Best Mountain Bike Under 300 USD

Last Updated on March 10, 2022

Mountain biking is for everyone.

Although some might say you need to buy premium parts to make the most out of the sport. This doesn’t always have to be the case. There are a lot of ways to enjoy mountain biking without breaking your bank.

Just make sure that you don’t go on the extreme side of the sport to ensure safety. You can get a cheap mountain bike for light exercise. Or maybe you need transportation to go from point A to point B.

Whichever the case is, there’s no denying that mountain bikes are what you need.

In this article, we’ll be showing you the best mountain bike under 300. We’ll also show you the factors to consider before getting one, and if a budget bike is a good match for you.

Kent Pomona

The Kent Pomona is one of our best picks when it comes to the best mountain bikes under 300 because of its practical and functional features that provide beginner mountain bikers a good feel of the trails. This is designed for leisure biking because of its thin tubes and versatile geometry. You can take it wherever you want as long as the terrain isn’t too gnarly.

Highlight features

This mountain bike features a full-suspension frame made from premium high-tensile steel that is powered by a Micro Shift 7 -speed twist shifter drivetrain. This makes it very beginner-friendly and convenient.

You will find a steel crown suspension fork upfront that soaks up trail bumps and pavement potholes. Meanwhile, its 26-inch tires are running on double wall alloy rims alongside 36 spokes.

It comes with V-brakes which makes it very affordable, simple, and requires little maintenance. Its stock coil fork comes with 80 mm of travel while its tires have low-profile knobs.

Pros

  • Full suspension frame
  • Smooth-shifting
  • Sleek aesthetics

Cons

  • Weak brakes
  • Small wheels
  • Heavy

Mongoose Stasis Comp

Mongoose nailed it this time with their budget full-sus mountain bike called the Stasis Comp. This is a full suspension bike that is meant for mellow trails and slight downhills. It has a four-bar linkage that is efficient in going down steep sections. It might be a bit hard to pedal uphill. But you can avoid this by just adding a little more PSI on the tires.

It comes in a matte red finish that adds class and elegance to its looks. This bike is also easy to maneuver thanks to its nimble 26-inch wheels. This one’s for you if you’d like to know what riding a full-sus bike feels like.

This bike has a hybrid drivetrain composed of a Shimano rear derailleur and SRAM twist shifters. The front wheel has a quick-release setup. It’s also got alloy wheels and 140 mm disc brakes for hard braking on steep trails.

Pros

  • Full-suspension setup
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Aggressive geometry

Cons

  • Small wheels
  • Unrideable on rough trails
  • Thin tires

Mongoose Excursion

Mongoose is here again with another budget mountain bike which they call the Excursion. This is a great choice if you are looking for your first mountain bike because it has all the features and functionality of a premium trail thrasher despite its entry-level components.

This has an aggressive geometry with slack tube angles, making it ideal for light downhill trails. It’s also similar to the slack geometry of dirt bikes making it very agile and nimble when doing tricks. But what sets the deal for this one is the 24-inch wheels that makes it very easy to play some tricks and maneuver it on tight technical sections.

Highlight features

It has an all out steel frame paired with hydraulic disc brake with 140 mm rotors upfront and a v-brake at the rear, making it very handy. It’s also got a 21-speed drivetrain connected that goes hand in hand with its front suspension fork.

Pros

  • Agile and nimble
  • Aggressive geometry
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Small wheels
  • Weak braking

Nashbar AT1

The Nashbar AT1 is the cheapest mountain bike on this list. But don’t take it lightly because this one’s packed with some serious durability. Its frame is made from pure steel which makes it a bit heavy.

But this also means it can take some serious beating. This also comes in 3 different sizes which are 17, 19, and 21.

It’s a smart choice if you’re into riding paved roads because of its fast-rolling hardtail mechanism. Just be a bit careful when using it on the trails because it’ll surely be a bumpy ride.

Highlight features

The frame is made from pure steel, has v-brakes, and an all-stock 80 mm coil fork. Its drivetrain is a Shimano 3×7 speed and the wheels are all rim brakes.

Pros

  • Fast-rolling
  • Sleek minimalist design
  • Durable constructions

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Thin tubes
  • Uncomfortable to ride on trails

Hybike HYX1

The Hybike HYX1 is another choice if you are looking for a budget mountain bike you can use both in the trails and paved roads.

What is nice about this is that you don’t have to spend a lot of cash just to get a decent-specced bike.

It might be a bit heavier compared to other choices because of its steel frame, but this makes up for the durability and longevity that are not present in other lighter bikes. It’s a must-have if you’re still starting and are confused about what kind of bike you should have.

This might be called a budget bike, but there is nothing wrong with that knowing that it’s already got 27.5-inch wheels featuring aluminum multi spokes. It already has a front fork for its suspension.

It might not be the best because it’s not that flexible, but it’s enough to handle small road bumps. The HYX1 has a 21-speed system which is enough for reliable shifting.

This goes along with a mechanical dual disc brake system providing the needed braking power on downhill sections. It weighs around 38 lbs. and is ideal for riders who have a height of 5’6 to 6’, thanks to its medium-large-sized frame.

Pros

  • Durable frame
  • Made for slightly rugged terrains
  • Sizing

Cons

  • Aesthetics
  • Heavy fork

Avasta Mountain Bike

The Avasta Mountain Bike is one of the best choices if you are looking for a hardtail mountain bike and you’re on a budget.

This is a budget mountain bike that can handle cycling on paved roads and light trails because of its lightweight versatility.

You’ll find this aesthetically pleasing as well because it has a youthful cyan color. But this one is more than just looks as it also comes with value-added features.

What’s nice about this is that its frame is made from lightweight aluminum, making it durable and light. It also has a stock suspension fork that absorbs bumps and vibrations on rough roads.

It might not be in sync with the latest trend of 29er wheels, but its 26-inch wheels do well, especially if you want a nimble and fun ride.

This goes well on paved roads, light trails, and can even handle mellow downhill sections. What’s even better is that this also has rims made from alloy which ensures a lightweight and durable composition. It already has a disc brake system needed for precise braking.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Nimble
  • Colorway

Cons

  • Small 26-inch wheels
  • Speed

Hiland H200

Here comes the Hiland H200. This one is more than just a pretty face because it comes packed with valuable features which are surely a bang for your buck.

If you are looking for an affordable bike you can use as your service or for exercise, then this one might be for you.

This comes with an aluminum frame that gives this a tough and light feel. It also has its suspension fork system ideal for new riders who want to have a taste of some offroad action.

The best thing about the Hiland H200 is not its body, but the components that come with it. You can’t expect to have these on a budget bike.

Take for example its Shimano drivetrain that has a total of 21-speed gears. It makes this a capable machine you can use to climb uphills and go on high-speed road rides.

This also has alloy rims and a special spoke design to ensure balance and stable speeds whichever kind of terrain you ride on.

Pros

  • Aesthetics
  • Suspension system
  • Shimano drivetrain

Cons

  • Slick tires
  • Offroad reliability

Eurobike G4

The Eurobike G4 is a different kind of mountain bike compared to the other more traditional-looking choices in this list. Instead of having the common sideways V-shape of most mountain bike frames, this has a straight single-lined frame.

This happens because it is a folding mountain bike, which means you can fold it anytime you want. It’s a must-have if you don’t have enough space in your home to store it. But despite that, it’s still considered a mountain bike. Just be careful to not use it too much on rough roads.

Highlight features

The Eurobike G4 comes with a 21-speed drivetrain that syncs well with its 26-inch wheels. It might be a bit outdated, but that’s still a large advantage if you are a small rider or if you want a ride that has a poppy and nimble feel to it.

This comes with a Shimano 3×7 drivetrain which has a total of 21-speed gears. You’ll also find 26-inch tires and a mechanical disc brake system with 160 mm disc rotors.

Pros

  • Foldable design
  • Saves space for storage

Cons

  • Unreliable in rough roads
  • Minimal use on trails

Hiland Women’s

If you are a lady and want to hop onto the biking world, then the Hiland Women’s mountain bike might just be for you.

What’s great about this is that you don’t have to spend much to enjoy mountain biking. Its frame is already made from aluminum which means it’s light enough for you to maneuver through trails or if you just want to use it as service around town.

It’s got a low standover height ideal for women and already has dual disc brakes for reliable shifting.

Highlight features

This is a versatile bike ideal for women. After all, it’s labeled as a women’s bike! What better way to back that label up than by having a lockout fork. This means that you can lock the fork so it won’t move if you want to go fast on uphills.

You can then turn it back on if you want a fork that will soak up vibrations on rough roads or uneven asphalt pavement.

What’s great about this bike is that you can choose whether you want the 26-inch wheels or the 27.5. It also has a 3×8 drivetrain, which is enough to help you choose the ideal gear based on your speed and maneuvering skills.

Pros

  • Ideal for women
  • Maneuverability
  • Wheel size options

Cons

  • Small
  • Low ground clearance

Shlia Mountain Bike

Then comes the Shlia Mountain Bike, an affordable bike you can use both on pavement and trails.

Its frame is made from alloy steel, has an electrostatic paint that lowers the chances of rusting, and has an aggressive-looking colorway. This one is a nice choice if you want to look cool and have the needed trail capabilities when mountain biking.

It comes with a 21-speed drivetrain that ensures reliability on speed preference. This is what you need if you want to go fast on the roads, but slowly and surely on technical terrain or when going uphills.

This also has a disc brake system in-store to ensure reliable braking power when hitting steep downhills.

What’s nice about this is that you also have two size options to choose from. You can go for the 26-inch variation if you want a very nimble ride. There is also the bigger 27.5-inch wheel that is great if you want to have a better rollover in case you want to go to the trails.

Another nice feature about this is its rigid fork. It might not be nice if you are riding on very rough roads, but it sure will make you faster if you go on paved and smooth roads because it won’t have to soak up all the bumps in the road. 

Pros

  • Fast on pavement
  • Wheel size options

Cons

  • Comfort
  • Offroad use

Eurobike Bikes X1

The Euro Bikes X1 is another choice you can try. This bike is a budget mountain bike that goes pretty well even on paved roads.

It isn’t sluggish and is still decently light despite its steel frame. It has a front fork that soaks up bumps and vibrations on the roads, which is just what you need if you’re into offroad use.

It’s a great choice if you want a bike that can handle your daily exercise sessions on the road and on light trails. The mountain bike frame is made of high-carbon steel, it is sturdy and durable, which can make your cycling more safety.

The Euro Bikes X1 comes with a 27.5-inch wheelset that works great if you’re into versatility and speed. It’s already the trend these days because its smaller 26er counterparts are already phased out.

Meanwhile, it also has a 3-spoke wheel variation and comes with free pedals and assembly tools. You will also find a 3×7 drivetrain which is enough to keep you in pace when riding on roads and when doing cross-country climbs. 

Pros

  • Large wheels
  • Speed and rollover

Cons

  • Multi-spoke wheels
  • design

Road Cheetah

Road Cheetah made it to our top pick of best budget mountain bikes because of its functionality and practicality.  You can choose between its two size options which are 26ers or 27.5. You can go for the smaller 26er if you are a short rider or if your height is 5’5 or below.

You can then go for the larger 27.5 if you are taller than 5’5. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a mountain bike that you can use for your daily exercise. It also does a good job when it comes to using it as a commute for your daily errands or even going to school or work.

The Road Cheetah deserves a lot of attention in the realm of budget mountain bikes because of its practicality in terms of features, durability, and looks. Its frame is made of aluminum alloy which is lighter than the more common steel frames other bikes on this price range have.

This makes you go faster and makes it easier for you to move through tight trail sections. It has a suspension fork upfront, 160 mm disc brake rotors, and stock stem and handlebar.

You can also find a 3×7 drivetrain that serves as its engine. It might not be the most reliable, but it surely can pack a punch if what you’re after is a bike that can bring you to and from your location.

Pros

  • Design
  • Lightweight
  • Suspension

Cons

  • Downhill reliability

Shlia V2 Mountain Bike

Here comes another Shlia bike. But this time, it’s the Shlia V2, a mountain bike that can be used for offroad use and as a commuter bike.

This has a frame that is made from aluminum alloy, just what you need for a lightweight and maneuverable ride.

It’s got electrostatic paint on its body that protects it from deterioration or rusting. If you are looking for a bike you can use as your daily commuter, but also want to use it for leisure on the weekends without spending much cash on it, then this one’s a good choice for you.

The Shlia V2 comes equipped with a 21-speed drivetrain that provides you with enough gear ratios to help you go through steep uphills with comfort. This is a nice feature because it gives better positioning and helps you keep up with your pace on long rides.

You have two wheel size options to choose from. The first option are the 26ers which is nice if you’re a small rider and you want a nimble ride.

On the other hand, there is also the 27.5-inch option ideal for riders who want to cover longer distances. The wheels are wrapped with Kenda cross-country tires, perfect for long rides on paved roads and on light trails.

Pros

  • Durability
  • Drivetrain reliability
  • Branded tires

Cons

  • Not for downhills

Besportble Mountain Bike

The Besportble Mountain Bike is another one of our top picks for mountains bikes under $300 because of the value of its components and parts.

This is a budget bike that can serve as a commuter bicycle or as a means for you to exercise or explore nearby trails.

It is a nice choice if you don’t want to spend much money on your first bike. Nonetheless, there is no need to worry because this one is packed with features that will make it a bang for your buck.

The Besportble Mountain Bike is one of our best choices because of its Shimano 21-speed drivetrain.

It has a 3×7 speed drivetrain that is enough to keep you going whether it be uphills, downhills, or flat paved road cycling. It surely won’t slow you down if you need to catch up with more speed. This even has a Shimano TZ500 rear derailleur for better reliability.

Another thing to note about this because is that it has 27.5-inch wheels that are wrapped in CST cross-country tires. These tires go fast on paved roads because of their slick texture.

However, they still give you a decent amount of grip when you’re riding on trails. It comes with mudguards to protect you from mud splashes on the front and at the back.

It even comes with repair tools like an Allen key and an open-end wrench so you are always ready in and out of your bike.

Pros

  • Design
  • Versatility
  • Affordability

Cons

  • Frame geometry
  • Components

Conclusion

Riding mountain bikes don’t have to be expensive. What’s important is that you’re having fun and exercising in a healthy way.

Practicality is an important lesson we must follow these days. And one good way to do just that is by getting an affordable bike.

Hopefully, we’ve helped you choose the best mountain bike under 300. It’s all about getting a feel of things at the end of the day. Test ride a full-sus and hardtail bike and decide which one you prefer. You can also go for 26ers or 29ers by first riding these budget bikes.

You’ll surely be hooked deeper into the sport when you get a good feel of them with these budget bikes.