Mountain biking first became popular in the 1970s, when cyclists began to experiment with riding on off-road terrain. Mountain bikes were originally designed for racing, and they were typically built with lightweight frame materials and large diameter wheels. But mountain biking is a sport that has only grown in popularity in recent years. As the sport has grown, so too has the range and quality of mountain bikes on the market. However, for many people, the cost of a high-end mountain bike is simply out of reach. Fortunately, there are still plenty of great and best mountain bikes under 200$. 

When it comes to mountain bikes, there are a lot of factors to consider. Wheel size, frame material, suspension type, and geometry all play a role in how a bike will perform on the trail. With so many bikes on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best mountain bikes under $200. Whether you’re looking for a hardtail or full-suspension bike, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s take a closer look at each one in turn.

Best Mountain Bikes Under 200$

Top Pick









Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike



  • TZ-31 Rear Derailleur
  • 6 Speed Drivetrain
  • 6 Speed Twist Shifter
Budget Buy







Dynacraft 26″ Men’s Silver Canyon Dual Suspension



  • Front & Rear V-Brakes
  • Quick Release Seat Post
  • 21 Speed Index Derailleur
Trending Now







Elecony 26/27.5 Inch Mountain Bike



  • High-Carbon Steel
  • Mechanical DISC BRAKE
  • Front Suspension

Best Mountain Bikes Under 200$ [Expert Bike Picks]

All the bikes listed in this article are under $200, so you can get one without investing a fortune. Let’s have a look at the best cheap mountain bike under $200 & $600.

1. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike

Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike

Bike Type           Mountain Bike
Age Range (Description)          Adult
Brand Huffy
Wheel Size 26 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Front
Special Feature                                                                                     Suspension Fork, Lightweight
Included Components Bike (1)
Number of Speeds 21
Size 26 Inch Wheels/17 Inch Frame

 

If you need a quality ride in the mountains, then this mountain bike should be your choice. The bike has excellent ergonomics and has a powerful gearing system manufactured by Shimano. The wheel size of this bike is around 26 inches, and you can enjoy a fast ride with it. Also, the 21 speed on-demand gear system will help you in climbing steep hills without much effort. Moreover, the frame is made using steel, which is sturdy and resists corrosion. When we talk about the suspension, then you will find only the best with this mountain bike. The knobby tires will help you in passing the bike through puddles. Also, you will get a considerable brake force due to the enormous tires.


Pros

  • Best affordable mountain bike
  • Rigid frame
  • 21 speed Shimano gear system
  • Front fork suspension


Cons

  • Assembly can be a bit challenging
  • No disc brakes

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2. Dynacraft 26″ Men’s Silver Canyon Dual Suspension

Dynacraft 26" Men's Silver Canyon Dual Suspension

Bike Type Mountain Bike
Age Range (Description) 13+
Brand Dynacraft
Wheel Size 26 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Dual
Included Components Bike (1)
Number of Speeds 21
Size 26″

 

Designed for thrill seekers, these 26″ Dynacraft Silver Canyon Bikes are a great ride! A matte black, white and orange mountain bike completes this rugged ride. In addition to the 21-speed index derailleur and grip shifters, the 26″ bike features padded saddles, quick release seat posts and front/rear v-brakes. You’ll have a great time out on the trails on this 26″ Dynacraft Silver Canyon bike no matter where your adventure takes you. Surely, this is one of the best mountain men’s bikes under 200 dollars.


Pros

  • Aluminum fork suspension
  • Smooth gear shifter
  • Shimano pedals
  • Groovy tires for a better ride


Cons

  • No front or rear disc brake
  • No pannier mount

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3. Diamondback Bicycles Cobra Youth Mountain Bike

Diamondback Bicycles Cobra Youth Mountain Bike

Bike Type                                                                                 Mountain Bike
Age Range (Description) Adult
Brand Diamondback Bicycles
Wheel Size 27.5 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Front
Special Feature Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
Included Components Complete Bicycle
Number of Speeds 24
Size Medium/5’7″-5’10”

 

Here is another best cheap mountain bike under 200 dollars that will take you on an exciting ride to the mountains. The bike features a 21-speed gear system made by Shimano. Also, the Shimano Tourney 3×7 speed drivetrain will help you in conquering the paths and dirt trails even if you are not very tall. This bike also got a Hl Zoom 40mm travel fork suspension system that can soak up the effect of the bumps while offering a comfortable ride quality to you. Using the linear brakes, you can stop the bike any time while keeping it under control.


Pros

  • Smooth drivetrain
  • Ideal for users that are not very tall
  • Comfortable seat
  • Powerful brakes


Cons

  • No quick-release front wheel

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4. Elecony 26/27.5 Inch Mountain Bike

Elecony 26/27.5 Inch Mountain Bike,

 

Bike Type Mountain Bike
Age Range (Description) Adult
Brand Elecony
Wheel Size 26 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Front
Special Feature Lightweight
Included Components Tool Kit
Number of Speeds 21
Size 26-Inch Wheels

 

A 26-inch-by-17-inch modern design steel frame ensures the Elecony Mountain Bike absorbs all bumps, providing a comfortable ride on forest paths, mountain roads & highways. With 21 speeds, the Shimano TZ500 shifter comes standard on the Elecony Mountain Bike. With the front & rear derailleurs, you can change gears quickly and smoothly regardless of the terrain. The Elecony Mountain Bike features simple mechanical disc brakes that increase braking precision and control falling under the list of the best mountain bikes under 200$.


Pros

  • The steel frame makes it durable
  • 26-inch wheels for great traction
  • Twist shifters make the shifting gears smooth


Cons

  • The steel frame may make it a bit heavy
  • You will have to assemble the bike on your own

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5. Max4out 26 Inch Folding Bikes Mountain Bike

Max4out 26 Inch Folding Bikes Mountain Bike: Mountain Bikes Under 200$

Bike Type Folding Bike
Age Range (Description) Adult
Brand Max4out
Wheel Size 26 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Rear
Special Feature Foldable
Included Components Mudguard
Number of Speeds 21

 

With a folding frame in Max4out mountain bikes, storage and portability are made simple. Shimano 21-speed shifters feature a dual suspension system and Shimano rear derailleur, which are designed to reduce wind resistance and improve comfort. Shimano 21-speed shifters use linear pull brakes in the front & rear for precise shifting and stopping. A lightweight alloy rim and all-terrain tires adorn the wheels. A mountain tire fits on a light, durable alloy wheel for extra stability on all terrains. Also, an easy-to-adjust seat post allows for quick height changes. We can call it one of the best mountain bikes under 200$.


Pros

  • Front disc brake available
  • Easy to assemble
  • Removable seat
  • Smooth-shifting


Cons

  • Pedals can break easily on tough rides

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6. PanAme Mountain Bike

PanAme Mountain Bike: Mountain Bikes Under 200$

Bike Type Folding Bike
Age Range (Description) Adult
Brand PanAme
Wheel Size 26 Inches
Specific Uses For Product Trail
Suspension Type Rear, Front
Special Feature Foldable
Included Components Tool Kit
Number of Speeds 21

 

Designed for off-road cycling, the PanAme mountain bike has a wide range of features. This all-terrain bike will help you conquer any trail off-road. Designed for mountain biking, this frame has a front suspension fork to help you ride smoothly. It features 21 gears through a complete drivetrain, and all you have to do is use your index and middle fingers to easily change gears. The rear derailleur guard provides protection against damage. You can rest assured of your safety with disc brakes on your front and rear axles. Assembly takes only 15-20 minutes! Enjoy riding this bike without limits. Except this folding mountain bike, this brand is also famous for the best hybrid bikes under 200$.


Pros

  • The aluminium frame makes it a lightweight bike
  • The bike has full suspension providing the comfortable ride
  • The saddle of the bike is very comfortable
  • Front and rear brakes make the braking system reliable


Cons

  • You will have to assemble the bike on your own

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Buying Guide: How to Buy the Best Mountain Bike

Buying a mountain bike can be challenging if you are a beginner! But we are here with some essential factors that you should consider before buying one.

Frame

Check the frame of the mountain bike before buying it. We all know that the roads at the mountains are full of off beaten paths, rocks, and much more, so it is essential to buy a bike that has a robust frame that can withstand significant impact. Generally, these bikes are made using lightweight aluminum, which is durable and is light in weight. Also, you can buy the best mountain bikes that are made using titanium, carbon fiber, steel, and much more based on your budget.

Wheels

Usually, the size of wheels used in mountain bikes is around 26 inches in size. But now people are more inclined towards buying mountain bikes that have bigger wheels ranging from 27.5 inches to 29 inches. Ultimately, it depends on the type of ride you want to do. If you want to travel longer, then you should choose a mountain bike with wheel size of 29 inches as these are ideal for crossing multiple terrains without any hassles. In case you want to ride fast, then shorter wheels can be excellent for you.

Suspension

Suspension plays a significant role, especially when the terrain is a mountain. You have to check the suspension of the mountain bike before finalizing it. Go for bikes that have branded suspension, which is made using carbon fiber. All the bikes listed here have quality suspension that can support the bike on any type of terrain.

Gears

The choice of gears depends on your ride quality. If you want to ride on flat mountains, then a mountain bike with lesser gears should be your choice. However, if you want to ride the bike on steep hills, then you need a bike that has a higher number of gears. You should keep in mind that you can modify the gears of these bikes any time as per your needs. As a result, gearing shouldn’t be the most significant concern when buying a mountain bike.

Built-in Panniers

Do you want to carry some stuff with you on the ride? Well, the built-in panniers will help you in keeping some luggage handy! Check whether the bike has a built-in mount for attaching panniers so that you can keep some luggage with you on the ride.

Bottle Holders

Check whether the bike has a bottle holder where you can carry some water to stay hydrated during the ride. You can also buy some easy to fit bottle holders that can fit with almost all types of mountain bikes.

Budget

Yes, all the mountain bikes reviewed by our team are under the budget, but you still consider your budget beforehand. You can get a decent and the best budget mountain bike for $300 and even less under great deals. If you have more money to spend on your mountain bike then you go for the best mountain bikes under $600

Final Thoughts

There is nothing better than enjoying the thrilling experience of riding on a mountain, and for that, you need a mountain bike. Get any of these best bikes under 200 and head towards the nearest trail or mountain for some fun.

As we suggested, make sure to buy the best riding gear so that you can protect yourself from any possible injuries during the ride. Also, go through the buying guide and FAQ section to accumulate some more information about the best mountain bikes under 200$.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I need safety gear for mountain biking?

Yes, it would be great if you buy safety gear & GPS Tracker while mountain biking. Riding on these roads and off-beaten paths can be dangerous, and you will get added safety if you are wearing branded gear while riding. You can buy a kit of safety gear along with the bike to make sure that you remain safe and protected.

Q2. I want to ride with a professional mountain biking crew, are there any terms I should know?

Professional mountain bikers use some terms to communicate easily with outer fellow riders. Here are some tips that can help you in joining the conversation.

  1. LBS: Local Bike Shop
  2. Pimp: Someone selling or leasing bikes on the trail
  3. Air: the space between the bike and the ground
  4. Dab: Balancing the bike with one good on the ground
  5. Bomb: Riding without following the safety protocol
  6. Carve: Speeding towards a curve
  7. Granny Year: Shifting to the lowest gear of the mountain bike

You can follow these slang or terms to get some assistance from any fellow riders while using these straightforward terms.

Q3. I’ve never been mountain biking, what should I do?

It’s quite common to worry if you haven’t been mountain biking in your life! The best thing you can do is join a professional mountain biking crew or team. Some even organizers even plan some events where novice riders can participate. It would be a lot easier for you to ride with some other riders who are always there to help you in need.

Author

I am Alina, O.bike’s longest-serving technical writer and specialises in the technical side of cycling. Before joining O.bike, I was a successful road racer, competing in many international races worldwide. I am one of O.bike’s lead testers and knows how to push the products to their limit to review the best bike having excellent money value.