TOP 15 best mountain bikes: 2024-2025 ranking in terms of price / quality and which budget one to choose

1Mountain bikes are specifically designed for off-road and cross-country riding.

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

How to choose the right mountain bike? What specifications should you pay attention to?

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

It was these models that users named the best in 2024-2025.

Rating of the TOP 15 best mountain bikes 2024-2025 of the year

Place Name Price
TOP 5 best mountain bikes by price / quality for 2024-2025
1 FORWARD Apache 27.5 2.0 Disc (2020) Ask for a price
2 STELS Navigator 770 D 27.5 V010 (2020) Ask for a price
3 FORWARD Apache 27.5 3.0 Disc (2020) Ask for a price
4 Stinger Reload LE 29 (2020) Ask for a price
5 STARK Tactic 27.5FS HD (2020) Ask for a price
TOP 4 budget mountain bikes
1 STELS Navigator 500 MD 26 F010 (2019) Ask for a price
2 Desna 2612 V Ask for a price
3 STELS Navigator 645 MD 26 V010 (2020) Ask for a price
4 STELS Navigator 630 V 26 K010 (2019) Ask for a price
TOP 3 best men's mountain bikes
1 STELS Navigator 620 MD 26 V010 (2018) Ask for a price
2 FORWARD Apache 27.5 1.0 (2020) Ask for a price
3 Eltreco XT 800 (2020) Ask for a price
TOP 3 best women's mountain bikes
1 STELS Miss 6100 D 26 V010 (2019) Ask for a price
2 FORWARD Iris 26 1.0 (2020) Ask for a price
3 FORWARD Iris 26 2.0 Disc (2020) Ask for a price

How to choose a mountain bike?

Since mountain bikes are designed for off-road trips, when choosing a vehicle, be sure to 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 travel. Downhill bikes are used for extreme descents from mountains and hills, while street or dirt bikes are used for jumping on special jumps.
  2. Wheel diameter. If you are buying a bike for a child, you should give preference to a model with 24-inch wheels. Vehicles with 26-inch wheels are considered universal, and models with 29-inch wheels allow you to comfortably overcome obstacles.
  3. frame material. Steel is too heavy a material for a mountain bike, so most modern models are equipped with frames made of aluminum or chromium-molybdenum alloy.

Also, before buying, be sure to check the number of speeds and ease of gear shifting, the reliability of the brake system and equipment.

2

TOP 5 best mountain bikes by price / quality for 2024-2025

Since the choice of mountain bikes on the modern market is truly huge, it will not be difficult to choose a model in which decent performance is combined with an affordable price. In 2024-2025, five models were recognized as the best in this category.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 2.0 Disc (2020)

Relatively inexpensive classic mountain bike model that shows 1excellent performance on asphalt and rough terrain.

The lightweight frame is made of aluminum alloy, and the low weight of the vehicle makes it truly agile and easy to drive. The optimal diameter of the wheels allows not only to develop high speed, but also to successfully overcome obstacles.

The model is presented in several modifications of the frame, so everyone can choose a bike according to their height..

The soft fork provides a light ride, and quality cushioning reduces shaking on uneven road surfaces.

Specifications:

  • frame 15, 19 or 21 inches;
  • 27.5 inch wheels;
  • 21 speed.

pros

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

Minuses

  • not very good location of the front brake cable;
  • under heavy load on the pedals, an extraneous crack is heard.

STELS Navigator 770 D 27.5 V010 (2020)

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

The vehicle is presented in several frame modifications so that everyone can choose a bike according to their height.

The frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, which makes it easy to control and makes it easy to carry the bike in your hands..

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

The wheels have a universal diameter, so the cyclist can easily overcome obstacles or develop a fairly high speed..

The hydraulic disc brake system works instantly and ensures complete road safety.

Specifications:

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

pros

  • comfortable and wide regular platform pedals;
  • fast gear shifting;
  • reliable braking system;
  • light weight due to lightweight aluminum frame;
  • optimum wheel diameter.

Minuses

  • poor build quality wheels;
  • high price.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 3.0 Disc (2020)

A versatile and inexpensive bike model suitable for city walks, and for 2off-road riding.

Lightweight aluminum frame resists corrosion and makes the vehicle truly light and manoeuvrable.

If necessary, the user can easily carry the bike in his hands.

So that the cyclist does not feel discomfort during trips over rough terrain, the manufacturer supplied the model with a spring-elastomer fork and high-quality shock absorption.

The optimal wheel diameter allows you to overcome obstacles on dirt roads or develop high speed when traveling on asphalt.

The double rim of the wheels, like the frame, is made of aluminum alloy, and a sufficient number of speeds allows you to choose the optimal type of ride depending on the type of road surface.

Specifications:

  • frame for 15, 17, 19 or 21 inches;
  • 27.5 inch wheels;
  • 21 speed.

pros

  • reliable hydraulic brake;
  • democratic value;
  • wheels provide good cross-country ability;
  • sufficient choice of speeds;
  • durable aluminum frame.

Minuses

  • not very high-quality regular tires;
  • bad plug - most users immediately replace it.

Stinger Reload LE 29 (2020)

A stylish, bright and affordable bike that was released in 2024-2025, and it 3immediately earned the trust of users due to excellent technical and operational characteristics.

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

The increased cross-country ability is provided by the increased diameter of the wheels, and the aluminum rims make the bike truly light and compact..

Driving safety is ensured by a mechanical disc brake, and a wide choice of speeds allows you to adjust your riding style depending on the type of road surface.

Specifications:

  • 18", 20" or 22" frame;
  • wheels 29 inches;
  • 21 speed.

pros

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

Minuses

  • too narrow saddle;
  • no trunk.

STARK Tactic 27.5FS HD (2020)

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

The device is presented in several frame options so that everyone can choose a bike according to their height.

Carrying the vehicle in your hands is very easy, because its frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy.

The comfort of the ride is increased by a spring-oil fork and modern depreciation.

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

The diameter of the wheels is not the largest, but it provides optimal off-road flotation and allows you to overcome obstacles.

For safe trips, the device has a hydraulic disc brake that works instantly.

Specifications:

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

pros

  • wide comfortable seat;
  • the optimal diameter of the wheels ensures good cross-country ability;
  • successfully overcomes obstacles and bumps on the road;
  • a sufficient number of speeds;
  • modern braking system.

Minuses

  • high price;
  • some users find the number of speeds insufficient.

TOP 4 budget mountain bikes

If the budget for the purchase of a mountain bike is limited, you should look at inexpensive models. They are in the lines of many brands, but at a budget cost they have quite decent technical and operational characteristics.

STELS Navigator 500 MD 26 F010 (2019)

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

The vehicle is presented in several modifications of the frame, so it will not be difficult to choose a model for growth.

Affordable cost due to the fact that the bicycle frame is made of steel. This is an inexpensive, but durable material, but because of this, the mass of the device increases significantly.

For added ride comfort, a soft fork and modern cushioning are provided..

There is also a front and rear brake of a mechanical type, and 21 gears are provided in the device to adjust the riding style.

Specifications:

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

pros

  • confidently behaves on a dirt road and climbs;
  • democratic value;
  • high riding comfort;
  • attractive design;
  • enough gears.

Minuses

  • not very high-quality assembly: the steering wheel constantly turns;
  • Wings and bell are not included.

Desna 2612 V

The budget mountain bike of domestic production has sufficient 2performance characteristics for comfortable off-road trips.

Entry-level soft fork and modern cushioning provide enhanced off-road ride comfort.

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

Compared to other models, the diameter of the wheels is small, but even 26 inches is enough for optimal climbing and small obstacles..

The device also has front and rear brakes and 7 speeds, which allow you to adjust the driving style to the characteristics of the road surface.

Specifications:

  • frame 18 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 7 travel speeds.

pros

  • reliable, high-quality and inexpensive bike;
  • suitable for off-road riding;
  • comfortable and fairly wide seat;
  • a sufficient number of speeds;
  • convenient and fast gear shifting.

Minuses

  • there are no keys for assembly in the kit;
  • supplied without wings.

STELS Navigator 645 MD 26 V010 (2020)

A bright and inexpensive mountain bike is suitable not only for off-road riding, but also 5for comfortable city trips.

To do this, the vehicle provides all the necessary technical characteristics. In particular, the device is equipped with a strong yet lightweight aluminum frame.

There is a soft fork and high-quality cushioning, and wide platform pedals provide optimal foot placement while riding..

The diameter of the wheels is small, and is 26 inches, so the bike will 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 26 inches;
  • 21 speed.

pros

  • reliable braking system;
  • comfortable curved handlebar design;
  • democratic value;
  • a large selection of speeds;
  • removable wheels.

Minuses

  • not suitable for serious off-road;
  • for some users, the stem is too large.

STELS Navigator 630 V 26 K010 (2019)

A mid-range mountain bike with well-thought-out performance 2characteristics.

Thanks to 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.

The frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, so the bike is very easy to carry in your hands.

Additional ride comfort is provided by a spring-elastomer fork and high-quality shock absorption..

For a comfortable fit, a fairly wide and moderately hard seat is provided, and a modern braking system ensures high traffic safety.

Specifications:

  • frame 16 or 20 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 21 movement speed.

pros

  • comfortable curved handlebar design;
  • durable and stable platform pedals;
  • reliable braking system;
  • lightweight aluminum frame;
  • stylish attractive design.

Minuses

  • 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 also be able to use these vehicles, but for some cyclists, shifting gears and braking in such models will seem too harsh.

STELS Navigator 620 MD 26 V010 (2018)

Relatively inexpensive, but high-quality men's mountain bike, which has everything 2necessary characteristics for exciting extreme off-road riding.

At the same time, the technical characteristics of the device are thought out in such a way that the bike can also be used for walking around the city.

The frame is made of aluminum alloy and is presented in several modifications so that everyone can choose the device according to their height.

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

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

Specifications:

  • frame for 14, 17 or 19 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 21 speed.

pros

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

Minuses

  • rear wing slams on the wheel on bumps;
  • not intended for serious off-road use.

FORWARD Apache 27.5 1.0 (2020)

Users who are looking for an inexpensive, but high-quality and fairly passable mountain 3bike, definitely worth a closer look at this model.

It has all the features necessary for full operation.

There are several modifications of the frame, so everyone can choose a model according to their height..

For additional riding comfort, a spring-elastomer fork and a modern shock absorption system are provided.

Larger diameter wheels provide optimal traction on dirt roads and light off-road.

Also, the device provides a reliable braking system and a sufficient choice of speeds to adapt the riding style to the characteristics of the road surface.

Specifications:

  • frame for 15, 17 or 19 inches;
  • 27.5 inch wheels;
  • 21 speed.

pros

  • wide and fairly stable platform pedals;
  • adequate cost;
  • excellent build quality;
  • double rims of increased strength;
  • Comfortable and quite soft seat.

Minuses

  • not all users like the quality of depreciation;
  • sometimes there is a manufacturing defect.

Eltreco XT 800 (2020)

The cost of this men's mountain bike is above average, but it makes up for it 8advanced equipment and thoughtful functionality.

Despite the fact that there is only one frame size, the owner will be able to adapt the device to their height by simply 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 can travel a maximum of 50 km..

But even after the battery is dead, the owner will be able to continue driving 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 6 speeds, but for riding around the city and light off-road, this is quite enough.

Specifications:

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

pros

  • a capacious battery allows you to drive 50 km on a single charge;
  • relatively low cost;
  • there is a trunk;
  • lightweight aluminum frame;
  • enough speed.

Minuses

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

TOP 3 best women's mountain bikes

The main difference between women's mountain bikes and men's is in the beveled shape of the frame. In terms of other characteristics, such vehicles are in no way inferior to bicycles for men and show good cross-country ability on rough terrain.

STELS Miss 6100 D 26 V010 (2019)

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

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

The bike will not cope with serious off-road, as the diameter of its wheels is only 26 inches..

At the same time, this indicator is quite enough for trips on dirt roads, overcoming small climbs and obstacles.

A wide choice of speeds allows you to adjust the style of riding, focusing on the type of road surface, and a reliable front and rear brake guarantees complete safety of riding.

Specifications:

  • frame for 15, 17 or 19 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 21 movement speed.

pros

  • excellent quality brakes;
  • attractive design aimed at girls;
  • good rolling;
  • democratic value;
  • comfortable saddle.

Minuses

  • not very high quality suspension fork;
  • the front fender is rubbing against the wheel.

FORWARD Iris 26 1.0 (2020)

Another inexpensive mountain bike that is sure to please 3lovers of an active lifestyle.

It should be borne in mind that, due to the steel frame, the mass of the bicycle is very impressive, and not every woman will be able to carry the vehicle in her hands.

The rest of the features and capabilities are very worthy: there is a steering wheel lift adjustment, a high-quality suspension fork and a comfortable, fairly soft seat..

The wheels are equipped with double rims, which have increased resistance to wear and damage, and the excellent quality of the brake system guarantees complete safety on the road.

Specifications:

  • frame 17 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 6 travel speeds.

pros

  • high strength steel frame;
  • footrest included;
  • comfortable and fairly wide seat;
  • democratic value;
  • reliable braking system.

Minuses

  • few speeds;
  • there is a slight runout of the front wheel.

FORWARD Iris 26 2.0 Disc (2020)

This mountain bike has been specially designed for women who love long 2bicycle rides.

The frame is made of high strength steel. Also, the vehicle provides high-quality depreciation, which provides high comfort of movement on the road.

There is only one frame height, but to adapt the bike to the height of the owner, it is enough to simply adjust the height of the steering wheel.

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

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

Specifications:

  • frame 17 inches;
  • wheels 26 inches;
  • 18 speeds.

pros

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

Minuses

  • not very high-quality regular tires;
  • not always on sale.

Which firm to choose?

The mountain bike manufacturer also plays an equally important role.

According to an analysis of user reviews, FORWARD, STELS, Stinger, STARK and Eltreco were recognized as the best mountain bike manufacturers in 2024-2025.

The mountain bike rating includes the most successful models of these manufacturers, and detailed descriptions and specifications will help you make the right choice.

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