Do you wish to glide through gnarly trails without breaking the bank? I’m sure you are tired of hearing how it’s almost impossible to get a perfect mountain bike with a reasonable price tag.

Well, no matter what your experience with mountain biking is, you can definitely get the best mountain bike under 800 if you invest a portion of your time and efforts into picking great choices. 

Whether you are an intermediate or a novice biker looking for an entry-level mountain bike, inculcating mountain biking into your routine will be an easy job. Once you have set aside a budget, you will try to have maximum benefits and quality components within that budget. 

To make this task easier for you, I have already chosen five of the best mountain bikes that offer maximum performance under 800. Let’s have a look at their features and check which bike is fit for the title of the best mountain bike under 800.  

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5 Best Mountain Bikes Under 800 

1. Mongoose Impasse Mountain Bike

The first one on the list of the best mountain bikes under 800 is the Mongoose Impasse Mountain Bike. This well-engineered mountain bike is carved out of an aluminum frame which makes it super light and durable. 

This mountain-style frame is accompanied by internal cable routing. No matter what terrain you ride on, this lightweight mountain bike can tackle any surface, including complex as well as light trails. Its 29-inch wheels and frame size is considered appropriate for mountain bikers with 5’4″ to 6’2″ height. 

Being equipped with an efficient drivetrain and a vast range of gears, this affordable mountain bike allows you to have gear for every terrain you ride on. Switching between the 21 speeds offered by this bike is quite effortless with the help of trigger shifters that promise consistent gear operations. 

While picking the best mountain bike under 800, you cannot ignore the ability of a bike to ensure prompt stops. With highly-efficient dual mechanical disc brakes, this mountain bike will deliver commendable stopping power for a smooth ride in all weather conditions, no matter how rough your terrain is. 

These front and rear mechanical disc brakes definitely make this adult mountain bike stand out. For riding on complex topography, you need sufficient grip and stability. The 29 x 2.6” wide tires fitted in this trail bike allow for great traction and smooth rides over rugged terrains. 

These knobby and aggressively-treaded tires rest on lightweight double-walled alloy rims equipped in this mountain bike for added durability. Maintenance is an easy job with the three-piece crankset of this bike which is built of aluminum.

For crisp steering, this reliable mountain bike is equipped with a threadless headset. This adult mountain bike delivers unrivaled performance, even if you compare it with other hardtail mountain bikes under 1,000.

Pros
  • Lightweight aluminum suspension frame
  • Crisp steering with a threadless headset
  • All-weather stopping power
  • Internal cable routing
  • Minimal maintenance with a triple crankset
  • Maximum trail comfort
Cons
  • Front-wheel is too close to the pedals
  • Brakes require adjustments 


2. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike

Schwinn is a reputed bike brand known for manufacturing high-quality mountain bikes with an affordable price tag. This perfect blend of build quality and affordability is reflected in the Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike, which is an excellent choice if you intend to ride around rugged terrains. 

Even after being carved out of a steel frame, it is considered super light and easy to handle. This steel-framed mountain bike does not compromise durability either. It is equipped with wide mountain tires for excellent traction on all kinds of terrains and weather conditions. 

These knobby tires sit on strong alloy rims for added durability. Due to this, the puncture-resistant tires of this mountain bike are able to slice through any surface and ensure a stable ride. 

Its 24-inch wheels and 16-inch frame size are suitable for mountain bikers with 5’5” to 6’0” inches of height. The rear derailleur of this mountain bike, coupled with its twist shifters, allows for consistent gear changes. 

You can switch between the 21 speeds with ease, no matter how complex your trail is. Moreover, the alloy crank of this adult bike further allows for smooth shifting of gears and requires negligible maintenance. 

While we are deciding on the best mountain bike under 800, how can we forget the braking power? I won’t call the stopping power of this mountain bike as efficient as that of any other bike with mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, but the linear-pull V-brakes fitted in this bike do their job perfectly. 

These alloy linear-pull brakes located at the front and rear of your mountain bike allow for efficient speed control and no-slip stopping power, even on uneven terrains. Since the ability to tackle such surfaces is what you normally expect to form a mountain bike, you will not be disappointed by the ride quality offered by Schwinn High Timber.  

Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike

Pros
  • Durable steel frame
  • 21-speed transmission system
  • Secure stopping power
  • Optimal gearing
  • Adjustable quick-release seat post
  • Great traction 
Cons
  • Assembly is not beginner-friendly
  • Handlebars are too narrow


3. Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike

Even before the componentry, the first aspect to consider while looking for the best mountain bike under 800 is definitely its frame. With an ultralight aluminum frame, Gravity FSX 1.0 makes its way into this list for the title of the best mountain bike under 800. 

This durable aluminum-framed bike is not just maneuverable but also quite sturdy for bumpy terrains. With powerful dual disc brakes, it ensures a commendable stopping power that is unmatched. 

The ability to bring your mountain bike to an immediate halt on dirt-based terrains is extremely important, and its significance can never be over-emphasized. With these front and rear disc brakes, you can rely on the ability of this bike to offer excellent braking power. 

While riding on uneven terrains, you will despise riding bikes if you are constantly hit with shocks and vibrations. In order to dampen these jolts and avoid fatigue while riding, this mountain bike features advanced and adjustable rear and front suspension forks. 

Among all other cheap mountain bikes, this adult trail bike has a value of its own with Shimano shifters and quick-release wheels. You can easily switch between the 24 speeds of this mountain bike, even on rough terrains. 

No matter what terrain you choose to ride on, your ride quality will not be compromised. In fact, the mechanical alloy calipers fitted in this bike with 160mm rotors give you sufficient control even in unfavorable weather conditions. 

Like most mountain bikes, Gravity FSX 1.0 requires assembly. The only downside is that you may have to tune and adjust a few components before taking this bike out on the road. Therefore, if you lack the knowledge, you will have to take your bike to a local bike shop.

Pros
  • Trail-ready geometry
  • Advanced single-pivot rear suspension fork
  • Aluminum frame with hydroformed tubes
  • Quick-release wheels
  • Reliable 24-speed Shimano drivetrain
  • Powerful braking power
Cons
  • Brakes require tuning
  • No kickstand 


4. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike

The next one on the list of the best mountain bikes under 800 is the Schwinn Traxion, which is a dual-suspension mountain bike carved out of lightweight aluminum. This aluminum-framed mountain bike features 24 speed shifters which make it easy for you to change gears on rugged terrains. 

The front and rear derailleurs allow for consistent gear operations, no matter how unfavorable the weather is. With Schwinn alloy cranks, consistent gear operations are prioritized with negligible maintenance required. 

While riding off-road, it is apparent that you come across obstacles and road barriers. If your bike is not fitted with a powerful suspension mechanism, you will end up having an exhausting ride due to bumpy terrains. 

Fortunately, Schwinn Traxion features sturdy suspension forks that absorb all the road vibrations and jolts that cause fatigue, eventually improving your overall ride quality. While trail riding, a good braking system holds unmatched value as tackling steep descents requires excellent stopping power for your safety. 

Keeping this in mind, Schwinn chose to equip this mountain bike with high-performance dual mechanical disc brakes located at the front and rear of this bike. These mechanical disc brakes enhance your on-trail performance and deliver prompt braking power. 

Even so, if you want the best mountain bike under 800, you cannot stop at the braking power and suspension system. Mountain biking requires your bike to be able to glide through gnarly trails without compromising your comfort. While a strong suspension system plays a huge role in ensuring bump-free rides, you cannot maximize your ride quality without reliable mountain tires. 

This is why Schwinn Traxion features 2.25-inch wide knobby tires that are capable of slicing through complex topography and difficult ascents with ease. These aggressively-treaded tires rest on double-walled alloy rims, which are extra wide. 

Pros:

  • Aluminum dual suspension frame
  • Crisp all-condition stopping
  • High-profile alloy rims
  • Powerful suspension mechanism
  • Dual mechanical disc brakes
  • Adjustable seat post 

Cons:

  • Tires need to be aligned
  • Pedals tend to get loose

5. Kent International Mountain Bike

The last one on the list of the best mountain bikes under 800 is the Kent International 26″ KZ2600 mountain bike. This full suspension mountain bike is built of an ultralight aluminum frame to bring its overall weight down. 

Unlike other high-tensile materials like steel, aluminum-framed mountain bikes are super light and maneuverable. Despite being lightweight and easy to control, this well-engineered mountain bike is quite durable as it is built to last. 

When looking for the best mountain bike under 800, the frame material is indeed the very first aspect to consider. Even so, you cannot ignore the rest of the componentry. Getting a high-quality componentry within your budget is something you will look for in all the options you come across while searching for the best mountain bike under 800. 

With a dual suspension mechanism, this mountain bike minimizes fatigue and soaks up all the road vibrations you may come across while you take your mountain bike for off-road riding. Shimano is known for manufacturing fine-quality bike parts that most mountain bikers look for in their fat tire bikes. 

You will be impressed to know that this mountain bike features a Shimano rear derailleur and gear shifters. With 21 speed levels, you will always have gear for concrete-based terrains. Switching between these 21 levels is effortless with the high-quality speed transmission system that this mountain bike is equipped with. 

No matter how steady the gear operations are, if you are unable to control the speed of your mountain bike on challenging ascents, your bike will be worthless. Fortunately, this full suspension bike features a blend of disc brakes and linear-pull brakes. 

The rear end of this bike features linear-pull brakes, while the front of the bike is equipped with powerful disc brakes for crisp stopping. Although this bike is quite comfortable to ride, you may find its saddle to be slightly uncomfortable. It is not a big deal as you can simply invest in a comfortable saddle cover and prevent soreness. 

Pros:

    • Floating beam suspension design
    • Aluminum full suspension frame
    • 21-speed transmission system
    • Double-walled alloy rims
    • Durable mountain tires
  • Easy to assemble 

Cons:

  • Uncomfortable saddle
  • The front wheel tends to wobble 

Verdict

With all the brands and models, it is definitely not an easy task to choose the best mountain bike under 800. Mountain biking is not confined to a powerful suspension system or a rigid frame.

From aggressively-treaded tires to crisp stopping power, every other aspect plays an equally important role in deciding the best bike you can get under your budget. 

Who wouldn’t want to get the most out of the money they can spend? If you are really looking to get the maximum value for the amount you spend, I will suggest you not merely rely on attractive specifications. 

Ensuring that your riding preferences match the features of your mountain bike is just as important. If I have to declare a winner amongst these five mountain bikes under 800, I will invest my money in the Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike. 

Its advanced trail-ready geometry, coupled with a super light and durable aluminum frame, makes it a suitable choice for off-road riding. From braking power to its ability to smooth out bumps, I am impressed by the component and build quality it offers at such an affordable price. 

Author

  • Elliot Stokes

    Elliot Stokes is an avid mountain biker and writer. He has a passion for exploring new trails and documenting his adventures through his writing. In his free time, Elliot can be found hitting the trails on his mountain bike or typing away at his laptop, sharing his experiences with the world. He is known for his rugged, adrenaline-fueled style of mountain biking and his engaging and descriptive writing style.

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