How dangerous is mountain biking?

Mountain biking is generally safe. But, unlike riding on an indoor cycling bike , outdoor cycling does present some risks. Research suggests that the overall injury rate for mountain biking is about 16.8 injuries per 1,000 hours of riding. And other research has highlighted that most mountain biking injuries are the result of faulty jump attempts, bike tricks, and falls on uneven terrain. When mountain biking, you’ll want to be sure to wear a proper helmet, as this can help you cut down on your risk of serious injury. You’ll also want to use a bike that you feel confident and comfortable riding, as this can put you in greater control of your rides.

Is mountain biking harder than road biking?

Mountain biking presents different challenges than road biking. When mountain biking, you can expect to encounter steep inclines, rugged terrain, and quick turns. When road biking, you may have to navigate stop-and-go traffic, slick city streets, and ample obstacles (like cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists). So it’s not fair to call one “harder” or “easier” than the other—because the truth is, they’re both challenging in different ways.

Is mountain biking hard to learn?

With its steep inclines and rugged trails, mountain biking can definitely be challenging. But don’t let that scare you off. If you’re a first-timer, look for mountain biking paths that are relatively flat, straight, and smooth. Then, work your way up to tougher trails. This will help you get acquainted with the feel of your mountain bike, helping you understand how to ride it before forcing you to tackle any real challenges.

The 10 Best Mountain Bikes of 2023

Cycling is an excellent way to get some exercise and if your go-to adventures involve dirt paths and off-road trails, it’s worth investing in a mountain bike that can take you on all your favorite routes.

Mountain bikes are specifically designed to withstand rugged outdoor trails. Their large, textured tires are equipped to handle a range of different terrain, and their sturdy frames will keep you feeling stable and supported as you climb hills and zip down narrow dirt paths.

When looking for a mountain bike make sure you choose one that is fitted properly for your height and weight. Riding a bike that's not sized or adjusted properly can be difficult and dangerous. We evaluated mountain bikes for this list based on affordability, durability, frame weight, sturdiness, responsiveness, and available speeds.

Here are the best mountain bikes on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall for Women:

Schwinn Women's Standpoint 27.5” Mountain Bike at Dick's

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Best Overall for Men:

GT Men's Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike at Dick's

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Best Budget for Men:

Hyper Bicycles Shocker 26” Men's Bike at Amazon

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Best Budget for Women:

Roadmaster Granite Peak Ladies Mountain Bike at Walmart

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Best Splurge:

Co-Op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike at REI

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Best Lightweight:

Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike at Amazon

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Best Hardtail:

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike at REI

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Best Fat Tire:

Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike at Amazon

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Best Electric:

ANCHEER Electric 26” Mountain Bike at Amazon

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Best Foldable:

Eurobike 26-Inch Folding Mountain Bike at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.7

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Lightweight—features an aluminum frame
Easy to ride
Versatile—features 20-speed twist shifters for varied terrain

Cons

Relatively expensive

The Schwinn Women's Standpoint Mountain Bike is a classic mountain bike from a well-known brand and our best overall selection. The bike’s aluminum frame offers a lightweight ride, and its steel suspension fork will help to smooth out some of the bumps you encounter on your rides.

The bike’s 20-speed twist shifters will allow you to nimbly navigate a range of different trails, and its all-terrain tires promise plenty of traction, no matter where you’re cycling. Since the bike comes in three different frame sizes, it should be easy to find an option that works for you. And remember, you can always adjust the seat post and handlebars to further customize your fit.

Price at time of publication: $500

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 4 feet, 11 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 305 pounds | Bike Weight: 36 pounds}

Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

Pros

Lightweight—features an aluminum frame
Easy to ride
Versatile—easily adjusts to varied elevations

Cons

Relatively expensive

The GT Men's Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike is the perfect companion for off-road riding. The bike boasts an aluminum frame that feels lightweight but durable, and its built-in suspension fork should keep your rides feeling stable. The bike’s 21-speed drivetrain will help you efficiently adjust to different elevation levels, and its disc brakes promise plenty of stopping power, whether you find yourself on a rocky trail or a dirt path.

Since the bike comes in five different sizes and six different colors, it shouldn’t be hard to find an option that works for you. Snag your favorite, adjust the handlebars, and get ready to ride.

Price at time of publication: $800

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 4 feet, 11 inches to 6 feet, 8 inches | Weight Capacity: 305 pounds | Bike Weight: 32 pounds}

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

Easy to ride
Versatile—features 18-speed twist shifters for varied terrain
Budget-friendly

Cons

Height capacity is relatively limited

The Hyper Bicycles Shocker Men's Mountain Bike promises a comfortable ride, whether you’re navigating an off-road trail or taking a leisurely ride around the neighborhood. The bike’s strong steel frame feels sturdy and durable, and its suspension fork promises to smooth out some of the bumps in your ride.

Since the bike’s 18-speed twist shifters are designed with beginners in mind, they should help you nimbly and easily adjust to different kinds of terrain. And its textured tires should give you all the traction—and confidence—you need to explore new paths and trails.

Price at time of publication: $148

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 2 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: 32 pounds}

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

Sturdy—features a steel frame
Easy to ride
Versatile—features 18-speed twist shifters for varied terrain
Budget-friendly

Cons

Steel frame may feel a little heavy

The Roadmaster Granite Peak Women's Mountain Bike offers a budget-friendly way into the mountain biking space. And since the bike fares just as well on neighborhood streets as it does on off-road trails, it’s a great go-anywhere pick—especially if you're used to working out on exercise bikes and new to outdoor riding.

The bike’s steel frame feels sturdy and stable, and its textured tires offer plenty of traction—keeping you comfortable, no matter where you’re cycling. The bike comes equipped with 18-speed twist shifters, which you can use to navigate different trails and paths. And if you ever need to come to a stop, rest assured knowing the bike’s linear pull brakes will help do so crisply and efficiently.

Price at time of publication: $98

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 5 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Bike Weight: 38 pounds}

REI

Pros

Quick, responsive steering
Can hold up to 300 pounds
Lightweight, aluminum frame

Cons

Expensive
Handlebars may be too wide

If you're looking to take your mountain biking to the next level, the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 Bike will help you get there. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame and suspension fork, it's easy to transport and it glides smoothly on any terrain.

Tektro hydraulic disc brakes offer precise stopping power to keep you in control, and the 26-inch wheels are crafted to help you quickly maneuver around any obstacles. With 21 gears and a 300-pound weight limit, the bike is versatile and great for any style of rider.

Price at time of publication: $599

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: Not listed | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Bike Weight: 31 pounds}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Customizable—chose from a lightweight aluminium frame or a sturdy steel option
Easy to ride
Versatile—features 18-speed twist shifters for varied terrain

Cons

Some options cost much more than others

The Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike will make a versatile addition to your off-road adventures. The bike is available in two different frames—a sturdy steel option and a lightweight aluminum one—so your ride can get as stable or nimble as you want it to be.

No matter which option you choose, though, you can rest assured knowing you’re getting a solid bike. The bike’s 21-speed twist shifters make it easy to navigate different kinds of terrain, its mechanical disc brakes promise plenty of stopping power, and its high-traction tires will help you comfortably and confidently explore new paths and trails.

Price at time of publication: $530

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 3 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: 33 pounds}

Courtesy of Rei

Pros

Lightweight—features an aluminum frame
Easy to ride
Versatile—features 21 gears for varied terrain

Cons

Relatively expensive

The Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike is a hardtail mountain bike worth taking on all your favorite trails. The bike’s aluminum frame should feel lightweight and nimble. And its front suspension fork should smooth out the bumps in your ride, keeping you in control as you cycle.

Switch between the bike’s 21 gears as you explore new terrain, and rest assured knowing the bike’s hydraulic disc brakes will be there to offer reliable stopping power any time you need it. Since the bike comes in five different frame sizes, you can easily find an option that meets your needs. And you can adjust the seat post to get an even more precise fit.

Price at time of publication: $599

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet to 6 feet, 3 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Bike Weight: 32 pounds}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Easy to ride
Suitable for varied terrain—sand, dirt, snow and more.

Cons

Not intended for road biking

If you’re looking for a fat tire bike, the Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Mountain Bike is a solid choice. The bike boasts mountain tires that are a whopping 4 inches wide. And since the tires are textured for traction, they’re sure to smoothly roll over just about anything in their path—including sand, dirt, snow, and more.

The bike’s sturdy steel frame promises a stable ride, and its seven-speed gear shifters will help you navigate a range of terrain. Take the bike out on different trails and use it during any time of the year. its mechanical disc brakes promise to help you come to crisp stops whenever you need to and to keep your speed under control as you ride.

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 3 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Bike Weight: 37.5 pounds}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Fast—can reach speeds up to 20 MPH
Easy to ride
Versatile—features 21-speed gear shifters for varied terrain

Cons

Heavy
Relatively expensive
Needs to be recharged between uses

The ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike is a classic electric mountain bike that can pick up some serious speed. The bike’s aluminum frame promises to be strong but lightweight, and its high-strength suspension fork should keep your rides feeling smooth.

The bike’s 21-speed gear shifters will help you nimbly navigate different paths and trails. And any time you want to pick up speed, you can switch the bike into e-bike or assisted bicycle mode. The bike can reach speeds of 20 miles per hour, and a full charge will get you through 22 to 40 miles of riding.

Since the bike is designed to be versatile, you can take it on an off-road adventure, on your daily commute, or both.

Price at time of publication: $590

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 1 inch to 6 feet, 3 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Bike Weight: 52 pounds}

Amazon

Pros

Compact and foldable
21 speeds
Double disc brake system

Cons

Heavier frame
Narrow height range

By many definitions, the Eurobike Folding Mountian Bike is a classic mountain bike. With a sturdy steel frame and double disc brakes, it's designed for durability and reliable riding. The 21-speed gear shifters are great for navigating new trails, and its high-traction, 26-inch tires offer a comfortable ride.

What sets this bike apart from the rest is that it can be folded—making it easy to carry and even easier to store. The company also offers a 30-day return policy to help you feel comfortable about your purchase.

Price at time of publication: $309

^{Key Specs:
Height Capacity: 5 feet, 5 inches to 5 feet, 9 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Bike Weight: 38 pounds}

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a classic mountain bike worth taking on all your favorite trails, consider the Schwinn Women's Standpoint Mountain Bike (view on Walmart) for women or the GT Men's Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike (view on Dick’s Sporting Goods) for men. Both bikes are lightweight, versatile, and easy to ride. And since they’re available in multiple frame sizes, you can easily find an option that works for you.

What to Look for in a Mountain Bike

Height Capacity

A great bike isn’t worth very much if you don’t feel comfortable riding it. So start by ensuring the bike you’re eyeing is the right size for you. Look at the bike’s height chart to see which frame size you should buy, and make sure the bike is actually available in that frame size. Once you get the bike, be sure to try it out. You should feel comfortable and in control while riding. And if you don’t, you might need a different size.

Weight Capacity

Some bikes are able to support more weight than others. So be sure the bike you’re looking at is sturdy enough to support you—and any cargo you might be carrying.

Weight

Mountain bikes tend to be heavier than road bikes—after all, they need to be sturdy enough to withstand rugged terrain. But some mountain bikes are heavier than others. If you’d prefer a nimble ride, look for a more lightweight option (about 35 pounds or less). And if you’d prefer something stronger and more sturdy, opt for a heavier frame, instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How dangerous is mountain biking?

Mountain biking is generally safe. But, unlike riding on an indoor cycling bike, outdoor cycling does present some risks. Research suggests that the overall injury rate for mountain biking is about 16.8 injuries per 1,000 hours of riding. And other research has highlighted that most mountain biking injuries are the result of faulty jump attempts, bike tricks, and falls on uneven terrain.
When mountain biking, you’ll want to be sure to wear a proper helmet, as this can help you cut down on your risk of serious injury. You’ll also want to use a bike that you feel confident and comfortable riding, as this can put you in greater control of your rides.
Is mountain biking harder than road biking?

Mountain biking presents different challenges than road biking. When mountain biking, you can expect to encounter steep inclines, rugged terrain, and quick turns. When road biking, you may have to navigate stop-and-go traffic, slick city streets, and ample obstacles (like cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists). So it’s not fair to call one “harder” or “easier” than the other—because the truth is, they’re both challenging in different ways.
Is mountain biking hard to learn?

With its steep inclines and rugged trails, mountain biking can definitely be challenging. But don’t let that scare you off. If you’re a first-timer, look for mountain biking paths that are relatively flat, straight, and smooth. Then, work your way up to tougher trails. This will help you get acquainted with the feel of your mountain bike, helping you understand how to ride it before forcing you to tackle any real challenges.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.