The 15 Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 in 2022

Looking for a new MTB for a reasonable price? Then read my article for the best mountain bikes under the budget of $300. I have also included a buying guide section stating the important factors and features you need to consider for choosing.

Riding a mountain bike is one of the exciting leisure activities you can do, together with your families and colleagues. You get to enjoy the greenery and rough terrain of the mountains and forests. Aside from leisure, cycling is a good exercise for your heart and lungs.

However, looking for the best mountain bikes under $300 is not an easy task, because it all depends on how much you know about MTBs. Truth to be told, they’re a lot of factors you need to consider and you have to know which brand counts.

In case you don’t know which size of mountain bike to choose, please consider these mountain bike size charts:

Men’s Mountain Bike Size Chart // Women’s Mountain Bike Size Chart

To help you out on this journey, I have made this guide on the best MTBs without breaking your wallet. I have carefully handpicked the top 15 best mountain bikes under $300. Read my article so you can better understand the essentials of mountain bikes.

Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 – Comparision Chart

IIt’s easy to decide to pick the best mountain bikes under $300 if there is enough information like the weight, frame, wheel size, suspension, and gears.

Top 15 Best Mountain Bikes Under $300 Reviews in 2022

To save you some time from doing market research, I have done it for you. I have dedicated a few hours to know the benefits and features of these mountain bikes. Check out the pros and cons of each model so you can have a better decision about it.

Best for Overall: Xspec 26” Folding Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• The high-quality foldable steel bike frame
• Disc brakes on both wheels
• 21-speed gear setting
• Tough and sturdy MTB tires

This is my top pick for this article about the best mountain bike under $300. It has a reliable and durable folding mechanism which makes it highly portable for trailing, commuting, going to school or work. Its folding bike frame is made from high-quality carbon steel material, thus, fewer worries about corrosion and dents.

Besides that, it also has a full suspension system (both at the front and rear bike section) so that there is a great reduction of shocks and vibration. Its 21-speed setting lets you alter your speed and power on various terrains. Combining this with the rugged tread patterns in its tires, you will have seamless traction on virtually all types of road surfaces.

In terms of the brake mechanism, this one utilizes the disc brake on both wheels. Hence, you will have a stronger and durable stopping system that prevents head-on collision with barriers and rocks.

If you wish for more folding mountain bikes, i have a list of top 15 folding mountain bikes here. Most folding bikes are lightweight so that people can carry it around.

Runner Up: Mongoes Mech MTB 24”/26”

Product specs

Key features

• Excellent tread patterns for gripping
• The rim braking system works perfectly
• Durable and lightweight aluminum frame

For a very reasonable price, this mountain bike is great for kids and teens. For a ten-year-old kid, he or she can still tiptoe and touch the ground, thus, it can grow old with your kid. The gear selection comes pretty smooth and hassle-free. You would also see uniform tread patterns on its wheels which exudes excellent biting grip on the ground.

The braking system is present on both the front fork and rear section which efficiently works at short distances. The front suspension system works great as well when it comes to bumpy surfaces. Overall, it is a great bike for an affordable price.

Best Hardtail Suspension: Merax Mountain Bike 26”

Product specs

Key features

• Dual disc brake
• Hardtail suspension
• 24-speed options

Comfortability in your ride is guaranteed with this mountain bike because of its hardtail suspension. The front suspension spring of this MTB greatly reduces shocks and promote a comfortable ride. Regardless of the road surface, you will have a smooth and easy ride with this bike.

It has a 24-speed setting which allows you to alter its power and speed on various landscapes. Shifting from one gear to another comes straightforward and easy. It uses a disc braking mechanism that provides a gradual and strong stopping force.

It has a uniform tread pattern with semi-aggressiveness which seems to be a hybrid type. This is essentially great for on-road and off-road surfaces. Overall, this is a great bike for beginners and amateurs while being affordable as well.

Best Trail Bike: Huffy Mountain Bike 24”/26”/27.5”

Product specs

Key features

• 21-speed trail bike
• Hardtail suspension
• Wide and large tires
• Rim brake mechanism

This trail mountain bike is impressionably good when it comes to giving you balanced power and fun on every road surface you want to trail. It has a hardtail suspension system, which sufficiently breaks down vibrations upon trailing on rocky off-road surfaces.

Its tires are wide and large which can truly help you easily balance and maintain a straight path on virtually all kinds of the path. It is a 21-speed trail bike that will never let you down either on uphill or downhill trails.

Its rim brake system works perfectly in giving slow and abrupt stopping force for safety purposes. For the price, this is an excellent trail bike with hardtail suspension.

Best for Smooth Gear Shifts: Roadmaster Granite 24” Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• Durable steel MTB frame
• 18-speed options
• Superb rim brakes

This mountain bike has 18-speed options wherein you can quickly and smoothly shift its gears to adapt your trail and speed. Apart from that, its hardtail suspension is great support for your all-out outdoor adventure. You can feel very less stress from the bumpy rides you are going to pass on the road.

Its rim brake system works reliably when you have to make gradual or sudden stops. Replacing the brake pads come simple and affordable. You can expect excellent traction on wet and muddy surfaces because its tires have larger tread blocks and wide grooves for self-cleaning action.

Roadmaster Navy 26” Granite MTB

Product specs

Key features

• Pull up brake operation
• Larger bike tires with aggressive tread designs
• Soft padded seat and grip handles

This one has parallel features with the previous Roadmaster bike I have above, with a larger wheel size and different color style. The distance of the handlebar towards the rider is just right. The grip handle is soft and comfy to grab on. The brake lever handles feel durable and smooth to operate as well.

There is no problem with shifting gears as well for this mountain bike. Likewise, you can count on its pull up brake system when you have to make a quick stop. Its hardtail suspension works well in mitigating stress from off-road surfaces. Its tread patterns also exude powerful traction on all types of surfaces.

Best for Comfort: Yeogned Mountain Bike 27.5”

Product specs

Key features

• Large bike wheels with tough tread designs
• Self-cleaning action
• Rim brakes
• Hardtail suspension

There is exceptional comfort from this mountain bike because of its foam-padded bike seat and its hardtail suspension. The grip handle is insulated with soft rubber for anti-slip and comfy gripping.

Apart from that, the wheels are durably made with sturdy wheel rims for the pull-up brakes to work on. When making half or full brakes, you can always count on this one. The pedal and frame are made from high-quality aluminum metal, thus, lightweight as well.

Overall, the comfort level of this mountain bike is impressionably great for the price.

Best for All-Around Trails: Titan 26” MTB Pathfinder Elite

Product specs

Key features

• Pull up V brake system
• 21-speed options
• 18” Aluminum frame
• Full suspension
• Convenient in shifting gears

What makes this Titan mountain bike great for all-around trails? First off, it has a 26” wheel size which makes it easy to traverse all types of terrain. It has larger and uniform tread designs that effective bites on the ground and push itself to roll over. Lastly, it has a full suspension system that eases the shocks on both front and rear bike sections.

The pedaling is very smooth because of its reduced rolling resistance without compromising traction. It has 21-speed options where you can conveniently shift gears and change speed immediately. Overall, this MTB is seemingly great for commuting and outdoor trailing.

Best for Full Suspension: Mongoose R4054 Mountain Bike 

Product specs

Key features

• 21-speed gear shifting
• Full suspension
• Rim V-brakes
• Rugged tread design

When you are looking for a dependable and good quality mountain bike with full suspension, then this model is an excellent choice. The presence of both shock-absorbing springs at the front and rear bike sections makes it possible to get a smooth ride.

Besides that, the superior traction of its MTB tires is fascinating to impressionably conquer all kinds of road surfaces. When it comes to wet and muddy surfaces, you never have to worry because it has deep grooves and larger tread blocks to seamless bite on the ground.

Its linear rim brake system works efficiently as well. Overall, I find this a great deal for beginners and seasoned bikers.

Best for Entry-Level: Royce Union RMT 27.5” Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• 21-speed
• Disc brake system
• Hardtail suspension
• 18”/20”/22” Aluminum frame

For those who want a friendly and easy to maneuver mountain bike for a start, this one is a stunning choice. The overall hardtail suspension and traction of this MTB is ideal for beginners. Not difficult to engage in motion and acceleration comes easy because it is made from a lightweight aluminum frame, wheels, and pedals.

If you want some variations with its power and speed, it has a 21-speed option for you. It uses a disc braking mechanism, thus, you can have a reliable and progressive stopping action for safety purposes.

Moreover, comfort is never compromised with this MTB because its seat is fully padded and the grip handle is insulated with soft rubber. Overall, it is truly a friendly and comfy MTB for beginners and professionals.

Titan 26” Punisher Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• 21-speed setting
• V-brake mechanism
• 18” Aluminum frame

This is a good mountain bike to grow with your children. There is guaranteed comfort with the ride because of the suspension spring in the front fork and rear section of the bike. Meanwhile, the size of its wheels is just right, so that you can cover a long distance in a short amount of time.

If you think the seat height is too high, then you can readily adjust it using its seat pin. The padded seat works well on bumpy terrains. Fairly, its 21-speed setting works as well. The gear shifting needs improvement, but it is fairly good for its price and age bracket.

Likewise, its rim V-brake system works as expected when you need to make sudden stops at any moment. Overall, it is a good MTB for you or your children.

Vertical Equator 26” Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• 21-speed settings
• Rim V-brake mechanism
• Hybrid tread design for paved and off-road surfaces
• Padded seat and rubber-insulated grip handle

For a reasonable price, this mountain bike has all the standard features of helping you conquer on-road and off-road surfaces. The design is pretty modern and sleek, which adds more fun to your outdoor activities.

Comfort is not a problem with this MTB because it has a full suspension spring in the front fork and rear section. Whether on what side is the shock or vibration, you will feel very less of it, thanks to this one. It also has a 21-speed setting which lets you change depending on the type of terrain and speed you want to have.

Further, its bike frame is made from quality aluminum, thus, it is light to carry and maneuver around. Overall, it is a pleasing bike to have for amateurs and pros.

Schwinn 24” Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• Hardtail suspension
• 7-speed gear settings
• Rim V-brake system
• Uniform and rugged treat patterns

The overall tread patterns, wheel size, and gear settings of this mountain bike let you enjoy your ride from pavements to bare and rocky surfaces. Its hardtail suspension mechanism works like a pro in reducing shocks from rocky and bumpy terrains.

Meanwhile, its 7-speed settings work fairly fine when you want to shift from low to high gears when encountering flat, uphill or descending terrains. For safety purposes, its pull V-brake system works flawlessly to let you safely go to a stop. If you need to repair the brake pads, it comes simple and affordable.

Overall, this mountain bike from Schwinn is an excellent choice for your children and yourself. You can opt for a larger wheel size if you like.

HY 20” 7-Speed Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• Hardtail suspension
• 7-speed setting
• Disc brakes (V-shape)
• Durable wheels

The best thing about this mountain bike model is its durable construction because its bike frame is made from steel. It utilizes hardtail suspension which provides you with great front shock-absorbing protection.

The 7-speed setting of this mountain bike works fine when you want to climb uphill terrains or rush safely on a downhill. The aggressive tread blocks of its tires enable us to effectively bite on muddy and wet surfaces. Overall, I find this a good quality mountain bike for a reasonable price.

Judi 26” Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Product specs

Key features

• Wheels are made of Magnesium
• Bike frame made from durable carbon steel
• Full suspension 
• 26” rugged MTB tires
• Disc brake system

The dark color style of this bike makes it look like a pro, not to mention its overall features and performance is surprisingly good. The full suspension mechanism at the front fork and rear works fairly well in giving you a smooth and fun ride. The disc brake mechanism is pretty strong and durable.

You can rely on its superb gripping because it has rugged and large tread blocks. The deep grooves contribute well to its self-cleaning action. No mud or dirt will be completely stuck in your bike tires.

The grip handle is covered with soft rubber for anti-slip features and comfort. The brake lever handle feels durable as well. The bike frame is made from high-quality carbon steel while its wheels are made of Magnesium metal. Thus, there is a good mixture of lightweight and durability.

Mountain Bikes Under $300 Buying Guide: How to Choose The Affordable MTB?

Because there are plenty of things you need to consider, I have narrowed down the list for you. Here are the basic and most essential factors you need to look for a mountain bike.

Mountain Bike Gears

One of the best features of mountain bikes is the many gears available to adapt to your adventure. Generally, MTBs can have one gear or up to thirty gears. As you go higher, the speed and strength of your mountain bike change. Inline, most brands require a manual approach for changing the gears of your bike.

In choosing how many gears you need to have for your mountain bike, you need to consider your physique and the terrain where you oftentimes ride. For those bikers who go on many steep and downhill terrains, opting for higher gears is a suitable choice.

In contrast, if you often ride on smooth and flat terrains and you have a strong physique, then going for lower gear levels is ideal.

MTB Frame

The skeletal structure of your mountain bike can be made from various materials, of which, steel and aluminum are the two most common compounds. Steel bike frames offer higher durability and resistance against bending, but heavier than the latter. Meanwhile, aluminum bike frames are very light compared to steel, yet still offers substantial strength.

Moreover, some brands of modern mountain bikes already use a combination of metals or an alloy (combined steel and aluminum). With this, you are better to enjoy a semi-lightweight and durable bike frame.

Meanwhile, some MTB frames are also made from carbon fiber and titanium. These materials are much lighter without being fragile.

Categories of Mountain Bikes

This factor can be your first choice before buying your new mountain bike. Each category has its benefits and limitations which you need to understand to learn more about which one best fits your physique and terrain.

• Park Bikes: This type is good for those going for the extreme downhill terrains, where it rolls over bumps and rocky surfaces. Riders must wear a helmet and protective gears to avoid huge cuts and wounds for unexpected events. It has a suspension travel of 170-200+ mm.
• All-Around Mountain Bike: If you want a versatile type, then going for an all-around mountain bike is a wise option. It can efficiently handle steep and downhill terrains. Rocky and bumpy rides will be smooth for this one as well. It has a suspension travel of 140-170 mm.
• Fat Bicycles: I recommend this one for those starting with bikes. Its wider tires are essential for having a convenient and easy trail on smooth and rough road surfaces. It works best for sandy and light snow surfaces. Typically, it has a tire width between 3.7” to 5”+.
• Cross-Country Bicycles: This type is an excellent choice for those who want efficient climbing power and running at a fast speed. It has a suspension travel of 80-100 mm.
• Trail Bicycles: This is the general type of mountain bike that is great for leisure and exciting trail. You can feel a balanced power for climbing and descent with a trail mountain bike. It has a suspension travel of 120-140 mm.

MTB Suspensions

• Full Bike Suspension: With this type, you have both front and rear shock-absorbing mechanism which reduces tension and vibration on the rider. There are exceptional comfort and traction for this suspension style. Bumpy, downhill and steep climbing rides will be hassle-free and convenient when you have this kind of MTB suspension.
• Hardtail Bike Suspension: Taken from its etymology, “hardtail”, it means there is zero suspension on the rear section of your bicycle. The front fork of your MTB only has the suspension feature which protects the rider from approaching head-on bumps and vibrations.
• Bikes with this suspension style are cheaper than those with full-suspension and require lower maintenance as well. Cross-country bicycles commonly have this kind of suspension, where there is a direct power transfer from the pedal towards the rear wheel.
• Rigid: A rigid bike suspension simply entails the absence of the shock-absorbing mechanism both on the front fork and rear section of your bike. MTBs with a rigid suspension comes at an affordable price and lesser maintenance requirements.

Bicycle Brake Mechanism

• Rim Brakes: This braking mechanism can be considered the most common and widely used for all types of MTBs and bicycles. It consists of two brake pads that grip on the wheel rims of the bike.

Pros: It is more affordable to repair or replace compared to disc brakes. Likewise, you can easily see if the brake pads needed to be replaced already.

Cons: Oftentimes, when the brake pads wear out, it goes as well with the wheel rims. Consequently, you need to replace both the wheel rims and the brake pads simultaneously. It provides less braking power on muddy and wet surfaces. You need to press harder on the brake levers located on the grip handle to exert a higher stopping force.

• Disc Brakes: Disc brakes work by gripping on the brake rotor that is attached to the wheel hub. There are two types of disc brakes: hydraulic and cable-operated disc brakes. The former provides reliable and increasing stopping force compared to cable-driven disc brakes.

Pros: It provides superior stopping force on all types of road conditions: wet or dry surfaces. Likewise, there is less strain on the fingers while braking. Moreover, you only have to replace the rotor during your maintenance session.

Cons: In contrast to rim brakes, it is easier to do an ocular inspection if the brake pads need to be replaced already. Replacing broke hydraulic disc brakes are more expensive compared to rim brake replacement.

Size of Bike Wheels

Upon walking into a bike shop, one of the common questions asked by the salesperson will be the wheel size of your bike. Today, there are plenty of wheel sizes available for mountain bikes, which include 26”, 24”, 27.5”, and 29”.

The basic wheel diameter is 26” and is commonly used for medium-sized mountain bikes. Meanwhile, if you want something in between 26” and 29”, then go for a 27.5” wheel size. It offers a balanced trail over smooth and rough terrains.

Rule of thumb, when you opt for longer rides, it is best to choose a larger wheel size because it gives you a longer range of travel. Larger wheel sizes may be challenging to accelerate, but once you are there, it is so easy to keep ongoing.

Frequently Asked Questions

So we are done with the buying guide, pointing out what matters in shopping for your mountain bike. Let me add more information regarding mountain bikes as I provided short answers for these commonly asked questions. Read carefully to gain more insights.

What is the common wheel size for kids?

Choosing a wheel size of 24” for your kid’s mountain bike is a good choice. It is the most accepted option for this age level.

Do I choose a mountain bike with a rigid or hardtail suspension?

Mountain bikes with rigid suspension come at a cheaper price than those with a hardtail. For beginners, you can opt for a rigid suspension to save more while having the standard quality of a mountain bike.

Do I need a mountain bike with many gears?

This depends on your physique and the usual trail you go for. If you often go for downhill and steep climbs, then choosing a mountain bike with several gears would be ideal. In contrast, if your usual trail is flat and smooth surfaces, then going for an MTB with fewer gears would alright.

My Top Pick

My top pick for this read is the Xspec 26” foldable mountain bike. By looking at its features, you can see a great balance between convenience and functionality. The foldable steel frame of this bike lets you get rid of using bike racks to store and carry your MTB around.

Its overall features and performance are excellent for trailing and casual ride, like when you are going to a nearby store in your neighborhood. Moreover, the price is very reasonable for this MTB model.

If you like my article, I would highly appreciate a comment or suggestion regarding the topic. Likewise, you can refer this to your friends and colleagues who will find this information worthwhile for them.