20 best mountain bikes

Mountain bike belongs to the class of sports equipment for outdoor activities. It is intended for driving primarily on off-road terrain, but due to its excellent appearance and technical characteristics, it is also purchased for city driving. The main differences between a mountain bike and track and road models are a hardened frame, a raised carriage to increase ground clearance, and a wide and grippy tire tread.

There are hundreds of different mountain bike models currently available. Each of them has characteristic advantages and disadvantages inherent in a strictly defined line and manufacturer. Choosing the best is not easy. However, having studied the characteristics of mountain bikes, having read hundreds of positive and negative user reviews, the opinions of recognized experts in the field, as well as people who are professionally involved in mountain bikes, we have selected worthy models that should be given priority attention.

Top mountain bike manufacturers

Like any other category, the mountain bike market has its own top brands. There are not many of them, but the quality of the mountain bikes they produce has been confirmed by thousands of happy users, including real professionals. Some of the best MTB manufacturers include:

• STELS. It is a Russian manufacturing company owned by the large Velomotors holding, which dates back to 1996. Bicycles of this brand, including mountain bicycles, are very popular in the world market, which is confirmed by high sales figures.
• FORWARD. Another Russian manufacturer of bicycles, bicycle parts and their components. The start of mass production of products took place in 1999, and now mountain bikes of this brand take part in elite mountain bike competitions, which indicates their high quality and performance.
• CUBE. Only good things can be said about CUBE products. The German cycling giant is a permanent participant in the prestigious European bicycle exhibition Eurobike, and this best reflects the level of their products.
• Giant. The Taiwanese firm is one of the largest bicycle manufacturers. Since 1972, it has built more than 10 factories around the world and today is considered one of the best manufacturers, including mountain bikes, in the world.
• Merida. The Taiwanese firm is Giant's main competitor for market share not only in its home country but around the globe. Unlike its opponent, Merida actively sponsors cycling teams at prestigious competitions, which allows them to promote their products to the masses.

Best inexpensive mountain bikes: budget up to 12,000 rubles

4 Stinger Element D 26

An entry-level cross-country bike with moderate trail riding performance. Recommended for those who are just starting to master the basics of movement on mountainous terrain and off-road, without pretending to competitive disciplines. The drivetrain is comprised of entry-level Shimano derailleurs and STG bogie cages - a body kit that can't withstand frequent off-road rides. The brakes are a little more serious, but they are also not sharpened for aggressive use.

At first impressions, it seems that the price of the Stinger Element D 26 is somewhat overestimated: consumers classify the model as ordinary and more often than they want, they notice minor malfunctions in it. Of course, all this can be solved through custom upgrades, but additional financial investments are not what you want to get from a mountain bike. The 2019 model received a new type of bearing mount - aheadset or, otherwise, threadless, which is considered more durable than threaded.The brakes have also changed - instead of vibrating racks, the developers have installed more modern, disc ones. The wheels have become much stronger due to the double rims. It seems that the company took into account the wishes and heeded the criticism, modifying the previous design and thereby providing it with much better technical characteristics, however, without raising the price by about 1000 rubles. not done.

3 Novatrack Shark 20 6 (2017)

Playful bike races in the yard, fun riding in the park and outside the city, exciting trips with parents on easy off-road - what kind of adventures become available to a child who has become the proud owner of a real mountain bike! We are sure that the best way to introduce your child to sports, as soon as he is 7 years old, is to present a Shark bike from Novatrack. Why this particular model? Firstly, it looks unrealistically cool, be it in blue-green or white-red colors, so the child will definitely be proud of her. Secondly, this is a two-suspension bike, that is, it is provided with shock absorption on both wheels, which means that it will be much easier to drive it on bumps.

Another plus - 20-inch wheels with adjustable height of the handlebar and saddle give a noticeable reserve of the bike's service, taking into account the rapid growth of its owner: at least up to 10 years, you don't have to think about a new bike. The complete set is also pleasing: 6 speeds, 2 brakes, good rubber, plastic fenders and protection of the shifting mechanism. All elements work flawlessly, so there is no complaint about the quality in the reviews. The only thing that you should pay attention to before buying is 14 kg of weight, and if there is no elevator, then physical activity is provided for the parents as well.

2 Desna 2610 V

In the 70s, millions of Soviet boys dreamed of Desna bicycles, and the mention of this brand still evokes a feeling of slight nostalgia. With the purchase of the Zhukovsky plant by the Velomotors company, its former glory returned to it with the only difference that the bikes began to be produced by modern robots from pipe-rolling of their own production and painted with liquid enamels on production lines that are unique for Russian companies. Still remaining in the budget segment, the company was able to offer several dozen successful bicycle models, including the Desna 2610 V.

For a very modest amount, the buyer does not receive some kind of "ashanbike", but a functional mountain bike with an exhaustive set, which does not need to be upgraded for ordinary trips. Classic steel triangle frame, perfectly welded and painted in 3 layers, internal cables, threadless steering column, cartridge carriage, tires with increased width - all the prerequisites for trouble-free and long-term operation are provided. You can find fault with the quality of the brake rotors, you can blame the lack of fenders and the stiffness of the seat, but the fact that the bike is inexpensive, reliable and able to serve its owner faithfully for many seasons is an indisputable fact.

When choosing a mountain bike, you should pay attention to a number of basic characteristics, on which the duration of the bike's operation and the general impression of the ride depend.

Soft fork level. Divided into four categories:

• First level. It is represented by the most simple shock-absorbing forks in design. They do not have special adjustments that greatly affect the performance, and over time they acquire hardness or softness, depending on the specific model of the bike. Mountain bikes with an entry-level soft fork are ideal for light off-road riding or leisurely city cycling.
• Walking level. Characterizes models with a stroke of 60 millimeters or more. In forks of this level, stiffness regulators are actively used, as well as (optionally and selectively) other types of adjustments. With them, you can comfortably navigate more difficult off-road routes.
• Sports level. Typical for bicycles used for intense training.There are much more settings and adjustments here than on the first two levels, and with proper maintenance, such forks are often able to serve for several seasons (with periodic skiing).
• Professional level. This is the most advanced class of surebets with a huge functionality of settings. Their use is advisable only for serious mountain biking, since only they are able to withstand the most aggressive type of driving on impassable off-road.

Rear derailleur level. Currently, almost all of the world's leading mountain bike manufacturers use hinged derailleurs from the Japanese company Shimano, the Italian Campagnolo and the American SRAM for their products. Unlike the first paragraph, it is divided into five categories:

• Entry-level (and display applications). This type of rear derailleur adjustment should be done every 150-500 kilometers, depending on the specific model. Its cost is low, but the overall quality of the components is poor.
• Walking level. Switches of this type have low wear resistance, but they are slightly more expensive than the initial ones. These include Shimano Deore, AceraX, SRAM Centera, SX4, etc. They must be adjusted every 300-3000 kilometers.
• Sports level. It is characterized by high wear resistance and an average price. These include Shimano Saint, Hone, SRAM X.7, Attack and others. They are designed for recreational athletes who use the mountain bike in moderate off-road conditions for periodic functional training. Without the inclusion of additional regulators and special settings, they are able to walk at least five thousand kilometers.
• Semi-professional level. This is a conditional category, separated from the professional one, but not included in the sports level. Combines high quality switch and price level approaching the best models.
• Professional level. This includes Shimano XTR and SRAM X.0 derailleurs. Used by professional athletes to compete and pass the most difficult off-road sections. They are characterized by the highest level of wear resistance and an exorbitant cost. However, as is the case with sports switches, more than five thousand kilometers can be walked without adjustments.

1 FORWARD Sporting 27.5 1.0 (2019)

Despite a certain amount of criticism, the bicycles of the Russian Forward brand are popular, especially the Sporting model, which received new 27.5 ″ wheels in 2019. Not that it is the best, rather, it is bought for further improvement - fortunately, all the parts can be purchased from previous collections at good discounts. But even in the basic delivery, the bike at this price leaves a pleasant impression: it has a striking design, is quite light, despite the fact that the frame is steel, not aluminum, it is delivered almost completely assembled - you only need to put the steering wheel and wheel on the eccentric and screw the pedals.

One of the main motives for buying this particular bike is that the equipment is quite solid for the budget category and the equipment is not poor. The firm does not admit any no-name: shifters from MicroSHIFT (this brand is called the Shimano killer, its products are used by such cycling giants as Giant and Cannondale), Tourney derailleurs (not the best option for real mountain bikes, but quite reliable for city trips), KMC chain and etc. Of the minuses, users mention a rather unassuming 1.0 hitch and a standard saddle, although comfortable, but the quality of the upholstery is below average.

Best 26-inch mountain bikes

26 "is the standard mountain bike wheel size. This is due to design features, as well as a direct impact on the passability of the track. In professional sports, wheels of different diameters are used for different mountain biking disciplines. In mountain bikes, the default size is 26 inches.

4 STELS Navigator 650 D 26 V010

Another representative of mountain bike transport for the "Catalans" who do not pretend to participate in the Tour of Switzerland in the Alps, but are happy to open new routes in their native lands. Park, forest, soil, roadway, snow and even ice - thanks to studded rubber with aggressive tread, Stealth tolerates all types of roads, despite the fact that not all attachments belong to well-known brands. For example, the Nutt hydraulic brakes, although made by a Chinese brand, provide deceleration smoothly, without pressing all the way.

The manufacturer supplied the front and rear derailleurs of a very decent level - Shimano Altus FD-M310 and Acera RD-M360, and the bike is supplied to the buyer with all the necessary settings, and they switch like a clock. In general, the device turned out to be universal - for business trips and "pokatushek" it is quite suitable and durable. It would be a little cheaper, and the kit would have such necessary little things as keys and fenders, it would take the first positions in the rating.

3 Giant Revel 2

The popularity of the mountain bike Giant Revel 2 can only compete with the most budgetary models of simple city bikes. Where this demand came from is unknown. Characteristically, this is a rather modest touring bike, intended more for beginners than for amateurs or professional athletes. But in the conditions of city driving, it turns into a comfort class mountain bike. In particular, many users note a smooth ride, quick acceleration and ease of control, even at high speeds. The only really serious flaw is an unfortunate admission by the developers - since the 2013 model, the Shimano Alivio rear canopy has been replaced by a Shimano Tourney.

Advantages:

• construction weight 14 kilograms;
• good handling;
• great design;
• fast set of speed.

Disadvantages:

• an annoying replacement of a good rear derailleur for a less classy one.

2 Stinger Caiman 26

The Cayman line is available in 4 sizes and 4 color options and serves the main idea: to stay in the budget category, but at the same time provide the proper level of comfort and reliability during the trip. The model is completed on the basis of a strong and rigid frame made of high-alloy steel and includes an 18-speed transmission from Shimano components, a shock-absorbing spring-elastomer STG fork with a travel of 50 mm, wheels on double aluminum rims from Felgebeiter. In order not to list all the elements, we characterize them as follows: a solid entry level.

Let's be honest, this bike is not suitable for throwing dust in the eyes - it is not a trotter for racing, but rather a workhorse for comfortable movement to the country, to the office and home. However, the model is quite suitable for a novice cyclist in order to master the first thousand kilometers on small irregularities, and then, most likely, the thought of an upgrade will come to him. If you do not demand the impossible from the bike, while driving through mountainous regions, it will faithfully work out every penny spent in the rain and snow.

1 Merida Matts 6.15-MD

"Merida" belongs to those companies that guarantee excellent quality of even the most budget models, including Matts 6.15-MD. Its frame is made of sturdy aluminum alloy, which reduces the weight of the bike to 14.6 kg. The Suntour XCT suspension forks are good enough to tackle moderately rough terrain, while the Jake J8 disc brakes provide short stopping distances, are easy to operate and do not need regular adjustments.

The 24-speed transmission system, which, judging by the components, lasts long enough for the model to become boring to its owner, deserves commendable marks. If such an opportunity happens, there is no need to rush to get rid of it - a completely new sensation from the trail is provided by replacing the complete fork with an air one.In general, the model turned out to be quite versatile - it is suitable for both beginners and more advanced bike bikers who plan to upgrade it later.

Best 29-inch mountain bikes (niners)

Niners have gained their fame quite recently. Of course, you won't surprise anyone with the size of the wheel for a long time, but in this case the emphasis was by no means on the appearance. The fact is that larger wheels have better cross-country ability than standard 26-inch wheels, are more stable, and also perceive the roadway differently.

4 STELS Navigator 930 MD 29 V010

The 930th model appeared on the market back in 2014 with a very budgetary price tag of 14 thousand rubles. But in 2016 it soared to almost 40 thousand, and with all the merits of the niner from Stealth, there were fewer hunters to acquire it. Now "Navigator-930" can be acquired, having stocked up about 25 thousand, and this price is recognized as reasonable by both potential buyers and owners of the device for several years. They like the ability to change to 29 ", accelerate to 60 km / h at 3-10, use hydraulic brakes - after 26" and V-brake, this kind of riding feels completely different.

The male geometry aluminum frame is welded reliably, withstanding road obstacles for a long time without cracking and fatigue accumulation. Attachments supplied from Shimano, Tourney series. Suspension fork SUNTOUR XCT (stroke length from 100 to 150 mm) and an ergonomic saddle allows you to ride on shallow bumps without harm to the body. If we compare the price of a domestic mountain bike with an analogue of foreign production with the same technical characteristics and configuration, the purchase of Stealth will turn out to be much more profitable.

3 Merida Big.Nine 40-D

The Merida Big.Nine 40-D can be safely classified as a sport mountain bike. The sport-grade spring-oil fork provides up to 100 millimeters of travel, which is acceptable even for tricky off-road conditions. Its resource without additional adjustments is enough for three thousand kilometers, after which it becomes much tougher. Despite how calm the bike takes off-road, the dirt test is simply disgusting. After a series of such rentals, a deterioration in general condition and driving performance can be expected. In general, for such a build, the price of the bike looks a bit overpriced.

Advantages:

• good sports bike;
• comfort when driving on dry terrain;
• 27 speeds;
• fork pitch of 100 millimeters.

Disadvantages:

• requires immediate service after a "dirt test";
• high price.

2 Cube AIM Pro 29 (2019)

The German company "Cube" produces a huge range of bicycles, the most popular of which is the AIM Pro model with 29-inch wheels. Professionals consider it to be the primary amateur class, but admit that its capabilities are enough to develop speed performance and maintain good physical shape in cycling. The mountain bike is mounted on an aluminum frame with internal cable routing, equipped with an updated version of Tektro sports hydraulic brakes, an entry-level amateur-level Shimano 24-speed transmission, a Suntour shock with up to 100 mm travel.

The bike easily overcomes ups and downs, provides perfect pedaling on any terrain, at the same time good roll and flawless grip due to high-quality Schwalbe tires. The manufacturer also took care of the rider's comfort, offering the Cube Active 1.1 sports saddle in stock. It is filled with Flex Foam, a flexible structural foam that easily conforms to the desired shape, and the cover is made of a waterproof synthetic material that provides proper durability. Steel frame with pre-printed adjustment scale facilitates seat installation.

1 Specialized Men’s Chisel Comp

Specialized is the undisputed leader of the cycle market, famous for its constant striving for development. It is practically the only one of the firms that is engaged in the development and implementation of new materials, structures and technologies in production.Moreover, the company has created many professional mountain teams that not only advertise the brand, but also constantly test its products and contribute to its improvement. Hesh was the first to notice the benefits of the Twintiners and made great strides in improving them, expressed in the latest 2019 Chisel.

The Comp version is a purebred mountain bike, the younger brother of the fastest bike in the world Epic HT, but devoid of extreme factor, and therefore completely suitable for out-of-town walks in the style of "where the eyes are looking." The mountain bike inherited from the "family" the geometry of the frame, which is made of aluminum, not carbon fiber, while the patented D'Aluisio Smartweld welding technology provides amazing indicators of strength and rigidity with a minimum weight - the frame in size M weighs 1.35 kg, and the entire bike is complete - just over 11 kg. Attachments matched in good faith: RockShox Judy Solo Air fork, Deore MT500 hydraulic disc brakes, rims with an inner width of 25 mm, Gripton tires. The result is a vehicle that is perfectly controllable, predictable at speed, stable on descents and definitely worth the money.

Best women's mountain bikes

The division of mountain bikes into men and women occurs only in terms of appearance and overall size. As a rule, softer and more delicate colors are used for painting women's bicycles, and their size range often ends at 20-inch frames. In terms of technical equipment, they are in no way inferior to men's mountain bikes, and the price level for the models is about the same.

4 ALTAIR MTB HT 26 1.0 Lady

The fact that the model is female, in addition to the name, suggests the configuration of the frame. Its upper tube is somewhat underestimated, which makes the whole structure much more convenient and safer. In other respects, a mountain bike is no different from a man's: it has a bright sporty look, modern equipment (shock absorber, multi-speed transmission system, rim brakes), as well as the ability to replace and upgrade it if desired.

Despite the low cost, there are no no name components in the design, and the indicated trademarks, although Chinese, are quite popular and are often used on bicycles of the same class. According to users, the quality of the model is acceptable, one can only complain about the complexity of the assembly, and even then in the absence of little experience and a set of keys. And if you take into account that almost all the necessary accessories like reflectors and fenders come with ALTAIR in the box, then the claims are completely removed.

3 STELS Miss 6000 V 26

STELS Miss 6000 V 26 is the simplest and at the same time the most popular women's bike. It was created exclusively for city cycling and light off-roading. The set of speed is low, as well as its maximum value. The overall build quality is acceptable without any frills. Shimano sheds work properly, but after some time, any of the switches may fail, and this, alas, is not a one-time case.

Advantages:

• pleasant appearance;
• comfort when moving;
• good handling;
• low cost.

Disadvantages:

• heavy (14.8 kilograms);
• not very good quality of awnings.

2 Stinger Latina 26 (2018)

According to popular women's magazines, the best way to stay in shape is to cycle more often in the park at a fast pace. Mountain bike "Latina" is an excellent addition to a subscription to a fitness club. Fast, maneuverable, rolling and, finally, simply beautiful, he confidently overcomes bumps and rushes forward, giving a lot of pleasure to the cyclist.

The bike is designed with simple and reliable entry-level bike mechanics from the global Shimano brand. It is installed in a steel frame, the geometry of which is designed for daily travel in a comfortable rhythm. Z-AXIS tires are versatile and fully functional on both asphalt and ground. Along with the bike itself, the kit also includes mud flaps, a footrest and reflectors.The model is sent in a box with a total weight of 19 kg disassembled, but the assembly is intuitive, and even graceful female hands will cope with it in half an hour.

1 FORWARD Seido 26 1.0 (2018)

The mountain bike "Seido" is distinguished by a lowered frame, comfortable for landing, light weight, graceful shapes - the Forward company knows how to attract the female half. And outwardly, the model with white wings and a stylish saddle is very remarkable whether in blue (rather, turquoise), pink, yellow or green.

From a technical point of view, the quality of the bike is also quite high: the gear selector works well, there are no complaints about the work of the brakes, the shock absorbers in the front provide a soft exit from the curbs. The installed equipment belongs to the 1st class, while, as it should be, the Japanese "Shimano" works out more than 500 km of the resource. If there are any issues related to bicycle mechanics, they are promptly, within 2-3 days, resolved by the service center. His work is often noted positively in reviews.

The best mountain hybrids

Mountain hybrid bikes are a cross between mountain bikes and road bikes. They combine the characteristics of both sides, making them ideal for mixed tracks. Of course, hybrids cannot compete with class bikes, and this is their main drawback.

4 Author Classic

The proud representative of the new line of bikes from the Czech company Author, based on the use of a walking kit. The main advantage of the Classic is that it makes the most of the less advanced body kit, performing well in amateur and semi-professional competitions. You are not mistaken: this bike is indeed considered for semi-professional use due to its good design, ease of repair and the possibility of personal tweaking.

The disadvantage of the Author Classic as a walking hard tail can be called the fork travel shortened to 60 millimeters. As noted by users who managed to test the bike in practice, this nuance noticeably changes the strategy for overcoming terrain with variable terrain. The cost of the model, taking into account all aspects, seems slightly overestimated, but in terms of applicability, it simply cannot be insisted on.

3 Merida Crossway 20-D

Merida knows its business very well. Creating a mountain hybrid with not the most outstanding components and technical characteristics, they very deliberately decided to play on the ergonomics and comfort of the model. Having, to put it mildly, canopies of average durability, the hybrid offers the user a set of the steering column for the outward and upward movement, as well as a shock-absorbing seatpost, making the already soft seat a kind of vibration damper. This is a great recreational bike designed for fast road travel and aggressive off-road exits. But, alas, he does not reach the title of sports.

Advantages:

• exceptional comfort;
• good workmanship;
• pleasant appearance;
• 24 speeds.

Disadvantages:

• the presence of entry-level canopies.

2 Giant Roam 2 Disc

The Giant Roam 2 Disc is a hard tail designed for driving on highways and challenging off-road terrains. In general, the users of this bike are satisfied with the handling, and the margin of safety when passing difficult sections, and the appearance, not devoid of corporate sophistication. Despite the average walking-level body kits, the mountain hybrid shows its best side, and the price for such a model is quite acceptable. There are no particular drawbacks here.

Advantages:

• good roll-forward, handling and road feel;
• high reliability noted by users;
• good appearance;
• availability of 27 speeds.

Disadvantages:

• not found.

1 Merida Crossway 40-D (2019)

The first thing that catches the eye of a person familiar with Merida bicycles in this model is the unusual Crossway Speed ​​frame construction.It is made of aluminum, and there are no innovations in this, but the developers have worked hard on molding the pipes and thereby improved not only the aesthetic component, but the driving characteristics in general. After modernization, the device has become much more versatile in terms of speed and, at the same time, ride comfort.

The bike is equipped with a reliable Suntour fork with its full lock on the right "leg". This means that the vehicle can be adapted to road conditions or provide a decent acceleration speed, close to that of road bikes. In addition, from the road bike, the hybrid got 28 "wheels with all their advantages: maximum coasting, stability and almost no shaking on potholes.