Top 20 Mountain Bikes

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Mountain bikes are needed for cross-country riding. They are distinguished by their particular strength, reliability and unpretentious maintenance. Choosing such a vehicle is always a daunting task, especially for beginners. It is worth approaching the purchase of a bike with great seriousness, because, having acquired anything, you will waste a lot of money irrationally.

Our experts have compiled a rating that includes 21 models of the best mountain bikes, among which there is sure to be one that suits you.

What to look for when choosing a mountain bike

1. Budget. You should not save on buying a mountain bike, as the price often corresponds to the quality. Models from the middle and premium price segment will serve the owner for many years, and cheap models may become unusable after two weeks.
2. A type. There are two main groups: hartdale (front suspension fork) and double suspension (front and rear suspension). Heartdales are lighter in weight and cost less, but do not offer the same ride comfort as double suspensions, which are heavier but do better on forest belts, hills and any other bumps.
3. Shock absorbers. Check the bike in the store by applying the brake while applying pressure to the handlebars. Damping should work smoothly and smoothly. The rear, in the form of a spring, ideally compresses a sixth when the cyclist lands. Remember that there should be no depreciation on budget models. If it is, then it will fail very quickly, requiring replacement, and therefore financial investments.
4. Speed ​​and brakes. A large number of speeds (over 27) will not be needed by amateurs, from 21 to 24 will be enough for them. There are two types of brakes: disc and pads. The latter are more reliable and cheaper to maintain, although lately manufacturers prefer to install more expensive disk drives.
5. Wheels and frame. The large diameter of the wheels will make it possible to ride faster, but the cyclist must have good physical fitness. With a smaller diameter, the speed will be lower, but you can pedal without straining. When choosing, rely on height: if it is more than 1.80 m, then 28-inch are suitable, if less, then 26 is enough, and for people of short stature – 24. When determining the height of the frame, you should also look at the height: up to 1.60 m 15 inches will suffice, from 1.60 to 1.80 m – 19, from 1.90 – 23.
6. Optional equipment. The fenders allow you to ride in rainy weather without fear of muddy splashes. Lights and reflectors ensure safety on the road, and a repair kit will allow you to fix any simple breakdown anywhere if necessary. Better if a certain amount of equipment is included in the factory package.

Best Mountain Bikes Ranking

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best inexpensive mountain bikes	1	Stels Navigator 650 MD 27.5 V030	RUB 19,050
	2	Forward Apache 2.0 Disc (2017)	RUB 13,712
	3	Stels Pilot 950 MD 26 V010 (2018)	RUB 10,900
	4	Giant Rincon LTD 26 (2016)	–
Best mountain bikes in terms of price-performance ratio	1	Merida Big.Nine 15-MD (2018)	RUB 27,140
	2	Cube AIM SL 29 (2018)	RUB 50 800
	3	Trek Marlin 7 29 (2018)	RUB 51,700
	4	Format 1413 29 (2018)	RUB 29,000
	5	Eltreco XT-700 (2018)	RUB 43 800
Best compact mountain bikes	1	Cronus Soldier 2.5 (2016)	RUB 25,880
The best women's mountain bikes	1	Corto glori	RUB 27,500
	2	Author Spirit ASL 27.5 (2018)	RUB 43,560
	3	Giant Tempt 27.5 2 (2014)	RUB 42,090
	4	Merida Juliet 6.20-MD (2018)	RUB 29,205
The best mountain hybrids	1	Cube Nature Pro (2018)	RUB 51 800
	2	Author Classic (2018)	RUB 29,820
	3	Merida Crossway 20-D (2018)	31 270
	4	Giant Sedona DX (2018)	RUB 29,565
Best Speed ​​Mountain Bike	1	Merida Big.Nine 100 (2018)	RUB 36,580
Best fat bike	1	Author Su-Mo	56 307
Best mountain bike for downhill and freeride	1	Stark beat pro	RUB 75 650 rub.

Best inexpensive mountain bikes

Stels Navigator 650 MD 27.5 V030

Rating: 4.8

First place is the harddale with amateur equipment, twenty-one gears, perfect for cross-country driving. The frame is made of durable aluminum, so it can withstand active travel on rough, unprepared roads. The model is equipped with mechanical disc brakes and double aluminum rims.

Advantages

• wheels – 27.5 inches;

• damping fork – 100 mm.

• weight – 15 kg;

disadvantages

• no wings included.

Forward Apache 2.0 Disc (2017)

Rating: 4.7

Second place is the SR Suntour XCT suspension fork mountain bike, which has 80mm of travel so that bumps are smoothly overcome. The frame is made of high-tech aluminum alloy, which ensures reliability and maintains low weight. The model is equipped with mechanical disc brakes. Suitable for people with a height of 1.56-1.70 m.

Advantages

• number of gears – 21;

• wings included;

• double rims;

• weight – 15 kg;

• Kenda Kadre tires for quality grip;

• wheels – 29 inches;

disadvantages

• hard seat;

• weak wings.

Stels Pilot 950 MD 26 V010 (2018)

Rating: 4.7

The third position goes to a folding walking bike with attachments (primary class). The model is equipped with a large number of speed modes. The frame is made of tough, corrosion resistant aluminum alloy and mechanical disc brakes. The velobike copes well with off-road and asphalt driving.

Advantages

• number of gears – 21;

• double aluminum rims;

• shock absorption fork – 60 mm;

• weight – 16 kg;

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• harsh amortization.

Giant Rincon LTD 26 (2016)

Rating: 4.6

On the fourth line is the walking level model. Ideal for sport riding (cross country style). Designed for men from 1.75 to 1.80 m tall. The frame is made of aluminum, covered with durable paint, for which the manufacturer gives a three-year warranty.

Advantages

• wheels – 26 inches;

• high-quality assembly;

• step;

• shock absorption fork – 60 mm;

• rim brakes V-brake;

• weight – 14 kg;

disadvantages

• not found.

Best mountain bikes in terms of price-performance ratio

Merida Big.Nine 15-MD (2018)

Rating: 4.9

The first in the category is a bike with Shimano equipment (amateur class). The model has twenty four gears. The frame is made of durable and lightweight aluminum. Double rims are also made of aluminum. The model is equipped with mechanical disc brakes. The mountain bike is designed for active rides on a variety of roads.

Advantages

• wheels – 29 inches;

• acceptable cost – 27 thousand rubles.

• damping fork – 100 mm;

• weight – 15 kg;

disadvantages

• not found.

Cube AIM SL 29 (2018)

Rating: 4.8

The second position of the rating goes to the lightweight heartdale for cross-country. The model has Shimano equipment (amateur class). Equipped with twenty-seven gears, double aluminum rims and hydraulic disc brakes. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, which provides strength to the structure, but does not add weight to the mountain bike.

Advantages

• wheels – 29 inches;

• the ability to mount a disc brake;

• damping fork – 100 mm;

• weight – 14.4 kg;

disadvantages

• relatively expensive – 50800 p.

Trek Marlin 7 29 (2018)

Rating: 4.8

The third place is occupied by a mountain bike with excellent characteristics, belonging to the middle price segment. The model can be purchased for approximately 52 thousand rubles. The frame here is made of aluminum alloy, it is durable and lightweight. The bike is equipped with a Shimano multi-speed transmission, disc brakes and a hydraulic drive.

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• good cross-country ability and roll-forward;

• damping fork – 100 mm;

• weight – 14 kg;

• wheels – 29 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

Format 1413 29 (2018)

Rating: 4.7

In fourth place is a mountain bike with preload adjustment. The structure has an aluminum frame, mechanical disc brakes and semi-professional equipment. The model is suitable for riding both on city roads and on rough terrain. Thanks to smooth cushioning, it will cope with any bumps and bumps without causing discomfort to the rider.

Advantages

• number of gears – 24;

• acceptable price – 21 thousand rubles.

• steel saddle frame;

• damping fork – 100 mm;

• weight – 15 kg;

• wheels – 29 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

Eltreco XT-700 (2018)

Rating: 4.6

The fifth is an electric sports bike equipped with Shimano attachments. The model has a 350 W electric motor. Aluminum frame construction, double aluminum rims and mechanical disc brakes. The factory has a Li-on battery, fenders, lighting system and a footrest. Accelerates to a top speed of 35 km / h. Travels up to 50 km on a single charge.

Advantages

• number of gears – 7;

• carrying capacity – up to 110 kg;

• wheels – 27.5 inches;

disadvantages

• heavyweight – 22 kg;

• relatively expensive – 44 thousand rubles.

Best compact mountain bikes

Cronus Soldier 2.5 (2016)

Rating: 4.9

In the first position is a full-fledged bike with a folding structure. This simplifies transportation and storage. Features include a frame with a new type of lock, hydraulic disc brakes, folding pedals and a fork with a lock. The model is equipped with Shimano equipment (semi-professional grade).

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• double aluminum rims;

• weight – 15 kg;

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

The best women's mountain bikes

Corto glori

Rating: 4.9

The first in the rating category is a mountain bike with a lowered top tube for a more comfortable fit. The model is specially designed for women, taking into account all the features of the body structure. Installed Shimano equipment, helping to find the right speed and load on any road. Hydraulic disc brakes.

Advantages

• number of gears – 24;
• damping fork – 100 mm.
• comfortable saddle;
• light weight;
• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• smooth steering wheel covers.

Author Spirit ASL 27.5 (2018)

Rating: 4.8

The second position goes to the universal mountain bike in the modification for women. Unlike the male models, it has a shortened base and lever, a narrow handlebar, a female saddle with connecting rods, and lightweight shock absorption. The model is equipped with Shimano Alivio equipment, which is the gold standard for touring and trekking bikes.

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• damping fork – 100 mm.

• weight – 14.8 kg;

• wheels – 27.5 inches;

disadvantages

• relatively expensive 43500 p.

Giant Tempt 27.5 2 (2014)

Rating: 4.8

On the third line is a mountain bike, the geometry and attachments of which are carefully selected taking into account the female characteristics. The frame of the structure is made of lightweight and durable aluminum alloy. Schwalbe Rapid Rob rubber allows you to overcome both rough terrain and asphalt roads.

Advantages

• number of gears – 30;

• damping fork – 100 mm.

• wheels – 27.5 inches;

• light weight;

disadvantages

• relatively expensive – 43 thousand rubles.

Merida Juliet 6.20-MD (2018)

Rating: 4.7

The fourth position in the rating goes to a mountain bike with Shimano equipment installed (amateur class). The double rims and frame are made of durable and lightweight aluminum. The model is equipped with a mechanical disc system. The bike is ideal for active rides on rough terrain and city roads.

Advantages

• number of gears – 24;

• acceptable cost – 29 thousand rubles.

• damping fork – 100 mm;

• weight – 14 kg;

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

The best mountain hybrids

Cube Nature Pro (2018)

Rating: 4.9

The first is a reliable bike with a solid construction. The suspension fork, coupled with the lightweight aluminum frame, makes it easy to ride even on the most uneven and bumpy roads. The model is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which ensure a smooth and timely stopping in any weather.

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• double aluminum rims;

• shock absorption fork – 63 mm;

• weight – 13.8 kg;

• wheels – 28 inches;

disadvantages

• relatively expensive – 52 thousand rubles.

Author Classic (2018)

Rating: 4.8

The second position in the ranking goes to a stylish hybrid bike. The construction has a lightweight aluminum alloy frame. The wheels are equipped with pistonized double rims with 32 spokes with branded tires that will last several seasons. Tektro V-brakes are simple and reliable.

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• acceptable cost – 30 thousand rubles.

• stem adjustment;

• adjustable steering rack;

• shock absorption fork – 60 mm;

• wheels – 28 inches;

• weight – 13.8 kg;

disadvantages

• not found.

Merida Crossway 20-D (2018)

Rating: 4.8

On the third line is a mountain bike, which is notable for its comfort. It is equipped with Shimano equipment (amateur class). The construction has an aluminum frame for strength. Equipped with dual aluminum rims and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

Advantages

• number of gears – 24;

• cushioned seatpost;

• adjustable takeaway;

• shock absorption fork – 63 mm;

• weight – 15 kg;

• wheels – 28 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

Giant Sedona DX (2018)

Rating: 4.7

The fourth in the category is a bike equipped with a comfortable saddle. The product is equipped with high quality Japanese Shimano equipment. The model is designed for men for travel on rough terrain and city roads. The frame is especially robust and with verified geometry made of lightweight aluminum alloy, like the double rims. Mechanical disc brakes are responsible for a timely and smooth stopping.

Advantages

• number of gears – 24;

• damping fork – 80 mm.

• cushioned seatpost;

• spring loaded seat;

• adjustment of the extension and rise;

• adjustable steering rack;

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

Best Speed ​​Mountain Bike

Merida Big.Nine 100 (2018)

Rating: 4.9

First place is the harddale for cross-country driving. Equipped with Shimano equipment. The frame is made of aluminum, as are the double rims. The model has hydraulic disc brakes for safe and quick stopping.

Advantages

• number of gears – 27;

• damping fork – 100 mm.

• weight – 14 kg;

• wheels – 29 inches;

disadvantages

• not found.

Best fat bike

Author Su-Mo

Rating: 4.9

The first in the category is a bicycle with good off-road ability. The model features a heat-treated chrome steel frame, wide tires, disc brakes and double aluminum rims. Velobike allows you to ride in any weather and season.

Advantages

• number of gears – 20;

• weight – 16 kg.

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• high cost – 74 thousand rubles

Best mountain bike for downhill and freeride

Stark beat pro

Rating: 4.9

The category leader is the excellent full-suspension bike for sporty riding styles. As noted by users, the model is distinguished by high-quality components and assembly, as well as a large suspension travel. The construction has a robust aluminum frame for durability and no backlash.

Advantages

• number of gears – 9;

• shock absorption fork – 160 mm;

• frame height – 16.69 inches;

• wheels – 26 inches;

disadvantages

• high cost – 89 thousand rubles

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.