11 Best Mountain Bikes Under 1000 Dollars (2023)

To get the best mountain bikes under 1000 dollars, it is important to know what to look for. There are several different factors that you will need to consider when making your purchase.

With so many different bikes on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you and your mountain biking hobby. This guide will help make the process easier by outlining some of the best options available.

Here are the best mountain bikes under 1000 Dollars

1. Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2

This mountain bike offers a pretty complete lineup of hardtail mountain bikes with wallet-friendly prices and good feature sets. Sneaking just under our $1,000 cap is the brand’s versatile DRT 1.2.

This bike is a great option for beginner- and intermediate-level riders with stable and grippy 2.4-inch-wide tires, thru-axles for added stiffness, and a solid 120 millimeters of front suspension (20mm more than most options on this list).

Bottomline

The Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2, at over 32 pounds, isn’t as light or fast as some of the other models designed specifically for XC riding (including the Specialized Rockhopper below).

In addition, the 2×9 drivetrain is a bit old-fashioned—many new models have done away with the front derailleur in favor of a lighter and simpler 1X set-up. However, Shimano’s design shifts smoothly and has a wide enough range for hilly terrain.

Overall, it’s not a particularly fast or nimble bike, but it hits all the key points as being the first “real” mountain bike for light trail use and not for steep descents. Plus, DRT comes with REI’s excellent warranty for some extra peace of mind.

2. Cannondale Trail 5

The Cannondale Trail 5 mountain bike comes in at $950 and has been recently modernized with a longer and slacker geometry. Outfitted with a 1 x 10 Microshift drivetrain, trusty hydraulic disc brakes, suspension fork, and sharp looks—internal cable routing keeps things clean than most mountain bikes—and you have a strong all-around machine.

Bottomline

The Cannondale Trail 5 and the Giant Talon are both great bikes, but the Cannondale Trail 5 gets the edge in gear range (a plus for steeper climbs), and availability (Cannondale is sold through REI, while Giant is sold nationwide).

3. Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1

This budget mountain bike is good for gravel paths and light trails because of the 3 x 7 Shimano drivetrain and Suntour front fork.

The components aren’t as great as our top picks, but the bike feels sturdy in general which is a pleasant surprise given the price.

Additionally, features like hydraulic disc brakes and five-size options show that this company considers its customers. For under $600, this good mountain bike is a steal.

Bottomline

The DRT 1.1 is a good mountain bike for a beginner that wants a durable ride from an established brand, however, there are some trade-offs.

For starters, the tires it comes with are not the best quality and won’t grip well in wet or slippery conditions.

Additionally, the Suntour coil fork isn’t very adjustable making it less than ideal for rough terrain.

Finally, this bike is quite heavy due to its cheap components which can make pedaling uphill more difficult it’s not fit as a trail bike.

4. Trek Marlin 5

Not only does the Trek Marlin 5 have a sleek frame and hydroformed tubing, but it’s also easy on the eyes. Mounts for a rear rack come standard on this bike–something that’s not always common among mountain bikers–so it’s perfect for commuting or touring.

Bottomline

With the budget-friendly Marlin 5, you give up speed and comfort when climbing on rocky or rooty terrain. Additionally, its small 5mm hubs are less confidence-inspiring than the other options here (9mm or larger). All told, the Marlin 5 is great for gravel paths and adventurous commutes.

5. Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29

The Rockhopper line of hardtail bikes from Specialized starts at $600 and goes up to over $1,000. In the middle is Comp 29, which costs $1,000.

This bike has features that we expect when we see a Specialized product like high-level build quality, well-executed design, cleanliness, and comfortable geometry.

Its 90 or 100 millimeters of travel (depending on frame size) and fast-rolling 2.3-inch tires are ready for moderate XC trails so you can get where you’re going quickly.

But because it also has large 29-inch wheels and hydraulic brakes installed, this bike is just as good for general riding around too. It’s just one of the best mountain bikes out there.

Bottomline

The Rockhopper Comp is a good bike for those who are going to stick close to smooth trails and rolling hills. However, its 9-millimeter quick-release axles make it less sturdy on tougher terrain.

Additionally, the coil front fork isn’t as adjustable or refined as the air-sprung design found on other bikes. And for most mountain bikes under 1000 the high-end brand of Specialized Rockhopper Comp only has a lightweight aluminum frame–still better than most, however.

In honesty, these cons mostly affect more complicated trails, which is not something any of the bikes on our list will be great for. However, since the Rockhopper has a classic and reliable design, we think it’s a fantastic choice for XC if your local area is not very hilly.

6. Marin Bobcat Trail 4

Marin’s Bobcat Trail bike bucks the trend of most mountain bikes under $1,000. With an aggressive build and geometry more associated with a bike costing two to three times as much, this model is ready for serious off-road action.

The most remarkable quality is its low and slack layout, including a 67-degree head angle that makes it simple to handle on tough descents.

With some WTB Trail tires, reliable hydraulic disc brakes, wide handlebars that offer more control, and a 120-millimeter front suspension fork, you have the recipe for an affordable yet reliable hardtail for an entry-level mountain bike.

Bottomline

The Bobcat Trail’s primary weakness is its climbing ability. A steep seat tube helps some, but overall the slacker geometry is less sporty and comfortable for pedal-heavy stretches, plus the 1 x 9 drivetrain has a limited gear range.

Compared with our top-rated Co-op Cycle’s DRT or Cannondale’s Trail 5 above, the Marin lacks a “granny gear” to help with pedaling up a steep incline (you’ll find yourself needing to occasionally hop off and push). But that won’t hurt beginner riders much as it will be just right for bike paths or cross-country rides.

7. Giant Talon 1

Giant consistently produces quality bikes at very competitive prices, and their Talon 1 is a strong example.

To start, the Talon features a Shimano Deore 1 x 10 drivetrain—something few bikes can accomplish at under $1,000. And finding quality tires on such an affordable bike is a struggle, but the Talon features the versatile Kenda Booster in a wide, 2.4-inch setup.

Bottomline

For those that dabble in more technical terrain, these are functional add-ons that we think are worth it.

However, if you’re like me and use your bike for XC driving daily, then the Talon 1 is a very solid option that’s well-equipped for the price.

8. Diamondback Line 27.5

With a cutting-edge design that’s perfect for tackling steep trails, the Diamondback Line 27.5 is sure to impress.

The frame is made from sturdy aluminum that can take a beating, and the wide 750-millimeter bars help you stay comfortable while climbing and descending. Plus, it comes with a 120-millimeter Suntour fork, hydraulic Shimano brakes, and even a chain guide to keep you from dropping it in rough sections.

If you’re an aspiring aggressive rider on a budget, this bike is definitely for you!

Bottomline

The new Diamondback bike has quick-release hubs instead of the stiff thru-axle that we liked on the old version.

Additionally, the Vee brand tires don’t have as much grip and overall quality as the aggressive WTB rubber on the previous bike. Try it out in your local bike shop.

9. Voodoo Bizango

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly trail bike that performs miles above its price tag, the Voodoo Bizango is perfect for you.

The aluminum frame comes equipped with a Shimano drivetrain and disc brakes, which offer great power and control.

The Bizango rolls over bumps quickly with its large wheels and slack head angle, making for a speedy ride.

The Suntour Raidon front fork–with 120mm of travel–has much to do with how great this bike feels.

Bottomline

Although excellent on dry terrain, the Ardent tires have difficulty with muddy downhills.

The Bizango’s sluggish uphill performance is due to its short chainstays, despite this, it still manages to feel nimble.

A dropper post would be an ideal addition but that’s minor in comparison to its other great qualities.

10. Boardman MHT 8.9

The MHT should be on your list of potential bikes to buy if you’re looking for a quick, trail-hardtail bike that only costs around $1,000.

Its ride quality can compete with and surpass most other similar bikes. It’s an evolved version of Boardman’s previous fast trail 29er model—and it shows in its speed; a lot of which stems from the lighter weight when compared to other comparably priced models out there.

Bottomline

The MHT is perfect for commuting, thanks to its rack mounts, low weight, and tough tires. If you want a bike that’s fast and won’t give you back pain, this is a great option.

11. Calibre Line 29

Line 29 is the newest model from Calibre, and it builds on the success of their previous models: Rake, Line 10, Bossnut, and Sentry.

These earlier models were known for being high-performing but also have great value. Line 29 takes that same formula for success and combines it with modern geometry.

The frame, which is both practical and highly functional, comes with great features like SRAM’s NX 11-speed drivetrain, Guide T brakes, and a 122mm-travel dropper post from KS. It also has a RockShox Recon RL fork with a Motion Control damper.

Bottomline

With its great geometry and spec, this bike allows you to feel confident on techy descents. You can ride it predictably and safely without having to spend a lot of money.

The Line 29’s modified tires make it just as adept at XC riding as it is on descents, and given its price point, it’s a great value.

Final Word

If you’re looking for a great mountain bike that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.

All of the bikes on our list come in at under $1,000, and they offer amazing features and performance.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s something on this list for you.

So what are you waiting for?

Get out there and start riding!