Best mountain bikes of 2020

A bicycle is one of the most convenient means of transportation. By bike, you can cross the city or drive along rural roads, easily overcome the slopes. Among the many varieties of this vehicle, mountain bikes have earned the most popularity.

They are comfortable to use, used both in the city and outside, suitable for professional sports and entertainment. To facilitate model selection, the best mountain bikes of 2020 have been compiled. TOP is compiled on the basis of quality indicators, prices, as well as taking into account the reviews of real buyers.

Selection features

Before you go to buy a mountain bike, you need to understand their main varieties. There are special professional tools for downhill and other disciplines. If you need to purchase a model for use in the sports field, it is better to immediately check the optimal performance with the coach or training organization that works with the athlete. Sports bikes are an order of magnitude higher, but more convenient to operate, equipped with more modern braking systems and improved damping systems. As for the choice of an amateur bike, the following technical characteristics must be considered:

1. The presence of a shock-absorbing fork. If you plan to ride on rough terrain, it is required. There are types of shock absorbers, the most reliable and "damping" is spring-oil, but the cost of bikes equipped with such systems is too high for an ordinary buyer. A good option is the oil-air type of depreciation. The cheapest is spring-elastomeric, bicycles with such a fork can only be bought for amateur riding.
2. Production material and type of frame. Bike frames are universal, for men and women. They are made from steel, composite materials or aluminum. Steel is the strongest, but too heavy. For beginners, it is better to buy models with an aluminum frame made of high-quality alloy, they are much easier.
3. Suspension type. The Hadrtail is equipped with a single suspension fork and is lightweight, such a suspension used in the production of amateur and city bikes. Rigid suspension also has only one fork, but is much heavier due to the use of a rigid frame. For professionals who need constant driving on rough terrain, they produce two-suspension: products with shock absorption forks on both wheels.

There are also the best mountain bike companies to look for when buying. Giant and Forward are the market leaders this year.

Read also: How to choose a mountain bike

The rating below contains both professional and semi-professional and amateur bikes. The detailed description contains all the distinctive features and technical characteristics, on the basis of which you can easily make a choice. Positions are placed in order of increasing prices.

Forward Sporting 1.0

Price: 9000 r.

A product with a universal frame designed for everyday use.Allowed to use during training before professional rides. The bicycle is not suitable for participation in big sports: the low price category does not allow the use of high-performance parts. However, in the city or countryside, the model performs well. The ride is soft thanks to the suspension fork on the front wheel. The correct back position is adjusted by adjusting the height of the handlebar.

The bike comes with a front and rear fender made of high-quality plastic. The brake system is rim. This is not the best option for professionals, but when braking on not too steep slopes, the part works fine. The bike is equipped with 18 types of speeds.

Pros:

• the most affordable price in the TOP;
• a sufficient number of speeds;
• comfortable seat;
• care for the health of the spine.

Minuses:

• the steel frame provides a mass of as much as 16 kg;
• the suspension fork wears out quickly and requires lubrication;
• bicycle brakes may start to squeak when malfunctioning.

Stinger Element D 26 (2017)

Price: 13,000 rubles.

This model is intended for amateurs and those who start their careers as an athlete. The model is perfect for entertaining cross-country driving. The special pattern of the tires ensures reliable grip on any type of surface, including wet soil or asphalt. Can be used even in winter on ice. On the other hand, tires wear out quickly and have to be changed every 1.5-2 years.

The braking system is based on disc action. This allows you to instantly stop the movement, which is very important when participating in competitions. The user can choose between 18 speeds.

Pros:

• frame made of 6061 aluminum alloy, which does not differ in strength from steel;
• light weight;
• disc brakes;
• depreciation with a stroke of up to 5 cm;
• reliable gear shifting system.

Minuses:

• rubber wears out quickly;
• pedals may not be able to withstand heavy loads or impacts on the asphalt.

Forward Apache 2.0 Disc 2016

Price: 15,000 r.

This type of transport is intended for beginner athletes. It allows you to learn the basics without paying attention to setting up the bike and not wasting energy on moving it. Unlike models with a steel frame, this type is equipped with aluminum components, which reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. The fork is also made of aluminum alloy. Disc brakes allow for quick and easy braking without skidding, and the threaded bar mounting system prevents it from twisting while driving and increases the safety of the owner.

A feature of the bike is the presence of 21 speeds at once. The gears are controlled using the release levers on the steering wheel. The model is suitable not only for adults, but also for older teenagers who will appreciate its eye-catching appearance.

Pros:

• low weight of the product;
• reliable disc brakes;
• adjustment of the suspension fork is possible;
• confident and safe driving in the city, on rough terrain.

Minuses:

• a hard bike seat reduces ride comfort;
• short factory fenders do not protect from dirt and moisture, you have to buy some ones yourself.

Read also: TOP 20 best bikes in terms of price / quality ratio

GT Avalanche 3.0 Disc (2011)

Price: 15,000 r.

A versatile vehicle for owners of any gender. It is used mainly in urban conditions, but fans of high-speed driving in nature can not despair: corrugated tires and good suspension do not interfere with movement on other types of roads. Driving on crushed stone, wet soil, concrete roads is characterized by high traction. The owner is maximally protected from drifts and potentially dangerous injuries.

In terms of assembly, the model is made of an aluminum frame with a relatively light weight of 14 kg. The steering structure allows almost effortless control of transport, the hydraulic brakes do not work instantly, but do not lead to skids.In addition to all of the above, the mechanism is equipped with 27 different types of speed modes at once.

Pros:

• famous sports brand;
• durable build;
• suspension tuning;
• a large number of speeds;
• soft shock absorption.

Minuses:

• relatively overpriced;
• uncomfortable seat for the owner.

Stels Navigator 650 MD 27.5 V020 (2017)

Price: 16,000 rubles.

The product is ideal for amateur trips in the city and countryside. It is equipped with disc brakes, making it easy to stop even on slippery road surfaces. Quality tires provide high traction on asphalt or unpaved surfaces. It is not recommended to use the bike in winter, but it is quite safe in other weather conditions. The basic configuration does not include fenders, you will have to buy them. The damping fork is made from a spring-loaded elastomer, and while it's the most inexpensive option, damping works great. It allows you to soften the impact of wheels hitting holes or driving over bumps. The user can adjust the degree of hardness.

The pedals are equipped with raised lugs for ease of use. A narrow seat may need to be replaced if the owner has increased comfort requirements. The assembly is of high quality, buyers note the wear resistance of the parts. An additional plus is an excellent modern design.

Pros:

• adjustable fork;
• disc brakes;
• universal frame;
• reliable Japanese transmission.

Minuses:

• slight discomfort during prolonged driving.

Bicycle for adults TREK 820 (2018)

Price: 24,000 rubles.

This is a versatile model that will work well for both adults and teenagers over 14 years old. Comfortable pedals and a hydraulically safe braking system prevent falls when stopping. Reliable gear shifting systems allow 21 travel speeds. The high quality suspension fork can be repositioned by 7.5cm for the smoothest ride, even over large bumps. The steering wheel is slightly curved and angled in relation to the seat so that the owner does not overextend his back and always maintains the correct spine position.

Despite the fact that the frame is made of steel and the tires are additionally reinforced with aluminum rims, the product weighs a little and is suitable for owners with poorly developed muscles.

Pros:

• attractive design;
• good shock absorption;
• light weight;
• soft braking, fast response of the system;
• back health care.

Minuses:

• non-disc brakes;
• minimum equipment (no fenders or reflective elements).

Giant Rincon LTD 26

Price: 25,000 rubles.

The bike, despite its high price, is intended for beginners or amateurs. It doesn't have a professional suspension fork or instant disc brakes. The high price is due to the excellent build quality, durability of parts and the absence of the need for their maintenance. Even without lubrication and testing, the attachment performs without misfires.

The frame is lightweight, made of aluminum alloy with high strength indicators. Due to its low weight, the bike can be purchased for walking around the city or for a teenager. It will also suit women. The universal frame allows the bike to be used by men too. The attractive design complements the build quality and underlines the premium brand. The wheels are equipped with additional aluminum support, so they are practically not afraid of mechanical deformations.

It is recommended to purchase this product for those who are ready to pay a large sum for the workmanship and long service life. If in the first place is not the reliability of the bike, but economy or its performance, it is better to pay attention to one of the other models presented in the rating.

Pros:

• high-quality equipment;
• long service life;
• reliable tires and wheels;
• comfortable seat;
• attractive design;
• low construction weight.

Minuses:

• lack of additional options;
• overcharge.

Giant ATX 2 (2017)

Price: 27 800 rub.

This product was put in the second position by the users. The popularity of the relatively new model is due to the high build quality, the strength of the parts, as well as the durability of the tires. The bike performs well on asphalt, gravel, sand, dry and wet ground. It is great for trail riding as the suspension fork absorbs even the most extreme vibrations and vibrations. The wide handlebar allows you to comfortably place your hands and reduce the load on them. The wheel diameter, increased to 27.5 inches, provides additional ride comfort, shock absorption and stability on the road.

The laconic dark design will appeal to both teenagers and adults. The disadvantages include an uncomfortable, hard seat. Most buyers have chosen to replace it before using it. But the rest of the parts serve perfectly: the chains do not jump off, the tires do not lend themselves to punctures, the steering wheel does not beveled due to the threaded connection.

Pros:

• high depreciation rates;
• high-quality assembly;
• lightweight design;
• wide steering wheel;
• the braking system is based on discs;
• high maneuverability;
• 21 speed modes.

Minuses:

• uncomfortable saddle;
• high price.

Merida Crossway 20-MD (2017)

Price: 30,000 rubles.

The highest quality product in 2020, estimated by over 100 buyers. The model is included in the highest price category for a reason. It is equipped with disc brakes, high-quality suspension fork, raised pedals and high-quality 24-speed shifting system. The frame is made of lightweight aluminum of a particularly strong alloy, which is not inferior to steel in terms of hardness. Cushioning allows you to easily overcome obstacles with height differences up to 10 cm without perceptible vibration. For the same reason, the bike can be used for minimal jumping tricks, however, if professional jumping is planned, you will have to purchase a more specialized model.

The discreet light design emphasizes the high cost and quality of the model. The coating is easily cleaned of dust and dirt, so you shouldn't worry about its color. The 29-inch tires are excellent for urban roads as well as elevation changes outside of large towns. Compared to the standard tire diameter is 2.5 inches larger. The tires are puncture-proof, last a long time and practically do not wear out. The disadvantages include the practically absent pattern of non-factory rubber: you cannot ride on wet asphalt on such a bike.

Pros:

• lightweight, but strong and rigid frame;
• a plug with a high absorption percentage;
• high-quality assembly;
• disc brakes;
• 24 speed modes.

Minuses:

• high price:
• not the most convenient tires for Russian operating conditions.

Silverback Stride 15 (2016)

Price: 35,000 rubles.

The device is one of the most high-tech. Not surprising given its cost. Interesting innovations include a connector for charging a mobile device or tablet while driving. The bike generates electricity while driving, and the owner can use it to extend the battery life. This is the only product in the TOP, which is equipped with a spring-oil suspension fork - the best possible. It provides the smoothest running and damping vibrations with height differences up to 10 cm.

There are 24 speeds, which can be switched with reliable manual control. The brake system is disc, the risk of skidding when braking on bends is zero. The user can stop even while descending a steep incline, of course without pressing the front brake to avoid falling. The steel frame provides additional structural strength and ride comfort. However, it also leads to an increase in the mass of the model, which is why novice amateurs are unlikely to want to purchase a vehicle. It is better to buy it on the basis of constant semi-professional driving.There are several modifications of the base model with modified brake discs that provide even better performance in emergency stops.

Pros:

• maximum depreciation rates;
• durable tires;
• 24 speeds;
• adjustment of parameters, including features of shock absorption and height of the seat and steering wheel, for the owner;
• disc brakes;
• additional options for recharging devices.

Minuses:

• high price;
• heavy construction weight;
• stiff and narrow saddle.

Best bikes 2019

Which mountain bike is better, one cannot say for sure. The models presented in the rating are designed for various operating conditions and budgetary possibilities. Therefore, it is advisable to single out the winners in several categories at once:

1. Best Budget Bike - Forward Sporting 1.0. Perfect for walking around the city. A starting option for a teenager or adult who has not been involved in cycling before.
2. The most optimal bike in terms of build quality is the Merida Crossway 20-MD (2017). According to customer reviews, it even took first place in the overall rating, but for some consumers it may seem too expensive.
3. The best offer in terms of price and quality is Stels Navigator 650 MD 27.5 V020 (2017). A model from a well-known brand will not let you down either on the cycle track or in rural conditions. The price of 16,000 rubles allows you to practically not think about the budget when buying.

Of course, when choosing, you need to focus not only on the technical indicators of the model, but also on your own budget. The TOP contains decent models of a low price category, for example, a Forward bike for 9,000 rubles. It should be noted that many models can be purchased at a lower price than what is indicated in the description. Some online stores periodically hold promotions, due to which you can save up to 20% of the original cost of the product. The best offers can be found on aggregator sites, on Yandex.Market and similar services.

Also, when choosing, it is recommended to focus on the features of the use of transport and the climatic conditions of the region. If you plan to use the bike for year-round riding, and the owner does not live in the southern regions of Russia, you will need a model with a deep tire pattern. In the southern lane, relief tires are needed if precipitation occurs frequently. They help to cope with poor handling on wet asphalt and especially on wet clay soil, which was washed away by rain.

Finally, shop consultants are always ready to assist in choosing. If you do not like personal communication, you can contact the online store for selection, where employees transfer information to the client by phone.