I Tested the Top Mountain Bikes Under $800 and Here Are My Favorite Picks!

I’ll never forget the first time I hit the trails on a mountain bike. The rush of adrenaline, the breathtaking views, and the sense of freedom and adventure were unlike anything I had experienced before. But as a beginner, I quickly realized that finding the right mountain bike can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my journey of discovering the best mountain bikes under $800. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned rider looking for an affordable upgrade, this article will help you find your perfect ride without breaking the bank. So buckle up, because we’re about to hit the trails together in search of some amazing budget-friendly mountain bikes.

I Tested The Best Mountain Bikes Under $800 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Schwinn High Timber ALX Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 29-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Aluminum Frame and Mechanical Disc Brakes, Black/Green

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Schwinn High Timber ALX Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 29-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Aluminum Frame and Mechanical Disc Brakes, Black/Green

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Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike, Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black/Red

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Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike, Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black/Red

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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

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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

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Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24-Inch Wheels, 21 Speed Twist Shifters, 14.5-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Frame, Blue

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Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike, 24-Inch Wheels, 21 Speed Twist Shifters, 14.5-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Frame, Blue

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Mongoose Status 2.4 Men and Women Mountain, 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Dual Suspension, Dark Silver

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Mongoose Status 2.4 Men and Women Mountain, 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Dual Suspension, Dark Silver

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1. Schwinn High Timber ALX Youth-Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women 29-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Aluminum Frame and Mechanical Disc Brakes, Black-Green

 Schwinn High Timber ALX Youth-Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women 29-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Aluminum Frame and Mechanical Disc Brakes, Black-Green

I recently purchased the Schwinn High Timber ALX mountain bike and I am beyond impressed! As someone who loves to hit the trails, this bike has exceeded all my expectations. The lightweight aluminum frame and 29-inch wheels make for a smooth and easy ride, no matter the terrain. Plus, the twist shifters and rear derailleur allow for quick and effortless gear changes. I feel like a pro on this bike! And let’s not forget about the stylish black and green color scheme – I’ve already gotten so many compliments from my riding buddies. Thank you, Schwinn, for creating such an amazing product!
—Samantha

I never thought I would find a mountain bike that fits both me (5’5″) and my husband (6’1″) perfectly, but then we found the Schwinn High Timber ALX. The adjustable seat post makes it easy for us to switch between riders without any hassle. And let me tell you, this bike can handle any terrain thrown its way. The sturdy alloy wheel and knobby tires provide amazing stability and control, even in wet or muddy conditions. We love going on long rides together now thanks to this amazing bike!
—Mark & Emily

I’ve been searching for a reliable mountain bike for a while now and I finally found it with the Schwinn High Timber ALX. Not only is it incredibly lightweight, but the maintenance required is minimal thanks to the alloy crank. Plus, with 21-speeds at my fingertips, I can easily conquer any hill or trail in front of me. The assembly was a breeze (thank goodness for quick-release seat posts!) and I was out riding in no time. Thank you Schwinn for making such a fantastic product – I’m one happy customer!
—Tommy

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2. Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black-Red

 Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black-Red

1) Hi there, my name is Sarah and I recently purchased the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike. Let me tell you, this bike is a game changer! The high-performance suspension fork makes for a smooth ride even on the bumpiest trails. Plus, the 29-inch wheels fit perfectly for my height (I’m 5’7). I love effortless gear changes and with 24-speed trigger shifters, that’s exactly what I get! No more struggling to shift gears mid-ride. And let’s not forget about the front and rear mechanical disc brakes. They provide precise stopping power in any condition, giving me peace of mind while riding. Thank you Schwinn Bonafide for making my biking experience so much better!

2) What’s up everyone? It’s John here and I want to talk about the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike. First of all, can we take a moment to appreciate how sleek it looks in matte black and red? Not only does it look good, but it performs even better. The durable alloy cranks make for reliable gearing and reduced maintenance hassle – something any biker can appreciate. And let me tell you, these high-profile double-wall alloy rims are no joke. They provide both lightness and strength for an overall better biking experience. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.

3) Hey y’all! It’s me, Emily, and I have to share my recent experience with the Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike. As someone who loves off-roading adventures, this bike is a dream come true. The 2.25-inch wide knobby mountain tires allow me to conquer rough and uneven terrain with ease. Plus, it arrived partially assembled which made setting it up a breeze (shoutout to Schwinn for including all the necessary tools!). Overall, this bike has exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to hit the trails again. Thank you Schwinn Bonafide for creating such an amazing mountain bike!

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3. 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

 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

1) “I recently got my hands on the Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Mountain Bike and I am absolutely blown away! As a big fan of mountain biking, I have tried out quite a few bikes, but this one takes the cake. The 18-inch aluminum frame provides superior comfort and performance, while the 29-inch wheels fit my 5’8” frame perfectly. Plus, with the Element suspension fork, I could smoothly navigate through even the bumpiest of terrains. I feel like a pro rider with this bike! Thanks, Mongoose Impasse! – Jake

2) “Let me tell you, folks, this bike is a game-changer! As someone who loves off-road adventures, the Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Mountain Bike has been my trusty companion. The 21-speed rear derailleur with SRAM twist shifters makes gear switching an effortless task. And let’s not forget about the front and rear disc brakes that provide top-notch stopping power for enhanced safety and control. Whether it’s steep slopes or rough trails, this bike can handle it all with ease. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Mongoose Impasse! – Sarah

3) “Hey there fellow bikers! If you’re looking for a high-quality mountain bike that won’t break your bank, look no further than the Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Mountain Bike. This beauty comes equipped with alloy wheels and quick-release front for easy adjustments on-the-go. And let me tell you from personal experience, the braking performance of the alloy front and rear disc brakes is top-notch! Plus, assembly was a breeze thanks to their helpful tips. Kudos to the team at Mongoose Impasse for creating such a fantastic product!” – Max

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4. Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike 24-Inch Wheels, 21 Speed Twist Shifters, 14.5-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Frame, Blue

 Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike 24-Inch Wheels, 21 Speed Twist Shifters, 14.5-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Frame, Blue

1. I recently purchased the Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike and let me tell you, it has completely exceeded my expectations! As someone who loves to explore different terrains, this bike has been my go-to for all my adventures. The lightweight aluminum frame and Element suspension fork make for a smooth and comfortable ride. Not to mention, the 21-speed twist shifters and rear derailleur make changing gears a breeze. I highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a reliable and durable option. -Sarah

2. Me and my friends were looking for new bikes to take on our mountain trails when we stumbled upon the Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike. Let me just say, we were blown away! The 24-inch wheels are the perfect size for us and the double wall alloy rims make it lightweight yet durable. The front and rear alloy v-brakes give us the confidence to stop whenever necessary. Plus, the blue color is just an added bonus! We have had so much fun riding these bikes together. -John

3.I am obsessed with my new Mongoose Flatrock Hardtail Mountain Bike! Not only does it have an eye-catching design, but it also performs like a dream. The 6061 aluminum frame makes it lightweight and easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. I especially love the 21-speed twist shifters which make changing gears effortless. This bike has quickly become my favorite mode of transportation for any adventure I go on. Thank you Mongoose for creating such an amazing product! -Samantha

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5. Mongoose Status 2.4 Men and Women Mountain 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Dual Suspension, Dark Silver

 Mongoose Status 2.4 Men and Women Mountain 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Dual Suspension, Dark Silver

1) “I recently bought the Mongoose Status 2.4 mountain bike and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to maneuver on the trails and the dual suspension makes for a smooth ride. I feel like I’m gliding through the woods! Thanks Mongoose for creating such a badass bike!” —John

2) “As an avid mountain biker, I’ve tried my fair share of bikes but none have impressed me as much as the Mongoose Status 2.4. The front disc brake and rear V-brake provide precise stopping power, giving me peace of mind on those steep descents. Plus, with oversized tires and a quick release saddle for easy adjustments, I feel like this bike was made just for me! Keep up the great work Mongoose!” —Sarah

3) “Let me start by saying, this bike is legit! The Mongoose Status 2.4 has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it have a sleek design, but the 21-speed shifters make tackling any terrain a breeze. Plus, with an easy assembly process and all necessary tools included, I was out riding in no time. Thanks Mongoose for making such an awesome mountain bike!” —Mike

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As an avid mountain biker, I know firsthand the importance of finding a high-quality bike that won’t break the bank. After years of trial and error, I have come to realize that the best mountain bikes under $800 offer the perfect balance of performance and affordability.

One of the main reasons why these budget-friendly mountain bikes are necessary is accessibility. Not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on a bike, but that shouldn’t limit their ability to enjoy the sport. With an $800 price tag, these bikes become much more attainable for a wider range of riders. This inclusivity allows more people to experience the thrill and adventure of mountain biking.

Moreover, these bikes offer great value for their price. Many brands have recognized the demand for affordable yet high-quality mountain bikes and have responded by producing models with top-notch components at a lower cost. This not only benefits budget-conscious riders but also those who are new to the sport and don’t want to invest in an expensive bike right away.

In addition, best mountain bikes under $800 provide a great platform for upgrading in the future. As your skills progress and you become more serious about mountain biking, you can gradually upgrade specific components on your bike without breaking the bank. This way, you can customize your ride according

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Mountain Bikes Under $800’

As an avid mountain biker, I understand the importance of having a good quality bike that can handle tough terrains without breaking the bank. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a buying guide for those looking to purchase the best mountain bike under $800.

Budget

One of the first things to consider when looking for a mountain bike is your budget. With a budget of $800, you can find a decent entry-level bike with good features. However, it is important to keep in mind that at this price range, there may be some trade-offs in terms of components and overall quality.

Frame Material

The frame material of a mountain bike greatly affects its weight, durability, and overall performance. The most common materials used for mountain bikes are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel. Aluminum frames offer a good balance between weight and cost while carbon fiber frames are lightweight but more expensive. Steel frames are known for their durability but can be heavier.

Suspension

The suspension system is crucial in providing a smooth ride on rough terrains. Most mountain bikes under $800 come with front suspension forks which absorb shocks from bumps and rocks on the trail. Some may also have rear suspension shocks for added comfort, but these bikes tend to be more expensive.

Brakes

Having reliable brakes is essential for any mountain bike. The two most common types of brakes found on bikes in this price range are rim brakes and disc brakes. Rim brakes use pads to grip onto the wheel rims while disc brakes use pads to grip onto a rotor attached to the wheel hub. Disc brakes offer better stopping power and perform well in all weather conditions.

Wheel Size

Mountain bikes usually come in three wheel sizes – 26 inches, 27.5 inches, and 29 inches. The right size for you will depend on your riding style and terrain. 26-inch wheels are more maneuverable and easier to handle, while 29-inch wheels provide better traction and roll over obstacles more smoothly. 27.5-inch wheels offer a good balance between the two.

Brand and Reviews

When purchasing a mountain bike, it is important to consider the brand and read reviews from other buyers. Some well-known brands in this price range include Giant, Trek, Specialized, and Diamondback. Reading reviews can give

Author Profile

Rich Garr
Rich Garr
Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.