5 Best Downhill Mountain Bikes Available on the Market in 2017
Downhill mountain biking is a thrilling, fast-moving form of mountain biking taking place on steep trails and mountainous terrain, cycling courses, and off-season ski slopes.
Ridden at high-speeds and through a variety of rugged terrain, hardtail downhill bikes are exceptionally sturdy and feature extraordinary full suspension systems that function reduce shock and overall impact.
Much heavier in weight than traditional mountain bikes, downhill bikes are built for the most intense of riding experiences and are constructed to withstand a high degree of abuse. The frames found on downhill bikes are made from the highest-strength materials available for bicycles, including carbon fiber, titanium, and steel.
Downhill bikes are not versatile in nature and should be purchased by riders who will primarily use them for fast-paced downhill riding. Cutting-edge technology has provided downhill riding aficionados a wide variety of products to choose from, with state-of-the-art suspension systems, industrial-grade materials, and high-end performance elements that enhance lightning-fast downhill treks.
If you are interested in purchasing a new downhill bike and would like to find out the top models for purchase in 2017, read on below for comprehensive, information-packed reviews on the most awesome downhill bike models available on the market.
1. Kent Thruster KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Kent’s KZ2600 Mountain Bike features a boldly striking aesthetic composed of royal blue, black, and silver accents.
With its state-of-the-art floating-beam suspension system, industrial-grade aluminum frame, and premium suspension fork, the Thruster is a force to be reckoned with.
Further enhancing the top-performance capabilities of this bike is the presence of Shimano shift control featuring a range of 21 speeds and a rear-situated derailleur, along with exceptionally strong aluminum wheelsets configured in a V-shaped formation.
Perfect for the rider looking to cut a striking figure on the downhill circuit, the Kent Thruster offers distinctive looks, high performance, and affordable pricing to boot.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $200 | 20.1 pounds | 55 x 28 x 8.5 inches |
PROS:
- Alloy hubs featuring high flanges
- Rear and front disc brakes
- 26-inch comprehensive suspension system
- Shimano shifter controls featuring a range of 21 speeds
- Rear derailleur
- Alloy rims
Cons:
- Users have reported improperly functioning shift controls
2. Mongoose Status 2.2 Women's 26" Wheel Mountain Bike
Made specifically for women, the Mongoose Status is beautifully fashioned in a striking teal-colored body with lime green accents. High-performance elements such as an aluminum frame featuring hydro-formed tubing and a front-situated suspension fork make this bike built for performance with unparalleled durability.
A rear-situated Shimano derailleur provides riders with the smoothest of gear changes on lightning-fast rides while front and rear v-style brakes ensure the quickest of stops in rough terrain conditions.
Lightweight, super-durable alloy wheels contend with the roughest of environmental elements while the riser-style handlebars provide a secure grip throughout your downhill adventure.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $200 | 42.5 pounds | 8.5 x 27.01 x 51.5 inches |
PROS:
- Made specifically for women
- Front and rear v-style brakes ensure abrupt stops
- Durable alloy wheels withstand harsh environmental elements
- Hydro-formed tubing and a front-situated suspension fork provide heightened performance
CONS:
- Consumers have reported a difficult assembly and requiring professional assistance
3. Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle
Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension bike is touted as enabling you to “breakaway on the impasse,” and leave behind life’s hassles and hectic nature by providing you exciting opportunities to engage in lightning-fast downhill biking for stress-reducing, exhilarating fun.
Making top-quality mountain and downhill-style bikes since 1974, Mongoose is one of the most trusted names in the business.
Their Impasse model features an industrial-grade aluminum framed suspension for optimal performance and comfort, while their 21-speed rear-located derailleur from Shimano enables riders to change gears swiftly.
For the most discriminating of buyers in search of a premium downhill bike, the Impasse is a worthy investment that will provide hours of entertaining fun.
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Less than $300 | 44 pounds | 57 x 9 x 31 inches |
PROS:
- Super strong alloy wheels with quick-release functionality
- Rear-situated Shimano derailleur
- Reputable, trusted company
- Aluminum framed suspension
CONS:
- Priced at the higher end of the price spectrum; may be cost prohibitive for some buyers
4. Diamondback Bicycles Recoil 29er Full Suspension Mountain Bike
This red, white, and black downhill mountain bike is distinctive with its striking looks and boldly robust tires.
Its frame is composed of incredibly strong aluminum and alloy materials while performance elements include a Shimano drivetrain, 3x8 speed shift controls, derailleurs on the front and rear of the bike, and a Suntour suspension fork to provide riders with utterly smooth, reliable and quick shifting while traveling through a variety of rugged terrain.
With its large 29-inch wheels, this downhill mountain bike reduces resistance from rolling and also enables you to roll over a wide variety of obstacles such as rocks, logs, and other elements easily and safely.
A performance bike packed with tons of high-performance extras, the Diamondback Recoil Full Suspension Mountain Bike is an affordable option with quality on par with many higher priced competing models
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $200 | 20.1 pounds | 55 x 28 x 8.5 inches |
PROS:
- Handlebars, seatpost, and stem are all fabricated with corrosion-resistant alloy materials that are strong, lightweight, and durable
- Tires feature super strong thread and a Kevlar belt to provide puncture-resistance Puncture-Resistant Kevlar belt
- Shimano shift controls
- Front and rear derailleurs from Shimano
CONS:
- Users have reported bike shipments arriving poorly assembled and needing to be returned
5. Rocky Mountain Flatline Park
Heralded as the creme de la creme in downhill mountain bikes, the Rocky Mountain Flatline Park is a bike suited for seasoned pros, expert riders, and the most dedicated of downhill riding aficionados.
With its breathtaking ebony-colored frame accented by artful accents of red, yellow, and blue, this bike cuts a dashing figure on downhill courses.
Packed full of the most desirable performance elements available, the Rocky Mountain Flatline features an all-alloy custom hydroformed framed body, hydraulic disc brakes, performance suspension fork, Shimano build elements throughout and much more.
We make every effort to ensure accuracy, but reserve the right to update specifications & prices
Pricing | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
Around $3000 | Varies by size | Small, medium, and large size choices |
PROS:
- All-alloy custom hydroformed framed body
- Gorgeous and unique color scheme
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Performance suspension fork
- Shimano build elements
Cons:
- Top of the spectrum pricing will be cost prohibitive for many buyers
For more valuable information on the different kinds of locks available on the market today, visit us at bikingtribe.com.
With our crew of highly-trained specialists, we are among the leading sites online for information pertaining to bicycles, security, performance, and more.
