Mountain Biking
27/01/2025
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No fluff, No jargon,
Just the bikes we’d
recommend to our mates
If you’re new to MTB, choosing your first bike can feel overwhelming. Hardtail or full suspension? Trail or XC? Budget or blowout? Don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to pick a beginner-friendly mountain bike that fits your riding style, goals, and budget.
Whether you’re planning casual trail rides on the weekend, hitting local bike parks, or training for your first event, this list will help you get rolling with confidence.
When you’re starting out, it’s easy to get lost in the details. But here are the core features that matter:
Frame Material: Aluminium is ideal — light, affordable, and durable.
Wheel Size: 27.5″ or 29″ wheels are both great. 29″ offers more rollover, while 27.5″ is more nimble.
Suspension Type: Most beginners are best off with a hardtail — simpler, cheaper, and easier to maintain.
Drivetrain: Look for a 1x drivetrain (one front chainring) for ease of use.
Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes are a must, even at the entry level.
Heads-up! – Some links below are affiliate links. That means if you buy through them, we might earn a small commission — at no cost to you. It helps us keep testing gear and sharing honest recommendations.
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Solid beginner-friendly geometry with upgrade potential
If you’ve got a bit more to spend and are aiming for trail centres or more aggressive terrain:
Want help figuring out your full setup cost? Grab our free downloadable checklist + budget planner to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Choosing your first mountain bike should be exciting — not stressful. Start with a realistic budget, decide what kind of riding you want to do, and pick something that can grow with you.
Let us know in the comments: what are you riding, or thinking of buying?
Uncover the roadmap to Prepare, Launch, and grow your dream online business!
Imagine quitting your job and having the freedom to hit the trails whenever you want, making unforgettable memories with fellow bikers and loved ones.
Let’s make your dream a reality!
Affiliate Disclosure: This website endorses Launchyou.com (LY), should you purchase any LY educational products, we will receive a percentage of the sale for the referral. By clicking any affiliate links on this website you will not pay any more than if you were to purchase directly.
A simple checklist to help you plan your first mountain bike setup without blowing your budget.
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