Finding the best mountain bike under 1000 can be tricky at times as it can sometimes feel like you need to spend loads to pick up a top bit of kit.
For instance, some of the best mountain bikes can cost tens of thousands of pounds at the top end of the scale; however, our list should hopefully show there are still some great relatively inexpensive options for you to consider.
That said, these bikes still come with all the necessary features for off-road rides, like large, wide, knobby tyres for stability and grip, plus absorbent suspension to iron out any obstacles for a smoother cycling experience.
Unlike some of the best BMXs, these bikes also feature bigger frames to give them a longer wheelbase. This is to ensure the bike glides over obstacles one wheel at a time rather than getting caught with two wheels off the ground.
So, with all this in mind, we've put together a list based on price, reviews, and whether or not these bikes come with the aforementioned features to help you pick out the right mountain bike without breaking the bank.
Whether you're after something designed for trails, like this Trek Marlin 5, or you're searching for something a little lighter, like this Mongoose Status 2.4, we've got you covered right here. Let's begin...
Best mountain bike under 1000
1. Schwinn Traxion
Best mountain bike under 1000
Gears: 24-speed
Wheel Size: 29" x 2.25"
This Schwinn Traxion is designed to zoom down hills and rip through gnarly trails with ease, all whilst you remain in control with a set of 24 gears and both front and rear mechanical disc brakes for when you're ready to stop.
To improve your control even further, Schwinn has also included double-wall aluminium wheels equipped with a set of 29" and 2.25" wide knobby mountain tyres to help you maintain grip off-road.
The bike also features an 18", rigid aluminium frame which may not be the lightest, but should definitely be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of trials to help the bike withstand the test of time.
So, if you're looking to adventure beyond riding a stationary exercise bike indoors, then this bit of kit from Schwinn could be your answer.
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2. Mongoose Status 2.4
Best lightweight mountain bike under 1000
Gears: 21-speed
Wheel Size: 27.5" x 2.125"
If you're used to slightly lighter mountain bikes, then we'd argue this Mongoose Status 2.4 is definitely worth checking out.
It weighs just 34.2 lbs thanks to its relatively compact size as far as mountain bikes go, and is complete with a set of slightly smaller tyres which measure just 27.5" by 2.125".
Smaller tyres may not be quite as stable; however, you should find they're quicker across off-road tracks which, when teamed with the light frame, make this particular mountain bike worth considering to race with.
Other notable features include its 21-speed twist shifter to help you tackle both up and downhill rides, fork suspension to absorb shock, plus front and rear linear-pull brakes for when you've reached the end of your ride.
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3. GT Aggressor Expert
Best mountain bike under 1000 for beginners
Gears: 24-speed
Wheel Size: 29" x 2.25"
Contrary to its name, we feel this GT Aggressor Expert could make for a great mountain bike for beginners thanks to the engineering expertise of this legendary MTB and BMX brand.
GT boasts its bike features off-road friendly geometry and a lightweight alloy frame that's ideal for recreational use as well as for those looking to get to grips with controlling a mountain bike off-road.
It also comes with an impressive selection of gears due to its 3x8 Shimano Acera drivetrain for more control over your speed, plus SR Suntour's 80mm XCM Fork suspension should keep you comfortable whilst you cycle.
In terms of wheels, this particular version is kitted out with 29" x 2.25" tyres to help you tackle larger obstacles; however, a 27.5" version is also available if you're after something slightly smaller for a more comfortable fit.
4. Trek Marlin 5
Best trail mountain bike under 1000
Gears: 8-speed
Wheel Size: 29" x 2.20"
Similar to GT, Trek holds a prominent position in the MTB scene, particularly in the high-end price range. However, the Trek Marlin 5 and its inexpensive price tag catches our attention as a worthy option if you're on a limited budget.
When it comes to trial rides, this bike has you covered with its locked suspension system. The fork remains inactive most of the time, maximising pedalling efficiency and conserving your energy.
Trek has taken measures to protect crucial components from potential damage caused by loose debris. They've smartly routed the shifter and brake cables through the frame, resulting in a more streamlined design.
While we're presenting the 29" version here, it's worth noting that the Trek Marlin 5 is also available with 27.5" and 26" tyres, catering to different rider sizes. These tyres, the Bontrager XR2 Comp, also boast aggressive lugs, providing exceptional traction for off-road adventures
5. VooDoo Braag
Best hardtail mountain bike under 1000
Gears: 9-speed
Wheel Size: 29" x 2.25"
Finally, we come to the VooDoo Braag, an excellent hardtail mountain bike that fits well within a budget. To begin with, hardtail MTBs lack rear shock absorbers and typically come with rigid forks or front suspension, making them versatile for various types of riding.
The VooDoo Braag follows this pattern, equipped with 120mm Suntour XCM32-NLO forks, ensuring a smoother trail experience. The Maxxis Ardent 29" x 2.25" tyres also play a significant role in maintaining traction during your rides.
Moreover, the bike is equipped with microSHIFT Advent gears, providing an ample range to conquer any hill or mountain. These gears also aid in maintaining control while descending, and the Clarks brakes ensure a safe stop when the time comes.
Overall then, the VooDoo Braag is undoubtedly worth considering if you're in the market for a hardtail MTB.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
With so many options available, you probably have a few questions surrounding mountain bikes and what makes each of them stand out. Don't worry because we've answered some of the most common queries right here.
How much should you spend on a mountain bike?
The cost of a mountain bike can vary drastically and, with technology developing, finding a good mountain bike for a relatively inexpensive price is becoming increasingly difficult.
$2000 or more is roughly what you could end up spending to pick up a top bit of kit; however, we feel our list shows you don't necessarily have to break the bank to purchase a good mountain bike, especially if you're a beginner.
Of course, spending a little extra will likely mean you're getting something made from the lightest, most durable materials and packed full of the latest technology to make off-road cycling a little easier.
In our opinion though, budget mountain bikes aren't to be overlooked and can certainly do the job if you're desperate to hit the trails and downhill courses.
Can you ride a mountain bike on the road?
In short, yes you can ride a mountain bike on the road as they're both legal and effective at riding over pretty much all surfaces, including pavement and concrete.
However, mountain bikes are pretty heavy compared to some of the best road bikes, meaning they'll likely be slower and more difficult to manoeuvre around tight city streets.
Therefore, if you find yourself cycling on the road regularly, then we'd recommend opting for something designed specifically for the job.
How do you clean a mountain bike?
Cleaning a mountain bike is essential as it's primarily used off-road, so will no doubt accumulate dirt and debris pretty quickly.
This dirt can be detrimental to your bike's performance, especially if it gets caught in between some of the moving parts and dries, thus causing the mechanisms to cease up.
To begin cleaning, rinse down the frame to remove some of the loose dirt and wipe away anything left over from the frame. We'd recommend using an old toothbrush to tackle some of the harder-to-reach spots.
For the drive train, you may need to rinse off, then use a brush and degreaser to ensure the mechanism continues to run smoothly.
In terms of brakes, we'd recommend wiping them clean before applying a small amount of degreaser using a paper towel around the rotors.
What are 29er mountain bikes?
29er mountain bikes are a type of mountain bike with larger wheels that measure approximately 29 inches in diameter. They are larger than traditional mountain bike wheels, which typically measure around 26 inches or less.
The larger wheel size offers several advantages, including improved rolling efficiency, greater stability, and better traction over rough terrain. The larger wheels also help the bike maintain its momentum over obstacles and provide a smoother ride on rocky or uneven terrain.
It's worth noting, however, that 29er mountain bikes may not be the best choice for all riders, particularly those who are shorter in stature or who prefer a more nimble ride. As with any bike, it's important to choose a model that suits your riding style and needs, as well as one that fits properly and feels comfortable to ride.