Top 15 best mountain bikes: price/quality ranking 2021-2022 and what budget to choose

1Mountain bikes are specially created for riding on off-road and rugged terrain.

Such models are usually equipped with several speeds, front and rear brakes, as well as quality shock absorption, which reduces the discomfort of riding on rough roads.

How to choose the right mountain bike? What technical characteristics are worth paying attention to?

The answers to these questions we will try to give in the article, and choose the right model will help rating the best mountain bikes in the price/quality ratio.

These are the models that users have named the best in 2021-2022.

Top 15 best mountain bikes 2021-2022 ranking

Place Name Price
Top 5 best mountain bikes by price/quality for 2021-2022
1 FORWARD Apache 27.5 2.0 Disc (2020) Check price
2 STELS Navigator 770 D 27.5 V010 (2020) Ask the price
3 FORWARD Apache 27.5 3.0 Disc (2020) Ask the price
4 Stinger Reload LE 29 (2020) Asked price
5 STARK Tactic 27.5 FS HD (2020). Check out the price
Top 4 budget mountain bikes
1 STELS Navigator 500 MD 26 F010 (2019) Learn the price
2 Desna 2612 V. Learn the price
3 STELS Navigator 645 MD 26 V010 (2020) Learn the price
4 STELS Navigator 630 V 26 K010 (2019) Learn the price
Top 3 best men's mountain bikes
1 STELS Navigator 620 MD 26 V010 (2018) Check out the price
2 FORWARD Apache 27.5 1.0 (2020) Learn the price
3 Eltreco XT 800 (2020) Learn the price
Top 3 best women's mountain bikes
1 STELS Miss 6100 D 26 V010 (2019) Learn the price
2 FORWARD Iris 26 1.0 (2020) Learn the price
3 FORWARD Iris 26 2.0 Disc (2020) Check out the price

How do I choose a mountain bike?

Since mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding, when choosing a vehicle, pay attention to the technical characteristics, because the comfort of riding depends on them.

The main criteria for choosing a mountain bike are:

  1. Riding style. Mountain bikes are divided into several types, depending on the style of riding. For example, cross-country models are designed for cross-country rides. Downhill bikes are used for extreme descent from mountains and hills, and models in the style of street or dart - for jumps on special ramps.
  2. Wheel Diameter. If a bicycle is bought for a child, it is worth giving preference to a model with wheels of 24 inches. Universal vehicles are considered vehicles with 26-inch wheels, and models with 29-inch wheels allow you to comfortably overcome obstacles.
  3. Frame Material. Steel - too heavy a material for a mountain bike, so most modern models are equipped with frames of aluminum or chrome-molybdenum alloy.

Also, before buying always check the number of speeds and convenience shifting gears, braking system reliability, and equipment.

2

Top 5 best mountain bikes by price/quality for 2021-2022

Since the choice of mountain bikes in today's market is truly huge, picking a model that combines decent performance characteristics with a reasonable cost will not be difficult. For 2021-2022, five models were voted best in this category.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 2.0 Disc (2020)

A relatively inexpensive classic mountain bike model that shows 1Excellent performance on asphalt and rugged terrain.

The lightweight frame is made of aluminum alloy, and the low weight of the vehicle makes it truly maneuverable and easy to handle. Optimal wheel diameter allows not only a high speed, but also to successfully overcome obstacles.

The model is available in several frame modifications, so everyone can pick up a bicycle for their height.

Soft fork provides an easy ride, and quality shock absorption reduces the shaking on rough pavement.

Technical features:

  • 15, 19 or 21-inch frame
  • 27.5" wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • Adequate cost, given the high performance characteristics;
  • excellent build quality;
  • reliable braking system works quickly;
  • sturdy regular pedals;
  • lightweight aluminum frame.

Cons

  • Not a good location of the front brake cable;
  • I can hear a crackling noise when the pedals are heavily loaded.

STELS Navigator 770 D 27.5 V010 (2020)

A bright, stylish, but expensive bike designed for extreme riding on 7off-road.

The vehicle is available in several frame modifications, so that everyone can pick up a bicycle for height.

The frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, which facilitates handling and allows you to easily carry a bike in your hands.

Air fork design and quality shock absorption provide high comfort of riding even on serious off-road.

The wheels have a universal diameter, so the rider can easily negotiate obstacles or reach a high enough speed..

The disc hydraulic braking system works instantly and provides complete safety for the rider.

Technical features:

  • 15.5, 16 or 17-inch frame
  • 27.5" wheels;
  • 11 speeds.

Pros

  • comfortable and wide standard platform pedals;
  • fast gear shifting;
  • reliable braking system;
  • low weight due to the lightweight aluminum frame;
  • optimal wheel diameter.

disadvantages

  • low quality of assembling of wheels;
  • high cost.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 3.0 Disc (2020)

Universal and inexpensive bike model is suitable for city walks and for 2cross-country riding.

Lightweight aluminum frame is not afraid of corrosion, and makes the vehicle really lightweight and maneuverable.

When necessary, the user can easily carry a bicycle in his hands.

So that the rider does not feel discomfort while riding on rough terrain, the manufacturer has equipped the model with spring-elastomer fork and quality shock absorption.

Optimal wheel diameter allows to overcome obstacles on dirt roads or to develop a high speed when riding on asphalt.

The double wheel rim, as well as the frame, is made of aluminum alloy, and a sufficient number of speeds allows you to find the best type of riding, depending on the type of road surface.

Technical specifications:

  • 15, 17, 19 or 21-inch frame
  • 27.5" wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • reliable hydraulic brakes;
  • affordable price;
  • the wheels provide good cross-country mobility;
  • A sufficient choice of speeds;
  • reliable aluminum frame.

Disadvantages

  • not a very good quality regular tires;
  • bad fork - most users immediately replace it.

Stinger Reload LE 29 (2020).

A stylish, bright and affordable bike that was released in 2021-2022, and it 3immediately earned the trust of users due to the excellent technical and performance characteristics.

The spring-oil fork design and modern cushioning make cross-country riding truly comfortable. If necessary, the spring stiffness can be adjusted depending on riding style and type of road surface.

Increased wheel diameter and aluminum rims make the bike really light and compact.

Safety is ensured by a mechanical disc brake, and a wide choice of speeds lets you adapt your riding style to the type of pavement.

Technical features:

  • 18, 20 or 22-inch frame
  • 29-inch wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • lightweight aluminum alloy frame;
  • smooth and soft gear shifting;
  • quality reinforced tires included;
  • excellent cross-country due to the increased diameter of the wheels;
  • adequate price.

Cons

  • too narrow saddle;
  • no trunk.

STARK Tactic 27.5 FS HD (2020).

One of the most expensive mountain bikes on the market today, but its value 1is fully justified by the advanced technical and performance characteristics.

The device is available in several frame options, so that everyone can choose a bike for their height.

It is very easy to carry the vehicle in hand, because its frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy.

Ride comfort increases the spring and oil fork and modern shock absorption.

Spring stiffness can be adjusted depending on the type of road surface.

Wheel diameter is not the largest, but it provides optimal cross-country ability and allows you to overcome obstacles.

For safe travel, the unit is equipped with a hydraulic disc brake, which triggers instantly.

Technical features:

  • 18, 20 or 22-inch frame
  • 27.5" wheels;
  • 9 travel speeds.

Pros of

  • wide comfortable seat;
  • optimum wheel diameter provides good cross-country mobility;
  • successfully overcomes obstacles and bumps in the road;
  • sufficient number of speeds;
  • modern braking system.

Cons

  • high cost;
  • Some users consider the number of speeds insufficient.

Top 4 budget mountain bikes

If the budget to buy a mountain bike is limited, it is worth looking at inexpensive models. They are in the lines of many brands, but at a budget cost have quite decent technical and operational characteristics.

STELS Navigator 500 MD 26 F010 (2019)

Inexpensive mountain bike with optimal cross-country ability will provide a comfortable ride 1on any off-road..

The vehicle is presented in several frame modifications, so to pick up a model for height will not be difficult.

Affordable price is due to the fact that the frame of the bike is made of steel. This is inexpensive but durable material, but because of this the weight of the device increases significantly.

Soft fork and modern shock absorption are provided for added ride comfort.

A mechanical type front and rear brake is also provided, and the unit has 21 gears to adjust your riding style.

Technical specifications:

  • frame at 16, 18 or 20 inches;
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 21 gears.

Pros of

  • Is confident on dirt roads and climbs;
  • affordable cost;
  • high riding comfort;
  • attractive design;
  • sufficient number of gears.

Cons

  • Not a very high-quality assembly: the steering wheel is constantly turning;
  • no fenders and a bell in the kit.

Desna 2612 V.

Budget mountain bike of domestic production has sufficient 2performance characteristics for comfortable off-road rides.

Initial level of soft fork and modern shock absorption provide increased comfort of off-road riding.

The model is presented only in one version of the frame, but by adjusting the height of the handlebars the parameters of the vehicle can be adjusted depending on the height of the user.

Wheel diameter is small compared to other models, but even 26 inches is enough for optimal passing uphill and small obstacles.

Also it has front and rear brakes and 7 speeds which allow you to adjust your riding style to the peculiarities of the road surface.

Technical features:

  • 18-inch frame
  • wheels on 26 inches;
  • 7 speeds.

Pros of

  • Reliable, high quality and inexpensive bike;
  • suitable for off-road riding;
  • comfortable and wide enough seat;
  • A sufficient number of speeds;
  • comfortable and fast gear shifting.

Cons

  • no keys to assemble;
  • Comes without fenders.

STELS Navigator 645 MD 26 V010 (2020)

Bright and inexpensive mountain bike is suitable not only for off-road riding, but also 5for comfortable rides in the city..

For this purpose, the vehicle has all the necessary technical features. In particular, the device is equipped with a strong, but lightweight aluminum frame.

There is a soft fork and quality shock absorption, and wide pedal platforms ensure optimal foot positioning during the ride.

Diameter of the wheels is small, and 26 inches, so the bike can not cope with serious off-road.

But for riding on dirt roads with minor bumps, the vehicle is enough.

Specifications:

  • frame for 16, 18 or 20 inches;
  • wheels at 26 inches;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • reliable brake system;
  • comfortable curved handlebar design;
  • reasonable price;
  • a wide choice of speeds;
  • removable wheels.

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for serious off-roading;
  • For some users, the handlebar overhang is too large.

STELS Navigator 630 V 26 K010 (2019)

A mid-priced mountain bike with thoughtful performance 2characteristics.

Because of this, the device is suitable for both urban cycling and off-road riding. It should be borne in mind that the diameter of the wheels is only 26 inches, so the bike will not be able to overcome serious obstacles.

Frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, so the bike is very easy to carry in their hands.

Additional comfort provides a spring-elastomer fork and quality shock absorption.

For a comfortable ride a wide enough and moderately rigid seat and a modern braking system provides a high level of safety.

Technical features:

  • 16" or 20" frame
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • Comfortable curved handlebar design;
  • sturdy and stable pedal platforms;
  • reliable braking system;
  • lightweight aluminum frame;
  • stylish, attractive design.

Cons

  • hard to find on sale;
  • some users don't like the quality of the plastic pedals.

Top 3 best men's mountain bikes

Men's mountain bikes are characterized by a special frame design and increased cross-country ability. Women will be able to use these vehicles, but for some bicyclists gear shifting and braking in these models will seem too harsh.

STELS Navigator 620 MD 26 V010 (2018)

A relatively inexpensive, but high-quality men's mountain bike that has all 2necessary characteristics for exciting extreme off-road riding.

At the same time, the technical characteristics of the device are designed so that the bike can also be used for walks in the city.

The frame is made of aluminum alloy and is available in several modifications, so that everyone can choose a device for their height.

For increased riding comfort, the bike has a quality shock absorption and comfortable spring-elastomer fork.

Wheel rims are also made of aluminum. The braking system is simple but reliable (mechanical), and the device provides both front and rear brakes for maximum safety on the road.

Technical specifications:

  • 14, 17 or 19-inch frame
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • affordable cost;
  • lightweight frame makes it easy to transport;
  • simple and clear instructions for assembly;
  • a sufficient number of gears;
  • a reliable mechanical braking system.

Cons

  • rear fender slams on the wheel on rough terrain;
  • is not intended for serious lack of roads.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 1.0 (2020)

Users who are looking for an inexpensive, but high-quality and sufficiently passable mountain 3bike, you should definitely consider this model.

It implements all the features necessary for full-fledged operation.

There are several modifications of the frame, so everyone can choose a model for growth.

For added riding comfort, there is a spring-elastomer fork and a modern shock-absorption system.

Large-diameter wheels have optimum cross-country ability on dirt roads and light off-road.

Also features a reliable braking system and a choice of speeds to adapt your riding style to the pavement.

Technical features:

  • 15, 17 or 19-inch frame
  • 27.5" wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • Wide and fairly stable pedal platforms;
  • adequate cost;
  • excellent build quality;
  • High-strength double rims;
  • comfortable and soft enough seat.

Cons

  • Not all users like the quality of cushioning;
  • Sometimes there is a manufacturing defect.

Eltreco XT 800 (2020).

The cost of this men's mountain bike is higher than average, but it is compensated 8Extended equipment and clever functionality..

Despite the fact that the frame size is only one, the owner will be able to adapt the device to his height, simply by adjusting the height of the seat and handlebars. Another feature of the model is that it runs on a built-in battery.

On a single charge, the bike is able to ride a maximum of 50 km.

But even after the battery runs out, the owner will be able to continue riding by simply pedaling in the usual way.

The aluminum alloy frame made the device as light and maneuverable as possible, and the double rims are not afraid of falls and mechanical damage.

There are only six speeds, but for riding in the city and easy off-roading it is quite enough.

Technical specifications:

  • 18-inch frame;
  • 27.5 inches wheels;
  • 6 speeds.

Pros of

  • High-capacity battery allows you to travel 50 km on a single charge;
  • Relatively low cost;
  • there is a trunk;
  • lightweight aluminum frame;
  • A sufficient number of speeds.

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for serious off-road;
  • not very high travel cost when traveling on battery power.

Top 3 best women's mountain bikes

The main difference between women's mountain bikes and men's bikes is the beveled shape of the frame. According to other characteristics, such vehicles are not inferior to bicycles for men and show good cross-country ability.

STELS Miss 6100 D 26 V010 (2019)

Bright, stylish and inexpensive bike was specially created for lovers of active 8lifestyle.

The bike has all the technical features for a comfortable ride: there is a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, wear-resistant dual rims, spring-ear fork and quality shock absorption.

With serious off-road bike can not cope, as the diameter of its wheels is only 26 inches..

However, this figure is enough to travel on dirt roads, overcoming small climbs and obstacles.

Rich choice of speeds allows you to adjust your riding style, focusing on the type of pavement, and reliable front and rear brakes ensure complete safety riding.

Technical features:

  • 15, 17 or 19" frame
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 21 speeds.

Pros of

  • excellent quality brakes;
  • attractive, girl-oriented design;
  • good rolling;
  • reasonable price;
  • comfortable saddle.

Cons

  • Not a very good quality shock-absorbing fork;
  • front fender rubbing against the wheel.

FORWARD Iris 26 1.0 (2020)

Another inexpensive mountain bike that's sure to appeal to 3For those who like active lifestyles..

It should be borne in mind that because of the steel frame bike is very impressive weight, and not every woman can carry a vehicle in her hands.

Other features and functions are very good: there is an adjustable handlebar lift, high-quality shock-absorbing fork and comfortable enough soft seat.

The wheels are equipped with double rims, which are highly resistant to wear and damage, and the excellent quality braking system ensures complete safety on the road.

Technical specifications:

  • 17-inch frame;
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 6 speeds.

Pros of

  • High-strength steel frame;
  • The kit provides a footrest;
  • comfortable and wide enough seat;
  • reasonable price;
  • a reliable braking system.

Disadvantages

  • few speeds;
  • There is a slight front wheel wobble.

FORWARD Iris 26 2.0 Disc (2020)

This mountain bike was specifically designed for women who love long 2long bike rides.

The frame is made of heavy-duty steel. The vehicle also features quality cushioning that provides high comfort for off-road riding.

The height of the frame is only one, but to adapt the bike to the height of the owner, simply adjust the height of the handlebars.

The wheels are equipped with double rims, which are also made of aluminum alloy..

Thanks to this bike weighs very little, and its owner can easily carry a vehicle.

Specifications:

  • frame of 17 inches;
  • 26-inch wheels;
  • 18 speeds.

Pros of

  • simple but reliable braking system;
  • frame made of lightweight but durable aluminum alloy;
  • sufficient number of speeds;
  • reliable, but simple brakes;
  • affordable cost.

Disadvantages

  • not very good quality regular tires;
  • not always available on sale.

What company to choose?

Equally important is the manufacturer of the mountain bike.

As shown by the analysis of user reviews, the best manufacturers of mountain bikes in 2021-2022 were recognized by FORWARD, STELS, Stinger, STARK and Eltreco.

The rating of mountain bikes included the most successful models of these manufacturers, and detailed descriptions and specifications will help determine the choice.

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