5 good full suspension mountain bikes for less than $1000
Choosing the best full-suspension mountain bike for your next adventure riding or any trail riding can be a little challenging, especially when it comes to reconciling your budget and your specifications.
In this article, you’ll discover 5 top full-suspension mountain bikes under $1000 that you can purchase.
The bikes under review come with many fascinating features that would make your riding fun whether you’re a beginner or a current hardtail bike user who simply needs an upgrade.
The top full suspension mountain bikes you can get for less than $1000 at glance:
Before selecting a mountain bike under $ 1000, it’s important to set certain parameters to help you make the best choice.
These parameters will help you to understand what to look out for in a mountain bike before investing your hard-earned money.
Important Factors To Consider When Selecting A Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Riding Terrain
When choosing a full-suspension mountain bike, the first and ultimate factor to consider is the terrain you’re going to ride.
Do you plan on riding on a single-track or a dual-track? Most times, you may find either cross-country, smooth trails, or rolling trails.
Some other time, you may have to go for rock cruising or down hilling. Knowing the terrain you’re riding will help decide on the best mountain bike that’s good for you.
Budget
Sometimes, your budget can mean the difference between whether you’re going to get a full-suspension mountain bike or settle for a hardtail.
If you are wondering what the difference is between the two types of bikes, here’s a precise disparity between them:
A hardtail is a bike that has a single suspension in the front. A full-suspension bike, on the other hand, has a suspension in the front and another one in the rear.
A full-suspension bike is the same as a dual-suspension bike.
Typically, hardtail bikes come with limited features and are cheaper. They also require very little maintenance.
They are good for newbies who are still learning basic riding skills like body blow or line choice. Hardtail bikes offer very few benefits compared with dual suspension bikes.
Riding a full-suspension bike is much more exciting.
High-end dual-suspension bikes cost around $2,000. However, you can get a mountain bike under 1000 that comes in handy with some amazing features.
You might just have to compromise a few components. You’ll soon discover a range of top full-suspension mountain bikes you can select from.
Wheel Size
Full suspension Mountain bikes come in different wheel sizes. There are bikes with 26-inch wheels (a single option).
This was especially in vogue in the late 1990s. You can also choose the one with 26 and 29 inches options. In the past few years, other options like 27.5-inch wheels have become commonplace on the market.
Meanwhile, you can still get a 26-inch wheel dual suspension mountain bike with a fat tire.
Your riding terrain is a key factor when selecting the ideal wheel size for your mountain bike. In addition, your height and weight should be considered.
For example, a 29-inch wheel is suitable for tall people while short people would find the 26 or 27-inch wheel a better fit.
Tire size
Another important factor you should consider when selecting a mountain bike is the scale of the tire. The width of your tire determines to a large extent the level of performance of your bike.
Wide tires measuring 2.1-2.4 inches are known to give bikes firmer stability than the ones of around 1.8-2.2 inches. Meanwhile, each of these has its benefits and drawbacks.
For example, a wide tire provides better grip and traction. And it’s good for rough terrains. On the other hand, the wider the tire the lesser the speed.
The thinner tire is better for mud clearing and it offers good speed. But it doesn’t offer as much stability.
You can also find a plus-size wheel that uses a 3-inch tube. These tires are ideal for soft surfaces. It comes with balancing that can spike the confidence level of a beginner.
Drivetrain length
Speed is one crucial requirement most riders want their bike to meet. The part of your bike that determines the speed and hard work is your drivetrain length.
The drivetrain is the collective name of the chain, crankset, cassette, and derailleur.
Drivetrains come in different lengths. Most high and middle-range mountain bikes come with 1X drivetrains. There are 1 X11 or 1 X 12 drivetrains.
The number refers to the number of gears you have. For example, a 1 X 11 drivetrain means 1 gear in the front and 11 in the back (cassette). There are also 2X drivetrains too.
If you’re just starting out as a rider, you should stick with a 1X drivetrain because of its simplicity. This implies that you only have a rear derailleur, and you can free up space on your handlebars.
You can shift gears with one hand, leaving the other free to drop your post, break or just enjoy your energy bar. One gear allows you to focus on your ride.
You don’t have to constantly adjust gears. It’s also less likely that your chain will drop off when riding since it’s fixed to one chain ring.
Meanwhile, a 2X drivetrain should be your pick if what you’re after is better performance on climbs. The main advantage of a 2X is the wide gear range it offers and a smoother transition between gears.
It lets you enjoy steep ascents. It also gives you more confidence to explore and tackle unknown terrains.
Suitable Seatpost
Seatposts are often overlooked, yet are a critical part of your bike. They determine how comfortable you’d be while riding your mountain bike. Seatposts come in different types and sizes.
They include suspension Seatposts, elastomer Seatposts, straight and setback Seatpost, and so on.
You need a Seatpost with more deflection. Deflection is the total movement that a Seatpost will make after an impact.
A Seatpost with more deflection reduces the fatigue on your body as it protects you from harder jolts like unexpected potholes or dirt road corrugations.
It also allows you to pedal through bumps on rougher terrains.
A good example of a Seatpost with better deflection is the dropper seat. It’s rare to find a lower-end bike that comes with a dropper seat.
You however find it available in most middle and high-end mountain bikes. The dropper seat allows the dropping of the saddle.
This offers you a high level of comfort and flexibility when riding on rough terrains.
The frame component of your mountain bike
Selecting a mountain bike with the right frame material type is very crucial. It determines the weight and usability of your MTB.
Most of the products for beginners or young riders are made of aluminum.
Bikes with aluminum frames are light and more comfortable to ride.
Some mountain bikes can have a combination of carbon and aluminum. There are also bikes with lower components such as alloy.
This is usually cheaper than bikes with better frame materials such as aluminum and carbon.
Bikes with carbon frames are lighter than those with aluminum, especially folding ones.
Older carbon bikes had a reputation for being fragile but the modern mountain bikes with carbon are much stronger and more durable.
Review of 5 Best Full Suspension Mountain Bike Under $1000
The following full-suspension mountain bikes offer you great value for your money:
1. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike
Key features:
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- 4 speed Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters and front and rear Shimano derailleurs
- Extra wide double wall alloy rims
- Durable Schwinn alloy cranks provide steady gearing
Schwinn is a leader in the bike manufacturing industry. The company has manufactured many top-notch products and this particular model is no exception.
Schwinn Traxion Full Dual Suspension mountain bike comes with many amazing features that give you an incredibly amazing riding experience.
The bike is designed with a suspension fork which enables you to absorb bumps, and thus offers you comfort while riding.
Its dual suspension aluminum frame makes it durable and lightweight. The bike is suitable for any type of terrain, especially rough terrains as it absorbs shock.
Another lovely feature of the bike is its powerful mechanical disc brakes. The mechanical disc brake gives you great stopping power at any point on the trail.
This feature offers you maximum security and protection while you’re riding.
Another fascinating feature in Schwinn Traxion is wide double-wall alloy rims. These rims are attractive, lightweight, and durable.
They offer you a balanced, smooth, and reliable ride on any terrain. They come in hand-in-hand with 29-inch wheels and knobby tires.
The bike comes with strong alloy cranks and reliable gearing. The cranks set isn’t only durable but also stylish. It has a 24-speed gearing option.
It also comes with Shimano EZ shifters and Shimano derailleurs that allow you to change the speed levels and gears for a comfortable trip.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- It is highly durable
- It has a comfortable seat post
- Can serve dual purposes: as a mountain bike or a city bike
- It comes with a suspension fork
- Has 24-speed Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters and front and rear Shimano derailleurs make gear changes easy and smooth
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with an assembly instruction
- Not suitable for shorter people
2. Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Key Features:
· Suitable for any road trails or terrains
· It comes with beach cruiser pedals for a comfortable ride
· Adjustable threadless headset for riders of different heights
· 7-speed Shimano drivetrain
If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike that allows you to ride comfortably on any terrain with absolute comfort, then you might find the Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire mountain bike just appropriate.
The bike comes with lots of amazing features that guarantee a riding experience far greater than its cost. It is primarily created for men with a heavyweight.
One distinct feature that’ll immediately draw your attention to this bike is its strong fat tires. With these tires, you don’t have to worry when riding on muddy or rocky surfaces.
They also fare well when riding in snowy, dirty, or mountainous conditions. The tires are 4” thick. Their size affords you more stability and balance when cruising around.
This bike comes with a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. With that, you have much control over the gear. This feature allows you to ride up and down the hill as you have multiple gear options to select from.
The frame is designed with steel. This doesn’t only make it aesthetically pleasing but also strong, durable, and comfortable.
Pros:
- Quite easy to assemble
- Affordable
- The dual disc brake provides excellent stopping power
- It has a strong and durable frame that offers stability and comfort.
- It’s ideal for different terrains, thanks to its fat tires
Cons:
- The bike can be too heavy for some users. (The bike is made for large users who are 5’6” to 6’ in height.)
- The bike comes in only one size. Not a good option for taller people.
3. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Key Features:
· 26 inch wheels/17 inch frame
· 21 speed
· Durable steel frame
· 26″ X 1. 95″ Knobby tires
Another top-quality bike that may pique your interest is Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike.
This bike is featured on this list because it’s got lots of fascinating and appealing features that combine to give you a pleasant experience while riding either off-road or on city streets.
Here’s a quick rundown of the features and benefits Huffy mountain bike has got for you:
The bike comes with a durable steel frame. It combines this with a top-notch suspension fork, alloy wheels, aluminum hardtail frame, and dips which provide you with a hassle-free ride.
It’s ideal for riders from ages 13 upward. This is one of the best entry-level bikes that you can get at a very reasonable price.
This bike is a good fit for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re invited for a race with friends or embark on a lone uphill expedition, you can always rely on your Huffy mountain bike.
The indexed Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur coupled with the micro shift twist shifter delivers 21 speeds that you can easily apply according to your need.
You get a smoother-feeling ride when you’re climbing uphill or riding downhill.
Pros:
- Ideal for different terrains.
- It’s easy to assemble.
- It comes with a quality 26-inch 21-speed.
- Good for outdoor adventures.
Cons:
- You may have to rework the brake as it’s not very sturdy.
4. Mongoose R2780 Impasse Dual Full Suspension Bicycle
Key features:
· Aluminum MTB frame with Hydro formed tubing
· A powerful front suspension fork is strong and reliable
· 21 speeds with a Shimano rear derailleur
· Front and rear brakes
· Light, durable alloy rims and 26×2.125 inch
· Riser handlebar with colored end plugs
Mongoose is a popular brand known for passion, aesthetics, and adventure. This particular model comes with many amazing features that will give an awesome riding experience.
The Mongoose R2780 Impasse is one of the top dual-suspension bikes under $ 1000. It has nice features such as an SRAM shifter, Shimano gearing, front and rear disc brake, a full-suspension frame, and so on.
Its light frame enhances speed and overall performance.
Mongoose R2780 Impasse is an Aluminum MTB frame with hydro-formed tubing. And a powerful front suspension fork. The fork keeps you stable, especially on rough trails.
The fork is able to absorb shock which provides you with a better riding experience.
If you’re a speed freak, then you’re going to find this bike super enjoyable. The bike comes with 21 speeds. In addition, the Shimano rear derailleur with SRAM shifter helps you change the gear while riding.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- The Front and rear brakes quick stop out on the trail
- The bike offers a great ride quality
- Comfortable and easily adjustable seat
- Light and durable alloy rims with tires suitable for any terrain
- It’s ideal for both men and women
Cons:
- The bike’s instruction manual is generic. It’s not narrowed to this specific bike.
- Bolts may be loose after a short time, prompting regular check-ups.
5. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Key Features:
· 7-speed Shimano twist shifters
· Durable Schwinn alloy crank
· Lightweight alloy rims for the wheels
· Schwinn steel mountain-style frame
This is another great mountain bike you can trust to give you a comfortable ride, whether out on the road or cycling through trails. It’s ideal for different terrains.
And it’s come with many fantastic features that offer you convenience and stability when blasting your path through mountainous terrains. This bike is ideal for any biking enthusiast, especially if you’re a beginner.
So, what are the notable features and benefits of the Schwinn High Timber mountain bike?
The sturdy frame of this bike is one feature that you will find appealing. It’s made from alloy steel which gives it durability and stability. This quality makes the bike strong and heavy.
The bike comes in different colors such as black, blue, grey, silver, and so on.
If you love riding up and downhill, then you’re going to enjoy the bike’s quality gear system. It’s a 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur.
It also comes with SRAM grip shifters which enable you to easily change gear in any situation.
The bike has also got great tire options. The tires are strong and suitable for riders of different sizes. Reasonable comfort is guaranteed with the bike’s suspension.
It allows you to go over bumps and rough terrains without much hassle.
Size is an important specification you want to consider when buying a bike. This bike gives you three different frame size options to choose from. They’re 24, 27.5, and 29 inches.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- The 21-speed Shimano gear aids smooth ride
- You can upgrade the bike later
- It comes in different sizes and colors
- Durable and responsive riding experience
Cons:
- It has no disc brake
- Plastic pedal
- The seat can be a little uncomfortable
Conclusion
So, what’s next? The call is yours to make! You can enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride with any of the five full-suspension mountain bikes reviewed in this post.
And remember, you can always upgrade to a bike with higher specifications when you have a bigger budget.
