Mountain biking requires agility, power and, above all, a reliable bike. Visit high cost of mountain bikes can be daunting, but choosing the right bike is essential for embarking on off-road adventures. If you're new to mountain biking and don't know the difference between cross-country and trail, or if you need general advice on choosing a bike suitable for the outdoors, these beginner mountain bikes are a good place to start. We offer recommendations for specific models, as well as expert advice to get you started.
What to consider
Size
Choosing the right frame and wheel size is crucial to fit your mountain bike. Bikes are generally available in standard frame sizes: small, medium, large and extra-large. Some manufacturers also offer XS, XXL or custom frame sizes. The size of your bike depends on your height, so check the size charts on the brand websites to find the best match. However, some people prefer a different size depending on the ratio between their torso and leg length, so we recommend trying before you buy.
Adult bikes are generally fitted with 27.5" or 29" wheels. The former offer a more responsive and lively feel (smaller wheels accelerate faster), while the latter offer greater stability and a smoother ride, especially on rough terrain.
A more recent category of mixed-wheel mountain bikes, or "mullets", combine the best of both worlds, with a 29-inch wheel at the front and a 27.5-inch wheel at the rear, for improved steering stability and handling.
Suspension, Terrain and Forks
There are two types of suspension for basic mountain bikes: semi-rigid and full-suspension.
Semi-rigid mountain bikes have only front suspension, making them lighter, easier to climb, and better suited to cross-country (XC) riding, which includes forest trails, singletrack and service trails.
All-suspension bikes offer a more comfortable ride over varied terrain thanks to rear suspension, making them ideal for descents involving jumps or falls, as the rear suspension absorbs more impact.
The choice between a semi-rigid and a full-suspension bike depends on the terrain you want to cover and your budget. Full-suspension bikes are more expensive and generally require more maintenance, while semi-rigids are better suited to less technical XC trails.
Suspension travel, measured in millimeters, indicates the amount of compression of the fork or rear shock to absorb irregularities in the terrain. The right travel for you depends on your level of experience and the terrain you ride. The higher the travel, the more the suspension absorbs shocks, but this doesn't always guarantee a smoother ride. If you're not used to reactive shock absorbers, a suspension that's too soft could hamper your steep climbs, as the fork can compress as you pedal, to the detriment of your momentum and power.
Transmission
Most mountain bikes are equipped with a 1x drivetrain, i.e. a single chainring on the crankset. This system is quieter, requires less maintenance and reduces the risk of chain derailment compared with 2x or 3x drivetrains. A 1x drivetrain is also lighter, which is advantageous on steep climbs. At the rear, you'll generally find 10-, 11- or 12-speed cassettes that offer a wide range of ratios and tighter gear changes, further reducing the risk of derailment.
Seatposts
Standard seatposts can be manually adjusted to raise or lower the seat height, usually via the seatpost clamp, which requires no tools.
Mountain bikers lower their seatposts on descents for better manoeuvrability and a lower center of gravity, which helps avoid going over the handlebars or sliding. Conversely, they raise the seatpost on uphills to optimize pedaling and extend leg reach.
To simplify this process, a telescopic seatpost allows you to quickly adjust the saddle height via a lever on the handlebars while riding. This lever is usually connected to the seatpost by a cable. Telescopic seatposts add to the price of the bike, but are standard on some models. If you're not sure you need one right away, but may change your mind as you gain more mountain-biking experience, look for a bike compatible with a telescopic stem.
Electric Bikes
Although you can choose an electric mountain bike, we don't recommend them for beginners until you're comfortable with XC courses or trails. Electric bikes are easier to master on paved and level surfaces, where the only potential worry is traffic. Mountain biking is more technical than road biking, and the extra speed and weight of an electric bike can make it difficult for beginners to get the hang of. Once you feel comfortable with your abilities, don't hesitate to check out our recommendations for the best electric mountain bikes. For beginners, however, it's best to learn the basics before going electric.
