Best mountain bike: how to choose the right one for you

Picking out the best mountain bike can seem like a complicated business. The sheer variety of bike types, not to mention the bewildering array of technology and terminology surrounding them, can seem staggering.

Our buying guide will run you through everything you need to know, from how much you should spend to what kind of mountain bike will be best for you. We’ll also highlight the key features you should look out for and then point you to our lists of the best buys at each price point.

The path to choosing your ideal ride can seem as root-infested as any trail – let us be your guide…

How much do I need to spend?

For most people – and especially when starting out – budget is the critical factor when looking at a new bike. How much you’re willing to spend radically affects what’s on offer, and it’s easy to look at mountain bikes in a shop or online and be put off by the stupendous price tags attached to many of them.

Just because you can spend a lot doesn’t mean you need to. But there are some basic features you should expect at various prices.

£350

£500

£750

£1000

£1500

£3000

£4000+

So what kind of mountain bike should I buy?

Cross-country (XC) bike

Entry: £750 (hardtail) £1,000 (full suspension)
Good: £1,500 (hardtail) £2,500 (full suspension)
Brilliant: £2,500 (hardtail) £3,500 (full suspension)

Trail bike

Entry: £750 (hardtail) £1,000 (full suspension)
Good: £1,500 (hardtail) £2,500 (full suspension)
Brilliant: £2,500 (hardtail) £3,500 (full suspension)

Enduro bike

Entry: £1,300
Good: £2,600
Brilliant: £4,000

Downhill bike

Entry: £1,500
Good: £3,000
Brilliant: £5,000

Wait, we’re not finished!

What size bike do I need?

You can read more at BikeRadar.com