How to Choose a Mountain Bike

Mountain bikes range from $780 to $5,500 on this site alone, and the differences are not evenly distributed. Frame and suspension quality account for most of the gap, while some expensive components deliver very little that a rider will notice.

1. 1

   Decide hardtail or full suspension

   A hardtail has front suspension only — lighter, cheaper, simpler to maintain, and it teaches line choice because you feel every mistake. Full suspension is faster and more comfortable on rough terrain and costs roughly $700-1,000 more for equivalent component quality. On smoother trails, a good hardtail beats a cheap full suspension every time.

   Hardtail vs full suspensionWhich suits your trails and budget

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2. 2

   Match travel to terrain

   Travel is how far the suspension compresses. 100-120mm is cross-country and light trail. 130-150mm is the trail range that suits most riders on most terrain. 160mm and up is enduro territory — more capable descending and noticeably worse climbing. Buying more travel than your trails need makes the bike slower everywhere else.

3. 3

   Wheel size is mostly settled

   29in wheels roll over obstacles more easily and carry speed better; 27.5in accelerates faster and feels more playful. Many bikes now come in both, and some use a 29in front with 27.5in rear. For most riders on most terrain, 29in is the default and the difference is smaller than forum debate suggests.

4. 4

   Spend on frame, fork, and brakes

   These three determine how a bike rides and are expensive to upgrade later. Drivetrains and wheels are easier and cheaper to improve over time. A bike with a good frame and fork and a modest drivetrain is a better purchase than the reverse.

   What components matterWhere the money is well spent

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5. 5

   Get the fit right before anything else

   Frame size, reach, and standover determine whether the bike is comfortable and controllable. A well-fitted $900 bike is more enjoyable than a badly fitted $3,000 one. Test ride if at all possible, and buy from somewhere that will adjust the fit after purchase.

Quick Picks by Budget