So you are one of those people who enjoy riding a good mountain bike regardless of the time of the year? That’s great! But there comes a time when you need a new bike, a better bike.
When the time comes, you must take into consideration all the factors that contribute to a smart decision. Being able to find an affordable bike that stands out of the crowd is quite a challenge.
Less is more is a quote that often applies in this industry, which is why you should analyze the market thoroughly.
In this article, you will find 5 tips that you can use when you are in the search of the best mountain bike for your money.
What to look for in the best bike for your needs?
Let’s be honest. Sometimes we look far beyond our true needs when it comes to choosing a new bike. We don’t always need to buy the most expensive bikes or gears, but still, we dream about these things and we follow their price evolution.
When you are on a budget, it is best to focus on the things that really matter. For example, you should think about the type of trails that you will be riding on and what kind of bike you really need in the given situation. 2
Also, it is important to determine whether you need a trail bike, an all-mountain bike, a cross country one or a dirt jump one. Choosing between hardtail or full suspension bikes is also important.
Here’s what you should pay attention to the most:
- The drivetrain
- The suspensions
- The wheels
- The brakes
- The frame materials
Tip #1
Choose between the light, the strong or the cheap
When your budget is limited you definitely can’t afford to buy mountain bikes that come with all of these advantages.
Think about what you need most and focus on that particular thing.
You won’t be able to buy the best bike on the market, but, with enough research, you can buy the best mountain bike for your money.
If you want a bike that is both strong and light, then the frame should be made of the best material mix. That means that it will not be cheap. Titanium and carbon frames are the most expensive and are considered to be the best.
A durable frame is extremely important if you are looking for a strong bike.
Tip #2
You don’t always have to buy a new bike
Do you have any idea how many people who can afford expensive bikes simply keep them in their garages? If you are
looking to buy a cheap bike with great specs, you should also check out the second-hand market. Eventually, you will find a nice, strong bike that suits your needs.
There are many cases in which bike owners choose to go for newer models and decide to sell the ones they already own. Don’t be too skeptical about used bikes. You would be surprised to see that many of them are as good as new.
Tip #3
Try out various models
You haven’t decided which bike type is better for your needs? Or you are a newbie who can’t really tell if the bike is comfortable or suitable for a specific type of road?
Talk to your friends and acquaintances about your desire to buy a new bike and ask for advice. Get on your friends’ bikes and ask for riding tests before actually buying one. Remember that you will only be able to tell whether or not the bike is what you need after a few minutes.
Tip #4
Hardtail bikes
Full suspension bikes are everyone’s dream, but they require a larger investment. However, hardtail bikes are also great bikes, depending on one’s needs. They are best for occasional use and for riders that feel that they must gain some experience.
A hardtail bike has a solid frame and a suspension fork in the front. It requires less maintenance than a full suspension bike, being an ideal option for those who have a limited budget.
Tip #5
Get inspiration from high-end bikes
Is there a specific brand that manufactures your favorite bike model, but you can’t afford it? If yes, you should know that there are plenty of cheaper brands that probably manufacture the same model somewhere.
Check out your favorite bike’s specifications and try to find them elsewhere at a lower price. You will be surprised to 
see how many things these models have in common.
Moreover, if you know a few things about a bike’s mechanism and design, you can try to configure one yourself, by simply buying all the parts you need and putting them all together. In most cases, the investment only reaches a third of a new bike’s cost.
If, however, you choose to go for a replica, don’t expect it to be flawless. Prepare yourself for minor aesthetic errors and try to choose a bike with great warranty coverage.
Choosing the best mountain bike for your money isn’t an easy task. Be patient and don’t throw your money away for a bike that you don’t know well enough. Also, as recommended above, make sure to try out as many models as possible before making a decision.
The purpose of use, the routes you will be using it on, the required maintenance, your riding style, are all important factors that must be taken into consideration when looking for your next bike.
Additionally, there are things that you shouldn’t pay so much attention to, such as some design elements. In most cases, they don’t affect a rider’s experience and they don’t play an essential role, especially if the bike is used occasionally.
Unless something in the bike’s design has an important role, try to find one that is as simple as possible. This way, you will be able to reduce its price even more.
Once you found the perfect one, make sure it is covered by warranty, find out what is covered and what not and make sure that the gears and accessories are affordable enough.