Last Updated on August 1, 2023
Mountain biking is one of the best sports out there. Riding your bike across the mountains relaxes your senses while ensuring you stay fit and active. It isn’t as demanding as basketball, boxing, football, or sports that highly depend on athleticism.
So, if you’re compelled to dive into this beautiful sport, you need a bike. And while you don’t need a professional bike, you’d want an affordable bike to get you started. In this case, a mountain bike under 600 dollars should be good enough.
If you have the cash to spend on a good beginner’s mountain bike, we’ll show you the best ones to buy below $600. We’ll also discuss things to consider when buying one. Let’s go!
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Schwinn High Timber AL Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Aluminum Frame, Grey | Prime | More Info | |
 | Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch, 21-Speed, Lightweight, Dark Blue | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Schwinn S29 Mens and Womens Mountain Bike, 29-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, 20-Inch Aluminum Frame, Dual-Suspension, Mechanical Disc Brakes, Matte Black | Prime | More Info | |
 | Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike, Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black/Red | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Mongoose Flatrock Men and Women Hardtail Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Wheels, 21 Speed Twist Shifters, 17-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Frame, Silver | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Mongoose Malus Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-Inch Bicycle Wheels, 4-Inch Wide Knobby Tires, Steel Frame, 7-Speed Drivetrain Bicycle, Shimano Rear Derailleur, Disc Brakes, Matte Black | Prime | More Info | |
 | Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Mountain Bike, Men and Women, 18-Inch Aluminum Frame, 29-Inch Wheels, Front and Rear Disc Brakes, Twist Shifters, 21-Speed Rear Deraileur, Silver | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Schwinn GTX 2.0 Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike for Men and Women, Dual Sport Bicycle, 700c Wheels, 17-Inch Step-Through Aluminum Frame, 21-Speed Twist Shifters, Mechanical Disc Brake, Light Blue | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Mongoose Dolomite Mens and Womens Fat Tire Mountain Bike, 26-inch Wheels, 4-Inch Wide Knobby Tires, 7-Speed, Adult Steel Frame, Front and Rear Brakes, Red | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | Hiland Mountain Bike, 3/6/Multi-Spokes,Shimano 21 Speeds Drivetrain,Aluminum Frame 26 Inch Wheels, Disc-Brake Bike for Men Women Men's MTB Bicycle | PrimeEligible | More Info | |
 | EUROBIKE G4 Folding Mountain Bike, Adult Folding Bike, Full Suspension Mountain Bike 26 Inch,21 Speed Mens/Women Foldable Mountain Bicycle (G4 Mag Green) | Prime | More Info | |
 | Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike, 24-Inch Wheels, Aluminum Frame, 21-Speed Drivetrain, Lavender | PrimeEligible | More Info |
Schwinn High Timber
- Lightweight 17 inch aluminum mountain frame is the perfect bike for rides around your neighborhood or trails with 27.5-inch wheels fit riders 5’4” to 6’2” inches tall
- Bicycle is equipped with an alloy crank that delivers smooth gear changes, requiring minimal maintenance
- Mountain bike has twist shifters with a rear derailleur to make gear changes quick and easy
- Lightweight and sturdy alloy wheel and wide knobby mountain tires offer stability and balance to riders on all terrains and in all weather conditions
- Quick-release seat posts for easy adjustments, arrives 80% assembled, will need the following tool: Phillips head screwdriver, 2.5-8mm Allen wrenches, adjustable wrench, pliers with cable cutt
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Schwinn High Timber is an excellent mountain bike for beginners and intermediates. Its all-terrain tires provide good traction, while the front suspension helps to absorb shocks and bumps on rough terrain. The 21-speed options allow riders to quickly adjust to different slopes and inclines, making it easier to tackle steep hills.
Other notable features include front suspension, all-terrain tires, a lightweight steel frame, and various sizes for kids, women, and men.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Variety of sizes
Cons
- Durability
- Reported issues with the brakes and gears
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
- Assembly tutorial video located beside the images; with a Denim Blue hardtail frame and 21 speeds to conquer the trails, the Huffy Stone Mountain is ready for outdoor adventures; just follow the steps in our product manual
- An exclusive: Ideal for ages 13 and up and a minimum rider height of 5 feet; durable steel frame backed by our limited lifetime warranty (see owners manual); suspension fork handles bumps and dips for a smoother-feeling ride
- The indexed Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur combines with the micro-shift twist shifter to deliver 21 speeds on-demand for uphill climbing, downhill riding, or pure acceleration; removable rear derailleur guard ensures consistent gear operation
- 26 X 1.95 knobby tires tear into dirt bike paths with ease; linear pull hand brakes deliver consistent stopping action; premium padded ATB saddle has stitched sides for lasting quality; alloy quick release provides easy seat height adjustment
- Slight-rise handlebar enables upright riding to minimize back and shoulder strain; ATB-type resin pedals on the 3-piece crank have responsive feel; Kraton grips remain comfortable to the touch; alloy wheels in matte black; kickstand included
- Head outdoors on your Huffy mountain bike - youll have fun wherever you choose to ride!
- Includes all tools needed for easy assembly. Simply install the front wheel, handlebar, seat and pedals, and then adjust the brak
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Huffy Stone Mountain Bike is a great lightweight bike with hand brakes and multiple speeds for riding on dirt tracks. It may not be as light as other hardtail mountain bikes, but it shouldn’t be a problem.
The bike comes 90% assembled, which makes it very easy to put together. However, you may experience some issues with the pre-assembly. For instance, its bike gears are shifted by rotating a knob next to the hand grips, allowing you to keep your hands in contact with the handlebars at all times. The bike also has a narrow, racing-type seat, but you may want to replace it with a more comfortable one for a better riding experience.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Heavy
- Uncomfortable seat
- Requires tweaking to get it to work right
Schwinn S29
- 20-inch frame with 29-inch wheels is suitable for riders with heights ranging from 57 to 62
- Aluminum dual-suspension frame, front suspension fork, and rear shocks combine to provide a trail riding experience that is both durable and provides ultimate bump absorption
- 21-speed shifters with derailleurs are perfect for a wide gear range and smooth shifts
- Combination of alloy triple cranks and a 7-speed freewheel ensures that you always have the appropriate gearing for any situation
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes deliver precise stopping power and steady speed control on descents, paired with extra wide double-wall alloy rims embracing 2.1-inch wide knobby mountain ti
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Schwinn S29 is a good value for the money. It looks good and handles trails well, with big 29-inch wheels that roll easily over rocks and roots. The brakes, Shimano sets, and front and rear shocks work great.
However, you may need to adjust the handlebars, brakes, seat, and derailleurs to get the most out of the bike. Also, it may need a few necessary upgrades to improve its performance. Consider replacing the seat, crankset, and bottom bracket to significantly improve the smoothness of pedaling and gear shifts.
Pros
- Trails well
- Comfortable to ride
Cons
- Upgrades may be necessary to improve the bike’s performance
Schwinn Bonafide
- 17-inch aluminum mountain frame with high-performance suspension fork effectively absorb bumps and thumps, while the 29-inch wheels fit to riders 54 to 62 inches tall
- Effortless gear change with 24-speed trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes deliver precise stopping power in any condition, while the durable alloy cranks ensure reliable gearing and reduced maintenance hassle
- For enhanced durability, the high-profile double-wall alloy rims offer a combination of lightness and strength, while the 2.25-inch wide knobby mountain tires are prepared to tackle rough and uneven biking
- Arrives partially assembled, will require tools, Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench 2.5mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, & 8mm, an adjustable wrench, and pair of pliers with cable cutting abil
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Schwinn Bonafide comes assembled chiefly out of the box, and the brakes are pretty good. The bike is also comfortable to ride. It looks good and, once adjusted, shifts and downshifts well.
However, the packaging isn’t the best, and the brake rotors could easily be bent if the box is mishandled during shipping. Other parts, like the front and rear derailleurs, brake pads, and tire pressure, also had issues.
Pros
- Good brakes
- Comfortable ride
Cons
- Poor packaging
- Uncomfortable seat
- Requires professional adjustments to get it working right
Mongoose Flatrock
- Hardtail MTB with a lightweight 6061 aluminum frame and 26-inch wheels is perfect for all terrain adventures, best fit to riders 54 to 62 tall
- Element suspension fork improves performance and control while providing a smoother ride
- 21-speed twist shifters and rear derailleur provide effortless gear changes when riding up an incline or speeding down a decline
- Reliably stop with confidence using the front and rear alloy v-brakes, delivering dependable stopping power
- Experience lightweight durability with the double wall alloy r
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Mongoose Flatrock is sturdy and comfortably fits riders of different sizes. The front derailleur may need to be adjusted to shift to the biggest gear, but this task is not difficult. The back gears came adjusted correctly, which is a plus.
The front tire may not be the steadiest when spinning, but this is a minor issue and doesn’t affect the bike’s overall performance. The bike arrived without any damage or missing parts, which is a relief.
One thing to note is that the stem may need to be adjusted by turning the bike over and resting it on the handlebars to get it to sit correctly when lining up the front wheel. The disc brakes may also require some attention, but this is to be expected at this price point.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Handles steep inclines with ease
Cons
- Requires minor adjustments
Mongoose Malus
- Comfortable and stable ride with a steel mountain-style fat tire frame and 26-inch wheels, fit to riders 54 to 62 tall
- Seamless gear transitions with the 7-speed shifter, ensuring smooth and effortless changes for a more enjoyable riding experience
- Ensure crisp stopping and precise speed control with the front and rear disc brakes, adding an extra layer of safety to your rides
- Conquer any terrain effortlessly with the fat, knobby 4-inch wide mountain tires that effortlessly roll over obstacles, while the light and strong 4 alloy rims provide durability and agility
- Stay in full control out on the trail with the alloy A-head stem and mountain handle
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Schwinn S29‘s oversized tires and sturdy build are perfect for handling trails. Its brakes and gear shifts provide a smooth and quality ride for a fat bike. It’s also easy to assemble, with clear instructions and all the necessary tools.
However, there are reports of shipping issues that may damage the bike parts. While the mountain bike remains functional for the most part, some may experience difficulty shifting downward to any gear below the 4th. The problem was revealed to be improper handling during shipping. So, it depends on how fulfillment will deliver the bike to know whether it will have issues.
Pros
- Good choice for trail riding
- Sturdy build with smooth gear shifts
Cons
- Potential shipping and quality control issues
Mongoose Impasse
- Enhance comfort and performance with the 18-inch aluminum suspension frame, while the 29-inch wheels fit riders 54 to 62 tall
- Element suspension fork smooths the bumps and increases control
- Effortlessly switch gears with the 21-speed rear derailleur equipped with SRAM twist shifters
- Alloy wheels with quick-release front, Superior braking performance of the alloy front and rear disc brakes, reliable stopping power for enhanced safety and control
- Assembly Tip: Ensure wheel is as centered between the fork legs, if quick-release lever closes easily, open and tighten the adjustment nut further, if difficult to close, open the quick-release lever, loosen the adjustment nut a little, and try ag
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Mongoose Impasse can be a great choice for recreational riding with the understanding that some adjustments may be necessary (as with any bike).
First, the bike’s solid brakes compare well with the brand’s Trek bike. While the derailer felt cheaper, it still worked well. The front shocks out of the box were very nice and comparable to Rock Shox, while the tires were okay but had soft rubber that may wear out quickly. The rims felt good so far, but may eventually need to be changed.
However, consider swapping out the seat, seat post, and pedals to your preferences. Adding a bike rack to carry water and a small front fender for the 29″ bike is also recommended.
Pros
- Great choice for recreational biking
- Brakes and front shocks perform well for the bike’s price.
Cons
- Requires adjustment knowledge and experience
Schwinn GTX
- Hybrid bike with an aluminum dual-sport frame and suspension fork that offers limitless adaptability, 700c wheels that fit to riders 5’2” – 5’9” tall
- Adult mountain bike is equipped with 21-speed twist shifters, ensuring effortless and accurate gear adjustments
- Mechanical disc brakes offer enhanced stopping power, providing you with additional control and braking performance
- Enabling precise riding, the handlebar and stem combination strikes a balance between lightweight design and durability
- Triple-density ergonomic grips and sport saddle touch key comfort points to soften the r
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Schwinn GTX is a great choice to start your biking experience. The bike is very light, with an aluminum frame and solid components. It’s also effortless to assemble, with excellent tires for plenty of traction. The braking is smooth, and shifting from gear to gear up or down requires little effort. The seat is fully adjustable up or down as well.
However, like most MTBs in this price range, the stock bike seat is decent but may be too hard for some users. The user recommended a much softer seat for a more comfortable ride.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Nice tires for traction
Cons
- Stcok bike seat is hard
Mongoose Dolomite
- Ideal for riders between 54 to 6 tall, this mountain bike with a steel frame, supersized knobby tires, and 26-inch wheels allows for effortless conquering of any off-road trail
- Adjustable for riders of different heights, the threadless headset increase speed and performance, combined with strong and lightweight alloy rims keep the weight down
- Ride comfortably with beach cruiser pedals and ensure safety with front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- 1 x 7 drivetrain allowing for smooth gear transitions and optimal power transfer during your rides
- Arrives 80% assembled, tools needed to complete assembly are Phillips head screw driver, 2.5-8mm Allen wrench, adjustable wrench, pair of pliers with cable cutting abil
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Putting the Mongoose Dolomite fat tire bike together, including installing new handlebars and a seat, can take about 90 minutes. The user did have to adjust the angle of the handlebar and brake lever to accommodate the longer handlebar, but otherwise, the assembly went smoothly. The bike was heavy but still fun, with some great basic features.
On the downside, Dolomite may be challenging in sand or mud, despite the flotation provided by the fat tires. The stock seat was a bit narrow, but the user was able to easily replace it with a more comfortable one.
Pros
- Good features for its price
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Challenging on the mud and sand
- Narrow seat
Hiland H200
- 【Best for Beginner】Hiland H200 will be a good friend for new riders. Aluminum rims and magnesium wheels are light in weight. The special spoke design help you break the wind resistance and handle pavement, gravel and dirt with ease.
- 【High tech Frame】Hiland H200 mountain bike has Light Aluminum frame is packed with features that make your ride better. Good performance suspension fork is playful enough for new riders,withstand many tough terrain mountain trails or daily commutes.
- 【Professional drive train】Shimano 21 Speed drive train , a wide range of gears gives you more control for climbing,for room to get low on descents, corners and jumps.Dual disc brakes ensure enough stopping power even in wet environment.
- 【Assembly Guide】85% pre-assembled,easy to assemble,free pedals,required assembly tools included.If you have any questions about it.You can refer to the installation video or contact us. Please don’t assemble the fork BACKWARDS.
- 【Size Guide & Warranty】17 frame size is ideal for riders between 5 & 6. Like every Hiland, its backed by a limited lifetime warranty. So if you have any question about bike, Please do not hesitate to contact us,we will reply and solve within 24 hou
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The Hiland H200 is similar to the H300 version, but this one’s more geared toward smaller riders. It has a light aluminum frame packed with multiple features, making it an excellent choice for biking on paved roads and highways or going to light singletrack trails.
The main characteristics of this bike are its playfulness because of its lightweight structure. If you want to get a good feel for mountain biking, then it is best that you start with this one. It’s not hard to learn because it is easily controllable and maneuverable.
Pros
- Unique design
- Fast-rolling tires
Cons
- Awkward looks
- Unreliable drivetrain
Eurobike G4
- Eurobike G4 Folding mountain Bike is specially designed for outdoor sports and commuter riding, easy to carry, stable and comfortable to ride
- 【Easy to fold and unfold】This Folding bike can be folded or unfold, if you want to save storage space, choose a folding bicycle.
- 【Dual-disc brakes】26 inch adult mountain bike can save effort to step on the brakes during riding and can provide more safety protection for the rider.
- 【21-speed drivetrain】allows you to find the most efficient speed with wide variability.
- 【Full suspension】bike for adults riders between 54 to 58 with full suspension ,it can reduce the bumps caused by the uneven road surface during cycling
- 【26x1.95 Wide and multi-tooth tires】 mens/womens mountain bikes designed with mountain tires, it can provide good grip, and there are shock absorbers to absorb shocks.
- 【Assembly Guide】Eurobike mountain bike assembly video instructions on the back of the picture on the product detail page can help you easily assemble in 15-20 minutes.
- If you have any questions about your bike, please contact us for assistance as soon as possib
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Eurobike G4 is for beginners and budget-conscious riders who want an entry-level mountain bike. It is a full-fledged folding mountain bike capable of going to the trails. This is an excellent choice if you don’t have enough storage space for your bike. Just fold it, and it’s good to go on any small cabinet or corner.
This affordable mountain bike is awkward-looking due to its foldable mechanism. But if you’re not keen on aggressive trails, downhill descents, or aesthetics, then you won’t mind using this on the road or while commuting.
Pros
- Suspension system
- Folding feature
Cons
- Safety hazards on trails
- Short handlebars
Mongoose Maxim
- Aluminum full suspension mountain frame maximizes comfort and performance. 24-inch wheels fit riders ages 8 and up, or 4’8” to 5’6”
- Suspension fork smooths out bumps and increases control
- SRAM twisth shifters change gears easily. 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur is great for all types of riding
- Linear pull brakes deliver great braking power
- 3 piece crank provide sure shifts. Alloy rims offer lightweight durabil
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Mongoose Maxim is an affordable bike with suspension and other features for rougher trails.
Upon receiving your order, the bike’s box was beaten up and ripped. Nonetheless, all the parts were zip-tied together and included. Assembly took about 20 minutes, but you may have trouble getting the front wheel past the brakes. To solve this, release the brake cable after squeezing the brake arms together.
The pedal was forward, and the wheel turned, which means your shoe might touch the tire. However, the gear changing is smooth.
Pros
- Relatively easy assembly
Cons
- You may need to fix some of its parts
Buying Guide
There are factors to consider to ensure you get the most value for the mountain bike you’ll buy. Below are the most important ones:
Frame Material
Aluminum is a popular choice for mountain bike frames as it is lightweight, durable, and affordable. Steel frames are also durable but tend to be heavier. Finally, carbon fiber frames are the lightest but also the most expensive.
Wheel Size
Mountain bikes come in three wheel sizes: 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch. The larger its size, the easier it is to roll over obstacles and maintain momentum. However, larger wheels can also make the bike heavier and more challenging to maneuver.
Suspension
Front-suspension bikes have a suspension fork on the front wheel, while full-suspension bikes have both front and rear suspension. The latter offers better control and comfort on rough terrain but is also more expensive.
Brakes
Disc brakes offer better stopping power and perform better in wet conditions, making them more expensive. Rim brakes are more affordable but may not perform well in wet conditions.
Gears
The number of gears you need depends on the terrain you will be riding on. If you are riding on steep hills, you may need more gears (up to 30) to make climbing easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best budget mountain bikes available?
Some of the best options include the Diamondback Hook, the Schwinn High Timber, and the Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Bike.
What are some good full-suspension mountain bikes under $500?
You might want to check out the Schwinn Protocol 1.0, the Kent KZ2600, or the Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike.
What are the top-rated women’s mountain bikes under $600?
Consider the Diamondback Lux, the Raleigh Eva, or the Schwinn Siro.
What should I look for when choosing a starter mountain bike?
Look for a bike that is comfortable, durable, and easy to ride. Consider the riding you’ll be doing and choose a bike suitable for that terrain. Additionally, you should be mindful of the bike’s components, such as the brakes, suspension, and gears.
What are the main differences between expensive and cheap mountain bikes?
The best mountain bikes are expensive due to their high-end suspension systems, carbon fiber frames, and top-of-the-line gears. They are also often lighter and more durable than cheaper mountain bikes known for using lower-quality components. However, the latter remains a good option for beginners or casual riders who don’t need the highest-end features.
Verdict
A cheap mountain bike I’d highly recommend above is this:
- Comfortable and stable ride with a steel mountain-style fat tire frame and 26-inch wheels, fit to riders 54 to 62 tall
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Mountain biking is an expensive sport. But you don’t need to spend a truckload’s worth of cash to enjoy the sport. There are some budget models out there that can give you the same level of experience as the premium ones.
While you may have to compromise things, that shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, as the bikes we’ve mentioned are durable, safe, and downright cool!
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