain bikes for participation in world competitions.
- FORWARD Is another leader of Russian bicycle manufacturers, which started operating in 1999. Produces repairable vehicles at an affordable price. The brand gained its popularity thanks to its participation in elite cycling races.
- Stinger Is a Taiwanese brand leading the way in terms of value for money. It is positioned as a company that creates mainly budget models of bicycles. It also produces professional versions that can drive even in the most difficult off-road conditions.
Best inexpensive mountain bikes
Inexpensive mountain bikes are usually entry-level and lightweight. There are no additional accessories in them, they will have to be purchased separately. Suitable for those who are just starting to travel.
STELS Navigator 500 V 26 V020
On it, the driver feels confident both on the cross-country track and on a regular flat road. Able to withstand significant loads thanks to the MICRO SHIFT accessories. Built on the basis of a lightweight steel hardtail frame. Available in three sizes: 16, 18 and 20 inches. A suspension fork with 60mm travel smoothes out unevenness.
The 26-inch wheels have deep tread and double aluminum rims provide rigidity. Switching between speeds takes place using the POWER RD-60B system. Braking takes place using a mechanical rim brake. The bike is equipped with branded tires and high-tech cranks.
PROS:
- permissible load up to 100 kg;
- produced for people with different heights;
- double rims;
- affordable price.
MINUSES:
- the weight;
- uncomfortable saddle.
Stinger Element 26
Has 26 "tires designed specifically for mountain models. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, which reduces the weight of the bike itself. It is realized on pipes with stiffeners and internal wiring. Available in three sizes for different heights. 6-star transmission. The wheels are made on double rims and have 2 "wide tires.
Available in white and black, the maximum cyclist weight is 110 kg. Suitable for walking and cross-country skiing. The steering column is made of steel and the pedals are made of plastic. The number of speeds is 18.
PROS:
- light weight;
- reliable braking system;
- convenient speed switching system;
- there are fenders and a footrest.
MINUSES:
- plastic pedals;
- it may be difficult to adjust the gearshift.
Desna 2611 MD
The mountain bike is created on the basis of a steel frame of a classic shape. All elements are welded together. The bike has a triangular geometry, which provides reliability and resistance to stress. Available in three frame sizes: 14 ", 17" and 19 "frames. Supplied with 26 '' wheels, double aluminum rim. Tires are universal tires.
The vehicle has 21 speeds and a mechanically driven disc braking system. The pedals are made of plastic. Soft fork level is initial. The steering wheel can be made higher.
PROS:
- low price;
- good welds;
- fork with rubber boots on springs;
- sold with a footrest included.
MINUSES:
- no rack mount;
- wheels with nuts;
- over time, the brakes begin to creak.
Best mountain bikes price-quality
These models include inexpensive mountain bikes that are reliable, comfortable and durable. This category contains models of both foreign and domestic manufacturers.
STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V010
A foldable multi-speed bike that is easy to store and transport. The aluminum frame is available in 17.5 and 19 inches. The main pipe is designed to make assembly and disassembly as simple as possible. The bike has a shock-absorbed fork that smooths out minor bumps in the road. The fork is made of steel.
The wheels are 26-inch, with two aluminum rims. The unique tread pattern is suitable for both city and off-road driving. Switching takes place using rotary shifters, which are located on the steering wheel. The connecting cables are not pinched when folded.
PROS:
- good disc brakes;
- compactness of the bike;
- good shock absorption;
- quality wheels and frame.
MINUSES:
- not very comfortable saddle;
- vibration when braking.
FORWARD Sporting 29 2.0 Disc
The Forward mountain bike is equipped with a steel frame, which is available in three sizes. Front suspension fork is used for damping. For reliability in the production process, robotic welding of steel frames was used, which made it possible to reduce the likelihood of defects due to the human factor.
For convenience, mechanical disc brakes are installed that are independent of weather and rim conditions. The mountain bike has 21 speeds and 29-inch wheels. For durability, the double-wall rims are made of aluminum. There are rear wheel spoke protection and branded tires. RCC technology is used to install the circuit.
PROS:
- a fork with a shock absorber adjustable in terms of stiffness;
- two-stage gearshift system;
- the ability to go off-road;
- the set includes a footboard and reflectors.
MINUSES:
- plastic pedals;
- the disc may rub against the brake pad.
STELS Navigator 930 MD 29 V010
The Stels Navigator 930 MD 29 V010 mountain bike is equipped with an aluminum alloy frame in sizes 16.5, 18.5, and 20 inches. A spring-elastomer fork is used for cushioning. The bike is oriented towards the entry-level and has larger wheels. Refers to universal models, suitable for traveling around the city, forest and country roads, learning extreme driving. The frame has cable channels for closed cable routing of the brake and transmission system cables. This is necessary to prevent the cable from breaking or pulling out.
The 29-inch wheels are fitted with 1.95-inch tires with a universal tread pattern. The transmission has 24 speeds. The mountain bike has a complete set of reflective elements for traveling in the dark. They are mounted on the wheel spokes, under the saddle and on the handlebars. There is a protective disc near the right connecting rod.
PROS:
- large wheel diameter;
- lightweight frame;
- hydraulic fork blocking;
- a large number of speeds.
MINUSES:
- poor attachment of the wings;
- lack of a footrest.
Best men's mountain bikes
Men's mountain bikes differ in the shape of the handlebars, the weight of the model and the type of frame. The latter is higher and larger. Often in these models, the saddle is located higher. Speed indicators are higher than on female models. Such bicycles also differ in design: they are decorated in darker colors and have pointed corners.
Merida Big.Nine 100
Variant on Merida TFS aluminum frame and hydraulic disc brakes. The 29-inch wheels have lightweight tires and double rims. The rear hub is equipped with a 9-star cassette. For ease of shock absorption, the fork has a locking function. The hardtail is suitable for cross-country riding (27 speeds).
This mountain bike features smooth seams and a tapered head tube. Thanks to the first one, it may seem that the frame is made of carbon. For convenience, an internal footrest is used. The bike comes in 4 frame sizes for men with different heights. Internal wiring cables are rigidly fixed but easily accessible for maintenance.
PROS:
- lightweight frame;
- rolling rubber;
- full hitch;
- hydraulic brakes;
- comfortable steering wheel.
MINUSES:
- there is a buzz from tires when driving on the highway;
- the sidewall wears out quickly;
- handling is impaired at low speeds.
STELS Navigator 640 D 26 V010
The mountain bike Stels Navigator 640 D 26 V010 is equipped with a disc hydraulic brake system and wheels with a diameter of 26 inches. The frame is made of aluminum, which has reduced the weight of the bike to 15 kg. Therefore, it is well suited for both city and cross-country travel. For a comfortable and safe ride, the model is complemented by a suspension fork. It is made of aluminum and a hoist. The fork travel is adjustable.
The mountain bike has 24 gears. The drivetrain is entry-level and has a simple design. Taiwanese knots are used for it. Lever type shifters and steel cassette are installed. The bike is equipped with disc brakes and hydraulic drive.
PROS:
- reliable braking system;
- fork with 80 m travel;
- good double rims;
- footrest included;
- relatively light weight.
MINUSES:
- no clear assembly instructions;
- brake fluid may leak.
FORWARD Next 27.5 3.0 Disc
Mountain biking is well suited for urban riding in a sporty style, mountainous terrain and rough terrain. The diameter of the wheels is 27.5 inches. Available in three frame sizes, which are made of aluminum alloy. Has a sporty fit for active riding and travel. The shock absorbing fork is made of aluminum, has hydraulic locking and preload adjustment.
The bike has hydraulic disc brakes. They allow you to smoothly regulate the braking force and have good modulation. There is a possibility of attaching the trunk, to the frame - a bottle cage and a pump. There are reflectors that make the cyclist more visible to other road users.
PROS:
- it picks up speed on a small slope;
- has massive tires and a wide handlebar;
- complete with wings and reflectors;
- nice matte black color.
MINUSES:
- sometimes pedals spin;
- unreliable attachment of the wings.
Best women's mountain bikes
Women's mountain bikes have a tall top tube for tricky moves, but the front triangle is usually shortened. These bikes have short cranks for a comfortable ride. They have narrower handlebars and softer springs in the shock absorbers. Women's bicycles are also lighter.
Stinger Latina D 26
Mountain bike Stinger Latina D 26 is equipped with disc brakes for quick braking. Implemented in a steel frame and a fork in the body of the same material. The transmission is designed with a three-star system. the bike has a reduced weight and a lightweight narrow saddle. The wheels are equipped with reliable tires with a diameter of 26 inches.
The bike is available in two frame sizes, 17 and 15 inches. The number of speeds is 18.The handlebars have a curved design and adjustable lift. For convenience, there is a footrest.
PROS:
- easy to manage;
- suitable for city driving and rough terrain;
- fenders included;
- low price.
MINUSES:
- no assembly instructions included;
- the wings have poor attachment.
STELS Miss 5000 MD 26 V010
An inexpensive women's bike with a dynamic shape and bright color. Suitable for entry-level drivers. Available in two sizes, 15 and 17 inches, and has a front suspension fork. The frame is made of steel, but thanks to the complete set, the bike is lightweight. The use of steel was driven by the need to improve wear resistance. The suspension fork has a spring-elastomer mechanism.
Front and rear derailleurs are installed. The wheel rims are double, made of aluminum. The wheels are 26 "and 1.95" wide. For the convenience of parking, the model is complemented by a footrest.
PROS:
- low price;
- comfortable saddle;
- good braking system;
- there is a footrest.
MINUSES:
- heavy;
- uncomfortable frame;
- plastic pedals.
STARK Luna 26.1 D
The STARK Luna 26.1 D bike is well suited for the city, trips outside the city or on light off-road. The mountain bike is equipped with a durable and lightweight aluminum frame made from round tubes. Its size is 14.5 or 18 inches. The bike has 21 speeds. It has a mechanical disc brake. The fork is made of steel and has a spring design that makes it easy to overcome bumps and small stones.
The steering wheel is made of steel, height adjustable. The wheels are supplemented with a double rim, rubber with a universal tread pattern. Wheel dimensions - 26 inches, CT-1201 2.1 ″ tires are installed.
PROS:
- lightweight model;
- comfortable fit;
- well regulated;
- good braking system.
MINUSES:
- flimsy connections;
- plastic pedals.
Best folding mountain bikes
Folding mountain bikes are convenient for transportation, often do not have a front triangle of the frame, so they are convenient for men and women. This is a universal type of transport that suits people of different heights. It is usually easy to fold these types in half: you need to lower the saddle, turn the handlebars and fold the frame towards it. Expensive models are complemented by special hinges, but have increased weight.
STELS Pilot 970 MD 26 V022
The folding bike from Stels is equipped with a reliable frame that can withstand serious loads. For its production, an aluminum alloy of grade 7005 was taken. It is distinguished by its durability and wear resistance. The bike is available in 17.5 and 19 inches frames. The suspension fork is a threadless semi-integrated model with an integrated spring mechanism. Has a lock.
Mechanical disc brakes, there are 21 speeds. The steering wheel has a comfortable curved design. The bike belongs to the amateur variety, suitable for driving on trails of medium difficulty.
PROS:
- idle folding system;
- interesting colors;
- comfortable handles.
MINUSES:
- supplied without mud flaps;
- there are no assembly keys included.
STARK Cobra 29.3 HD
Mountain bike with 24 speeds. Aluminum frame, available in 18 "and 20" sizes. Has a spring-elastomer plug, there is an option to lock it. Its stroke is 100 mm. Wheels are 29 inches, double rims are made of aluminum alloy.
Installed sports disc hydraulic brakes. The rear derailleur is for passenger use, the front derailleur is the initial one. The steering wheel has a comfortable curved shape and comes with a footrest.
PROS:
- good dynamic qualities;
- convenient folding mechanism;
- stable in management;
- easy gear shifting.
MINUSES:
- pedals do not fold;
- some kits do not have bushing fixing.
STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V010
The model is available in two standard sizes 17.5 and 19 inches, has 26 inches wheels. The frame is made of aluminum, the suspension fork is made of steel. Suitable for workouts, commuting or commuting. Has a 21-speed transmission.The mountain bike is equipped with a mechanical disc brake system. Complemented with side step.
PROS:
- quick folding;
- lightweight frame;
- quality tires;
- double wheel rims;
- good smooth running.
MINUSES:
- unreliable front brake;
- the saddle is not suitable for everyone.
What to look for when choosing a mountain bike
When choosing, several parameters are taken into account:
Frame size must match the height of the driver. For example, sizes up to 35 cm are relevant for children from 135 to 155 cm. There are models for short adult athletes, the average cyclist, and tall people. Less popular models for those taller than 2 m. For them, a frame size of 24 inches or 61 cm is selected.
Frame material. Steel is one of the inexpensive options, it is characterized by increased strength, excellent vibration absorption. Cons - susceptibility to corrosion and heavy weight. Aluminum is more expensive, but prized for its light weight and durability. There are expensive titanium models. They have no drawbacks, they are focused on a long service life.
Wheel parameters must match the height. Many mountain bikes come with 26-inch options. You can increase the diameter by thickening the tires. This can be done to improve flotation. Wheels with rims of 20-24 inches are suitable for teenagers. For tall people, 28-29 inch models are well suited.
Brake system. It can be rim or disc. The first type involves clamping the wheels on both sides. This slows down their rotation. The downside is the need to periodically change the pads. Such options are not reliable if the wheel becomes wet or too dirty. The discs are able to provide the required braking regardless of the presence of precipitation or air temperature. Such models assume that the pads are pressed against the rotor, which is fixed to the wheel axle.
Transmission. The more gears on the bike, the easier it will be for a person to adapt to changes in the track, for example, ups and downs. In "advanced" models, their number can be up to 21.
By type of depreciation mountain bikes are divided into:
- Rigid. There is no suspension on it, so it is suitable for small trips on light roads.
- Hardtail. Has a hard "tail", devices to reduce vibration loads on the hands.
- Two-suspension. They have shock absorption on the front and rear wheels.
If necessary, you can always increase the efficiency of the vehicle by using additional devices or devices.
Which mountain bike is better to choose
When choosing for many, appearance is important. It allows you to emphasize individuality. Many models are suitable not only for cross-country driving, but also for walking around the city. Go for mud tires if you plan on driving more out of town, slick tires are suitable for bike paths and for smooth asphalt.
Professional athletes recommend finding a balance between quality and quantity when choosing the number of speeds. Often a small amount is sufficient. When choosing, pay attention to the presence of shields, footrests. There are options with a basket and a trunk.
When studying, focus on the price: the higher it is, the more technologically advanced the transport. The cost of entry-level and intermediate-level models is up to 25 thousand rubles, the price of professional ones is often higher than 150 thousand rubles.
