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In recent years, there has been more and more buzz around mountain biking as a fun, action-packed way to get fit and spend some time in the great outdoors. A lot of people have got into mountain biking as a new way to enjoy more extreme style sports, as mountain biking is fast becoming one of the most popular of all extreme sports, threatening to even overtake other types of extreme biking like BMX and urban bikes. The reason is simple, mountain bikes allow for extreme biking in crazy terrain that you just cannot find in the city.

With a high-end mountain bike, you can take on the toughest terrain, no trouble whatsoever. Even those of us who live in cities often live close enough to a bike trail or a nature area that would allow us to take advantage of the fun of mountain biking. Even if you are not one for extreme sports, mountain biking is still a great activity. Many people love mountain biking in a more calm and leisurely fashion, not racing to get somewhere as fast as possible, but rather just meandering along to enjoy the sights and sounds, as well as the company of friends and family.

Regardless of what type of biking appeals to you, mountain biking is a fun activity that is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. It is an excellent way to get in shape, to spend your free time, and to enjoy nature with the people you love.

If you are new to mountain biking or are a seasoned professional, finding a new mountain bike can be a bit of a frustrating endeavor. There are so, so many options out there and they all feature buzzwords that many of us just cannot make sense of. This is why we recommend Mongoose Mountain Bikes when it comes to the best brand of mountain bike available in the budget price range.

Mongoose Mountain Bikes is a time honored company that has been providing high-quality bikes and related accessories for decades. The company was founded in a California garage in 1974 and since then has been providing some of the best products for the avid cycler, whether you are an urban or a nature rider. The company is known for building high-end, top-of-the-line, and cutting-edge bikes of all sorts, from BMX bikes, pavement bikes, and, of course, mountain bikes.

When it comes to all the different brands on the market, we trust Mongoose with their 40+ years of experience of providing the best bikes to their customers, always staying up with the times and latest trends or new technologies.

The bikes are always well priced and are among the top in performance, customer satisfaction, and comfort within their price point.

We don't have nearly enough space to review all the different models and available features of Mongoose bikes, but what follows are three brief reviews of some of their most popular models. We review a general purpose mountain bike, a bike designed for women, and one for men. There are a number of other models of mountain bike, as well as an entire line of BMX and pavement appropriate bikes available from Mongoose as well.

Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle

This model of Mongoose bike is an excellent, all-purpose mountain bike that is well suited for both men and women, and experts and novices alike. It is an incredible value at less than $300, making it one of the most affordable high-end bikes you can find.

It is one of the highest rated mountain bikes in its price point.

The Impasse bike is features a 29” wheel base and is constructed from an aluminum suspension frame that provides a nice combination of performance and comfort. It also features a full Element suspension fork, which helps to increase the amount of control of the rider while also providing for a smooth and comfortable ride.

The bike also features a 21-speed Shimano rear dérailleur with SRAM twist shifters, which makes changing gears smooth and simple. Alloy front and rear disc brakes are also featured on this model. It boasts the 29er frame, which provides the most aerodynamic and functional frame profile and is well suited for a wide range of different kinds of terrain.

Mongoose Status 2.2 Women's 26" Wheel Mountain Bike

This option from Mongoose is designed especially for the female frame and combines performance and comfort along with great value. At less than $250, this is a great price for a high-end mountain bike.

The bike features a 26” wheel base and a solidly-built frame made from aluminum and offering a full suspension. The bike features a powerful suspension fork which provides for a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough terrain. The bike also features a 21-speed Shimano rear dérailleur with SRAM twist shifters for smooth gear shifting.

The wheels are made from a light, strong alloy that is durable yet can accommodate even wide mountain tires.

Mongoose Men's Mech Mountain Bike

This option from Mongoose is a budget-friendly mountain bike that is designed specifically for the male frame. A basic, yet solid mountain bike, it is a great value at less than $250.

It features a high-quality aluminum frame, which combines durability with performance beautifully. The bike features a 26" wheel base, which is a good standard size for a variety of different types of riding activities. It features a smooth riding suspension that provides a comfortable ride, regardless of terrain.

Mongoose Mountain Bikes are known for blending performance, stability, and comfort. They provide high end, yet affordable mountain bikes that cover a wide range of styles and performance types. There are gender-oriented bikes that are designed for the female or male frame specifically, as well as models that are suitable for either gender. All the bikes we review here come highly recommended by those who have purchased them and are known for being well suited to beginners and experts alike.

If you are new to mountain biking, learning about them can seem a bit intimidating and possibly a little confusing. There are tons of terms to learn, different types of bikes that have different levels of performance, and so on. While there is a lot to unpack, do not let the variety and choice keep you from pursuing this increasingly popular activity. Mountain biking is a ton of fun and it is a great hobby that can be as relaxing or action-packed as you want it to be. Many people bike for relaxation and leisure, and many also bike for adrenaline and thrills.

Whatever your reason for being interested in mountain biking, it is a great pursuit for people of all ages and all abilities. There are quite a few terms that have to be parsed out though and so, for the purposes of this article, we are going to discuss the relative merits of full suspension fork mountain bikes. We will then briefly review a few different models of full suspension mountain bike to give you a good overview of features, price, and more.

Why a Full Suspension Mountain Bike?

Mountain bikes can actually have a number of different suspension combinations, though the most common is what is called a hardtail suspension, which is just a front suspension. In times past, you could typically get either a front or rear suspension, both of which were comprised of a rigid frame and fork.​

More recently, full suspensions have been introduced. These are also often called dual suspension or full-susser suspensions. What it basically means is that there is shock absorption both on the front and back wheel, as opposed to just one.

What this does is provide for a much smoother ride when on a rough trail than you find with hardtail or rear suspension bikes. They are also often a bit easier to handle, but they do not have the agility or top speed of hardtail bikes. Full suspension bikes, due to the extra hardware they are fitted with, tend to be a bit heavier than their hardtail counterparts.

If you plan on doing a lot of riding on rough or hard terrain, a full suspension will provide a more comfortable ride. If you do a lot of downhill riding, you are likely to find that a full suspension bike is also superior as it is easier to handle and more comfortable to ride a full suspension bike down a steep descent.

Kent KZ2600 Dual Suspension Mountain Bike

Kent is a reputable and quality maker of mountain bikes of many types and sizes. Their KZ2600 Full Suspension Mountain Bike is a well-built, sturdy mountain bike that is perfect for the beginner rider who wants to hit the trails. It is available for about $200, making it an excellent choice for those who want a quality, yet budget-friendly full suspension option.

The bike features a 26” wheel base and full suspension aluminum MTB frame for a smooth and comfortable ride. It also boasts a suspension fork with 65 mm of travel for increased smoothness. It also boasts a Shimano 21-speed shifter with rear tourney dérailleur.

The bike also features front disc brakes and rear linear pull brakes. It also has alloy wheel rims for durability and sharp design.

Diamondback Bicycles Atroz Complete Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Diamondback Bicycles is one of the best-known makers of high-end bikes of all shapes and styles. They feature a number of full suspension mountain bike options, including the cutting edge Atroz Full Suspension Bike. This is a top-of-the-line, well-machined bike that is available for about $800.

The bike is hand-built and made from 4-inch travel 6061 T-6 aluminum alloy with an incredibly strong and durable full suspension. The bike has an optimized single pivot with sealed cartridge bearings, which further add to the comfort and smoothness of the ride.

The bike also boasts a SRAM 9-speed drive train. This gives you tons of range when it comes to your gearing, making this bike a great choice for all terrain. The bike also has RockShox Monarch R rear shock and SR Suntour XCM forks to absorb impacts. The bike also features Tektro Aries disc brakes, which are top of the line breaks known for their superior stopping power.

Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Gravity is an up and coming maker of a range of different performance bikes, including full suspension bikes like their FSX 1.0 Dual Suspension Mountain Bike. It is a high-end bike featuring advanced braking, shifting, and a strong and durable construction, available for less than $400.

The bike is available in five different colors and is also available in 15”, 17”, 19”, and 21” sizes. The bike is made from lightweight, yet strong and durable aluminum frames and features an adjustable front and rear suspension.

The bike also features double wall rims and quick release wheels on the front and rear, as well as front and rear disc brakes. The bike also features Shimano shifters for smooth and easy gear changing.

For those new to mountain biking, all the terminology and choice can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. If you know the basics, you will have a much easier time choosing the type and model of bike that will best work for your needs, body type, and budget. For those who are doing most of their riding on rough terrain or doing a lot of steep, downhill descents, full suspension bikes are what we recommend for the most stable and comfortable ride.

Unlike traditional hardtail bikes, full suspension bikes have shock absorbers on both the front and the back wheels, providing enhanced stability and making the ride far smoother and more comfortable. There are tons of different types of full suspension bikes that cover a range of price points and enhanced features. Whether you choose one of the models we briefly review here or use this guide as a starting point, you are now armed with what you need to make a quality decision as to the best full suspension bike for you.​

For those of you that are into your cycling already, you’ll no doubt know what about the 29er. But, for those of you just starting out, you may be scratching your head at this point. A 29er mountain bike basically refers to a mountain bike that has 29” wheels. This is the largest wheel size available for standard bikes and they are great for being used in a number of situations.

What’s so good about 29ers?

1. Because of their large size, 29er wheels allow for easier riding over tough terrain. They’re also great for climbing, too, as they have improved traction due to the extra tread.
2. Its standard physics that larger wheels roll faster, so picking up speed with these wheels will not be an issue.​

Anything that’s not so good?

1. Because of their large size, 29ers are more difficult to maneuver.
2. And, unless you pay extra to have ultralight models, the larger tires will add weight to the bike, making overall acceleration slower.​

Other than that, they’re pretty good all-around mountain bikes for riders of all abilities. Keep reading to check out some of the top 5 29er mountain bikes available on the market right now:

1. Kent Thruster T-29 Men’s Mountain Bike

Price range: Low

If you want a 29er mountain bike that looks good, feels good, and won’t cost your whole month’s paycheck, look no further. The Kent Thruster T-29 has a lightweight aluminum frame and alloy rims that makes it easy to move around. It also comes with all-terrain tires that grip well in all kinds of weather. Fitted with RS25 Shimano shifters and TZ31 Shimano rear derailleurs, this bike is suitable for both beginner and intermediate cyclists. For effective stopping, the bike is fitted with a dual rim linear pull braking system. It also comes 85% assembled.

Verdict: The bike is relatively easy to put together and I found it to be pretty lightweight for a 29er. For the money you’re paying, the quality is pretty good too. The only downfall is you can’t adjust the handlebar height.

Overall rating: 10/10

2. Diamondback Overdrive 29 Hardtail Mountain Bike

Price range: High

This bike is ideal for those who are serious about cycling. Not for the faint hearted, the Overdrive has a 6061-T6 aluminum alloy frame that’s lightweight yet strong, and will support you while on even the toughest of terrains. The bike is also fitted with Tektro disc brakes to give you maximum braking capabilities. Another fantastic feature about this bike is as soon as you get it out of the box, it’s so nearly ready to go. Simply put on the seat, pedals, and front wheel and away you go.

Verdict: It has a stealth black look that just oozes quality and its sturdiness while riding cannot be faltered. My only gripe is the seat could be a little more comfortable.

Overall rating: 10/10

3. SE Bikes Big Mountain 1.0 Mountain Bike

Price range: High

A brand new model out this year, the Big Mountain gives you everything you need from a reliable mountain bike. It comes equipped with a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain and double-wall rims to help you have a smooth ride regardless of what terrain you encounter. The bike’s lightweight alloy frame also comes fitted with rack and water bottle mounts, ready for your next venture. To give you maximum stopping capabilities to help keep you safe the bike is fitted with Tektro hydraulic brakes, which are some of the best around at the moment.

Verdict: This bike is fairly easy to put together and provides a good, solid ride. However, for a mid-priced model, I do feel the quality could be a little better, particularly when it comes to the tires.

Overall rating: 8/10

4. Vilano Blackjack 3.0 29er Mountain Bike MTB

Price range: Mid

As well as looking the part, this red and black, hand-built hydroformed alloy frame will help keep your ride smooth and bump-free. Its 29” double-walled alloy wheels allow you to glide over even the toughest terrain with no trouble at all. Fitted with Shimano front and rear derailleurs, as well as a Shimano integrated shifter/brake lever, you know you’re getting nothing but quality with this bike. There are 24 speeds in which to help through traffic, up hills, or across muddy paths, and it’s got responsive, mechanical disc brakes to slow you down when you need them most.

Verdict: The Vilano Blackjack is a fantastic example of an all-round decent mountain bike. It’s one of the smoothest rides I’ve had from a 29er in all my days of cycling. It’s lightweight yet stable, made of quality materials, and looks great, too. What more could you want?

Overall rating: 10/10

5. Mongoose Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle 29-Inch

Price range: Mid

Another mid-price mountain bike, the Mongoose Impasse provides you with a stress free, smooth ride on a bike that’s been designed with both comfort and performance in mind. Its Element suspension fork allows greater control while the SRAM twist sifters allow easy changing of the 21 gears. It comes with alloy disc brakes fitted to both the front and rear as well as alloy wheels with a quick release mechanism on the front. All of these features and more will ensure your ride is as comfortable and safe as it can be with this bike.

Verdict: While the bike itself seems pretty durable, I do feel the design leaves a lot to be desired. It is also very heavy and not as easy as some of the others to maneuver, so not sure how suitable it would be for a beginner.

Overall rating: 7/10​

The Schwinn Bicycle Company is one of the most iconic American bicycle manufacturing companies to ever grace the Earth. Founded in Chicago in 1895, it quickly became the leading manufacturer of American bicycles throughout the majority of the 20th century. And that was all thanks to German-born Ignaz Schwinn.

Schwinn was a mechanical engineer so when it came to building bicycles, he was a natural. The company’s produced various different models over the years including the famous Corvette and Sting-Ray models that were launched during the ‘50s and ‘60s. However, one type of Schwinn bicycle that’s remained popular since its release in the ‘70s is the good, old mountain bike.

Mountain bikes provide the rider with a comfortable, safe ride that’s great for almost any terrain. They’re good in rain, sand, and even snow. If you’re on the lookout for a decent bicycle, then Schwinn is one of the best places you could possibly go. Keep reading to find out what the top 5 best Schwinn Mountain Bikes of 2017 are:

1. Schwinn S29 Men’s 29” Wheel Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Price range: Mid

This mountain bike has an aluminum full suspension frame and 29” wheels giving you a much more solid ride. Performance and durability are enhanced with the S29, thanks to its top quality SR Suntour suspension fork and 3-piece crank. There are 21 speeds on this bike to choose from depending on your need. So, whether you need some extra grunt to get you up a tricky hill or a smoother ride to gain speed on your descent, you can be sure you’ll get it with this Schwinn mountain bike. It’s most suitable for riders 5’8” and above and is recommended for those aged 14 and over.

Verdict: I found the S29 to be quite a solid, good-looking mountain bike. However, it does have a few issues. The first is that at 37 lbs it’s quite heavy to maneuver and the second is that it’s not really built for off-road use. But, if you’re looking for a good on-road bike that looks cool and gives you a smooth ride, this is the bike for you.

Overall rating: 9/10

2. Schwinn Men’s High Timber 27.5” Wheel Mountain Bicycle

Price range: Low

If you’re looking for a decent all-around, budget mountain bike, the High Timber is the ride for you. Kitted out with Shimano twist shifters and front and rear alloy pull brakes you won’t be disappointed with the quality of this bike. Its 27.5” wheels are suitable for riding across all kinds of terrain while the Schwinn alloy crank offers optimal gearing for a much smoother journey. Assembly of this mountain bike isn’t particularly hard and will take around 15 minutes all together.

Verdict: For a mountain bike that’s of the lower end of the market price, it’s not too bad. Sure, the quality could be a little better, but for the price you're paying, it’s not too bad. It is fairly sturdy and robust and isn’t going to fall apart in five minutes—it’s just not as well-made as some of the company’s pricier models. It is probably more suited to a beginner at mountain biking opposed to a pro.

Overall rating: 8/10

3. Schwinn Bonafied 29” Wheel Mountain Bike

Price range: High

If you have a few extra dollars to spend, the Schwinn Bonafied is one model to seriously consider. This hardtail mountain bike has 24 speeds to give you even more control throughout your entire ride. Its double wall, high-profile rims are both lightweight and sturdy, providing you maximum durability. With 2.25 inch wide tires, this mountain bike is ideal for use on bumpy terrain. It also looks classy too with its color-matching rims and end plugs.

Verdict: This mountain bike is a very heavy bike, weighing in at 39 lbs altogether. However, it’s one of the best-made durable models out there. As with all Schwinn bikes, quality shines through and can be seen in spades in this outstanding model.

Overall rating: 10/10

4. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike 29” Wheels

Price range: High

Nothing will hold you back as you go hurtling through the rocky terrain with this full suspension mountain bike. The Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike features a dual suspension, aluminum frame that offers durability all around. There is the 21-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifter and it’s fitted with Shimano alloy cranks and rear derailleur, so it oozes quality throughout. It’s got an extremely powerful Schwinn suspension fork in which to absorb some of those bumps from that tough terrain.

Verdict: What I like most about this Schwinn mountain bike is that it stands out in the crowd. It has bright, vibrant colors that look fantastic as you ride along. The frame’s durable, the brakes are good, and you get an overall good ride out of it. The only real thing that lets it down slightly is the price.

Overall rating: 9/10

5. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike

Price range: Mid

For a mid-range mountain bike, the Schwinn Protocol measures up pretty well. The aluminum dual suspension frame is light and easy to move while its 24-speed Shimano EX-Fire trigger shifters allow for smooth shifting out on the trail. It’s also fitted with Promax front disc brakes and a rear alloy linear pull brake in which to keep you safe throughout your ride. This mountain bike looks the part too. With its bright red shine, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go with this beauty.

Verdict: Overall, it’s a pretty solid mountain bike that’s perfect for tackling the toughest of terrain. Assembly can be done in under 30 minutes and it rides really well. My only real issue is that the seat is really uncomfortable.

Overall rating: 8/10​