Best Women’s Mountain Bike Under $500 (7 Picks)

Photo of two highland women's mountain bikes one in blue and step-throug and the other in red. Best Women's Mountain Bike Under $500.

Mountain biking is an exciting and challenging activity that requires a reliable and sturdy bike. However, finding a high-quality women’s mountain bike that fits your budget can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent options available for under $500.

Below, we’ll take an in-depth look into the best women’s mountain bike under $500 to help you make an informed decision.

Best Women’s Mountain Bike Under $500

Looking for a mountain bike that won’t break the bank? You’re in luck! We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best women’s mountain bikes under $500. These bikes are perfect for beginners or anyone on a budget who wants to hit the trails without sacrificing quality. From lightweight frames to durable components, these bikes are sure to deliver a smooth and enjoyable ride. So, whether you’re looking to explore new trails or simply get some exercise, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike

Photo of a Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike in purple color and on a white background.

Looking for a women’s mountain bike under $500? The Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike is a great option that offers a lot of features for the price.

Pros

  • The aluminum full-suspension mountain frame enhances both comfort and performance.
  • The suspension fork evens out bumps and enhances control. 
  • SRAM twist shifters make gear changes simple.

Cons

  • Linear pull brakes deliver great braking power but may require adjustment.
  • Assembly instructions may be difficult to follow.
  • Some users have reported missing parts upon delivery.

This bike is designed with a lightweight aluminum frame and 24-inch wheels, making it a great fit for riders ages 8 and up or 4’8” to 5’6”. With 21 speeds and a Shimano rear derailleur, it’s great for all types of riding, and the linear-pull brakes provide great stopping power.

One of the best features of this bike is the full suspension mountain frame, which maximizes comfort and performance. The suspension fork also helps to smooth out bumps and increase control, making for a more enjoyable ride. The SRAM twist shifters are also a nice touch, allowing for easy gear changes on the fly.

While the linear-pull brakes are powerful, some users have reported that they may require adjustment. Additionally, the assembly instructions may be difficult to follow for some users, so it’s important to take your time and follow them closely. Finally, some users have reported missing parts upon delivery, so be sure to double-check everything when assembling the bike.

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Hiland Women’s Mountain Bike

Photo of a Hiland Women’s Mountain Bike in a light blue color and on a white background.

If you’re looking for an affordable women’s mountain bike, the Hiland Women’s Mountain Bike is a great option.

Pros

  • The high carbon steel frame provides durability and shock resistance.
  • The 21-speed Shimano gearing allows for total control and adaptability to various terrains.
  • The frame design is simpler to maintain and is great for teenagers and women.

Cons

  • The brakes may need some adjustment.
  • The bike may not be suitable for taller riders.
  • The assembly process may require some assistance.

The Hiland Women’s Mountain Bike is designed for youth and women with a low and smooth frame that makes riding easier. The bike has internal cable routing that makes it look slick and more aerodynamic than external routing at high speed. The double-wall aluminum tires enhance safety whether you’re speeding through the city or tackling varied terrain. They also improve pedaling efficiency.

The bike comes 85% pre-assembled and is easy to assemble within 25 minutes. The delivery box includes free installation tools, pedals, and a kickstand. The bike is suitable for a person 5’3- 6’ tall and over 12 years old and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

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Elecony Women’s Mountain Bike

Photo of a Elecony Women's Mountain Bike in black with green decals and on a white background.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mountain bike that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Elecony 26-inch Mountain Bike might be the perfect option for you.

Pros

  • The steel suspension frame absorbs bumps and reduces wind resistance during rides.
  • The mechanical disc brakes provide precise and controlled braking, especially in wet and slippery conditions.
  • The Shimano TZ500 shifter with 21 speeds allows for quick and smooth gear changes on various terrains.

Cons

  • Some users reported minor issues with tightening screws during assembly.
  • The plastic fenders may not be durable enough for rough mountain rides.
  • The disk brakes may require some adjustments to align properly.

The Elecony 26-Inch Mountain Bike is a great choice for beginners or casual riders who want a reliable and comfortable bike for their outdoor adventures. The steel suspension frame provides a smooth and stable ride, while the mechanical disc brakes ensure your safety during steep descents or sudden stops. The Shimano TZ500 shifter with 21 speeds gives you the versatility to tackle different terrains, whether it’s a steep mountain trail or a flat city street.

Assembly is relatively easy, and the bike comes with free pedals and assembly tools. You can follow the tutorial videos for a step-by-step guide, and the customer service team is always ready to assist you if you encounter any problems. The tires are made of high-quality rubber and have strong puncture and abrasion resistance, making them suitable for various riding experiences.

However, some users reported minor issues with tightening screws during assembly, so it’s important to double-check everything before hitting the road. The plastic fenders may not be durable enough for rough mountain rides, so you may need to replace them with sturdier ones. The disk brakes may also require some adjustments to align properly, but this can be easily done with some basic tools.

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Dynacraft Echo Ridge Mountain Bike

Photo of a Dynacraft Echo Ridge Mountain Bike in blue color and on a white background.

If you’re looking for an affordable women’s mountain bike, the Dynacraft Echo Ridge is a good option.

Pros

  • The front fork shock absorbs bumps on the trail for a smoother ride.
  • The 18-speed index shifter gears make climbing hills easier.
  • The front and rear linear-pull brakes provide reliable stopping power.

Cons

  • Some customers have reported missing or damaged parts upon delivery.
  • The bike may require adjustments or tune-ups to work properly.
  • The seat may not be very comfortable for longer rides.

The Dynacraft Echo Ridge features a solid steel frame with a deluxe red paint finish and custom graphics. The navy blue, black, and white accents add a touch of style to the bike. With front and rear linear-pull brakes, you can stop quickly and safely. The 18-speed index shifter gears allow you to easily shift between gears for a smoother ride. The front fork shock helps absorb bumps on the trail, making your ride more comfortable.

While some customers have reported issues with missing or damaged parts upon delivery, the bike is generally easy to assemble. However, it may require adjustments or tune-ups to work properly. Additionally, the seat may not be very comfortable for longer rides and may require a replacement.

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Hiland Mountain Bike for Women

Photo of a Hiland Mountain Bike for Women in pink color and on a white background.

If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike that’s perfect for women, the Hiland GAMILLE 300 is a great option.

Pros

  • The aluminum frame is strong, light, and ideal for safely and comfortably exploring mountain trails.
  • The dual mechanical disc brakes provide better durability and stopping power.
  • The front suspension fork soaks up bumps and dips, giving you a smoother ride.

Cons

  • The seat is uncomfortable and may require a gel memory foam cover.
  • The bike may require a serious tune-up after installation.
  • Some customers have reported issues with parts and almost no service.

The Hiland GAMILLE 300 is a great choice for women who want to explore mountain trails in safety and comfort. With its durable, ultralight, and preservative aluminum frame, this bike is perfect for shorter riders who want to straddle their bike more easily. The dual mechanical disc brakes provide better durability and stopping power, while the front suspension fork absorbs bumps and dips, ensuring a smoother ride.

Experience precise and swift shifting with the 21-speed 3*7 drivetrain. Gain enhanced control for climbing, descents, and corners, making your ride more enjoyable. The non-slip, explosion-proof tires offer strong grip and puncture resistance for added safety. The wide bike seat for women is adjustable, breathable, and no-slip.

The Hiland GAMILLE 300 is 85% pre-assembled and comes with assembly tools included. It’s easy to assemble within 25 minutes, and there’s an assembly video on the product page. If you have questions about bicycles, you can contact the manufacturer, and they will give you answers and solutions.

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Hiland 26 Inch Step-Through Women’s Mountain Bike

Photo of a Hiland 26 Inch Step-Through Women's Mountain Bike in blue color and white background.

If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike that’s designed for women, the HH Hiland 26-inch Women’s Mountain Bike is a great option.

Pros

  • Sturdy carbon steel frame
  • 21-speed SHIMANO gearing
  • Simple frame design for easy maintenance

Cons

  • Brakes may need adjustment
  • Assembly may require assistance
  • Not suitable for riders under 5’3”

This bike features a high carbon steel frame that’s durable and shock-resistant. The internal cable routing gives it a sleek look that’s more aerodynamic than external routing at high speeds. The SHIMANO 21-speed derailleurs ensure total control and adaptability to various roads, such as forest roads, gravel, grass, and mountain roads.

The frame design is simpler to maintain and greater for teenagers and women, and the low and smooth frame makes riding easier. Double-wall aluminum tires ensure safety when you ride faster in the city or on terrain and are more efficient when pedaling.

The Hiland mountain bike is 85% pre-assembled and easy to assemble within 25 minutes. The package comes with complimentary installation tools, pedals, and a kickstand. It’s designed for individuals between 5’3” and 6’ tall, aged 12 and above. And just like all Hiland products, it’s supported by a limited lifetime warranty.

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Huffy Stone Mountain Women’s Mountain Bike

Photo of a Huffy Stone Mountain Women’s Mountain Bike in gray and on a white background.

If you’re looking for a reliable mountain bike that won’t break the bank, the Huffy Stone Mountain Women’s Mountain Bike is a great choice.

Pros

  • With 21 speeds and a front suspension fork, this bike is ready to tackle any terrain you throw at it.
  • The steel hardtail frame is durable and backed by a limited lifetime warranty, so you can trust this bike to last.
  • The quick-release seat adjustment makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your height.

Cons

  • The seat may not be the most comfortable for long rides.
  • Some riders have reported issues with the brakes needing adjustment.
  • The bike is on the heavier side, which may make it more difficult to transport.

This bike is designed for riders over 5 feet tall and is ideal for ages 13 and up. The Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur and micro-shift twist shifter provide 21 speeds on-demand, making it easy to switch gears for uphill climbs or downhill riding. The knobby tires provide good traction on a variety of surfaces, and the front and rear steel linear pull handbrakes deliver consistent stopping power.

Assembly is easy thanks to the step-by-step instructions in the product manual, and there’s even an assembly tutorial video available online. The ATB saddle is padded for comfort, and the Kraton grips are comfortable to the touch. The bike also comes with a kickstand included.

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Buying Guide

If you’re looking for the best women’s mountain bike under $500, there are a few things to consider before making your purchase. Here are some features to look for to ensure you get a bike that fits your needs:

Frame Material

When choosing your mountain bike’s frame, material matters. Aluminum frames are light and strong, a popular choice for many. Steel frames are heavier but offer a smooth ride. Carbon fiber frames are pricier but ultra-light and comfortable, perfect for racing.

Suspension

Mountain bikes come with either front or full suspension. Front suspension bikes have a suspension fork on the front wheel, while full suspension bikes have both front and rear suspension. Full-suspension bikes provide a smoother ride on rough terrain but are more expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, a front-suspension bike may be a better option.

Wheel Size

Mountain bikes come in a variety of wheel sizes, including 26”, 27.5”, and 29”. Smaller wheels are more maneuverable, while larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily. Consider your riding style and the terrain you’ll be riding on when choosing a wheel size.

Brakes

Mountain bikes typically come with either rim brakes or disc brakes. Disc brakes provide better stopping power and perform better in wet conditions. Rim brakes are less expensive but may not be as effective in wet weather.

Gearing

Mountain bikes come with a variety of gears, ranging from single-speed to 30-speed or more. More gears provide more options for climbing hills and adjusting to different terrain. However, more gears also mean a higher price tag. Consider your riding style and the terrain you’ll be riding on when choosing the number of gears.

By considering these factors, you can choose a women’s mountain bike under $500 that meets your needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

FAQ: Best Women’s Mountain Bike Under $500

What are some good options for a women’s mountain bike under $500?

There are a number of great options available for women’s mountain bikes under $500. Some popular choices include the Schwinn High Timber Women’s Mountain Bike, the Huffy Summit Ridge Women’s Mountain Bike, and the Kent KZ2600 Dual Suspension Mountain Bike. These bikes offer a range of features and styles to fit your needs and preferences.

What should I look for when buying a budget mountain bike?

When shopping for a budget mountain bike, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Look for a bike with durable components, such as a sturdy frame and reliable brakes. Consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and choose a bike with appropriate suspension and gearing. Finally, make sure the bike fits you properly and is comfortable to ride.

Can a $500 mountain bike be worth the investment?

Absolutely! While you may not get all the bells and whistles of a high-end mountain bike, a $500 bike can still offer a great riding experience. Look for a bike with quality components and a durable frame, and you’ll be able to enjoy many hours of fun on the trails.

What size mountain bike should a 5’2 woman get?

For a woman who is 5’2, a mountain bike with a frame size of around 15 inches (38 cm) should be a good fit. However, it’s important to try out different bikes and sizes to find the one that feels most comfortable to you.

What are the differences between cheap and expensive mountain bikes?

The main difference between cheap and expensive mountain bikes is the quality of the components and materials used. Expensive bikes often feature lightweight frames, high-end suspension systems, and top-of-the-line gears and brakes. Cheaper bikes may have heavier frames and less advanced components, but can still be a great option for beginners or casual riders.

Are there any reliable brands for budget-friendly mountain bikes?

Yes, there are many reliable brands that offer budget-friendly mountain bikes. Some popular options include Schwinn, Huffy, Kent, and Diamondback. It’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a quality bike.

I've been riding bikes for 30 of my 35 years. Nothing gives me more pleasure than grabbing my Enduro bike and take on the mountains. Learn more about me here.