Hardtail mountain bikes, also sometimes referred to as front suspension bikes, are one of the best types of bikes suited to cross-country or mountain biking because of how well they handle all types of terrain.
This includes uneven surfaces, due to the front suspension fork (hence the alternative name) bearing the brunt of any bumps in the road but without the drawbacks of a rear suspension, such as increased weight and reduced speed.
As you progress on your cycling journey, you’ll come to learn more about the different types of bikes that are available to you, but even experienced riders need pointing in the right direction sometimes.
That’s where we come in. With so many different types of bikes available and factors like tires, suspension, and frame to consider, you’re spoilt for choice!
Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of 10 hardtail mountain bikes.
You’ll find that they tend to be less expensive than other types of mountain bikes, but we’ve given ourselves a budget of up to $1500 so we can really show you what some of the best hardtail mountain bikes have to offer.
Ready for the ride of your life? Grab your helmet and get ready to put your pedal to the metal, because we have a fair few options to get through.
OUR TOP PICK
Diamondback proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune on a bicycle for it to be of high quality.
Their Overdrive hardtail mountain bike is the perfect example of how to improve on existing success, as they’ve refined their classic model and returned it to the market with confidence.
Built from aluminum alloy, the sturdy hardtail frame offers great suspension to see you go smoothly over bumps and troughs.
The SR Sun tour XCT 27 spring coil fork has 80mm of travel, so even on the roughest terrains, the impact is absorbed.
You’ll be up and over the hill with ease thanks to the Shimano 3x8 speed drivetrain that has Suntour XCT cranks and a large range of gears.
Shift smoothly from one to the next whilst you’re cycling for a more fluid biking experience.
Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes feature 160mm rotors and provide the stopping power you need with a bike capable of such high speeds.
Whatever the weather, you can be confident that whenever you need, you can come to a complete stop with full control.
Ready to ride right out of the packaging, this hardtail mountain bike is shipped already assembled so you don’t have to worry about the fiddly bits - simply attach the front wheels, seat, and pedal, give the tires a quick pump, then get on and go!
Pros
Excellent value for money
Impressive stopping power with disc brakes
Shipped already assembled for customer convenience
Offers smoother cycling experience
Cons
The seat could be more comfortable
EDITORS CHOICE
The most expensive option we’ve included is the SAVADECK hardtail mountain bike, which is impressive in its offering of features and quality.
With its Toray T800 carbon fiber frame, the structure of this bike is uniquely strong whilst also being lightweight for easier handling.
It features an excellent dampening system thanks to its hydraulic suspension fork with lockout, and it boasts 100mm of suspension travel.
The derailleur system is equally as impressive and allows you to ride this mountain bike with ease, wherever you go.
Emergency stopping is also no problem for this SAVADECK hardtail bike, as the double mechanical disc brakes are reliable and effective.
Coupled with the CST mountain bike tires, you’ll have great control in all conditions as you ride.
Internal cable routing enhances this bikes sleek design and allows for clean airflow over the whole bike so you can reach faster speeds, which is perfect for the experienced mountain biker.
Pros
Carbon fiber frame
Great suspension for smoother riding
Double mechanical disc brakes
95% pre-assembled
Cons
Customers report it might be worth getting a smaller size frame than what the specs recommend for easier dismounting
BEST VALUE
Next, we looked at this Merax mountain bike which features high-quality suspension with a forks design.
This helps to ensure a smoother riding experience by lessening the impact when you end up hitting a bump in the road, plus, it’ll improve your control overall.
It’s an entry-level bike that won’t break the bank, yet is still great quality.
The 330 lbs lightweight frame is durable and well-structured enough that it can support a larger rider, and is intended to be so packed with features that it meets every one of your riding needs.
When you need to stop, dual disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, and when you’re on the go, you can make use of the fitted Shimano 24-speed derailleurs to improve the transition between gears.
The Kenda 26-inch tires are high-quality and capable of traveling at high speeds over rocky and uneven surfaces, which is perfect for the mountain biking enthusiast.
It’s also great for city trails making it a versatile choice for someone who’s not yet fully committed to the harder mountain trails.
Pros
Good value for money
High-quality front suspension
24 speed derailleurs and shifters for precise gear shifting
1-year warranty
Cons
Some users found it slightly tricky to assemble
Not the most lightweight option
RUNNER UP
Next up we have this Mongoose Angus Trail hardtail mountain bike for multi-terrain use. It’s suitable for all riders between 4 ft. 8 inches and 5 ft. 6 inches, including ages 8 and upwards.
The MTB aluminum fat tire hardtail frame is available in multiple color options, and it includes an alloy fork that has 135 mm spacing to provide an even stronger, more stable riding experience.
Riding this bike is a piece of cake, which is the first thing you’ll be reaching for after a hardcore session in the woods.
With Shimano rapid-fire 2 x 8 shifters and derailleurs, you can utilize the large range of gears to suit whatever surface you’re cycling on.
The surface grip is also enhanced by the 24 x 4-inch knobby tires that will stop you in your tracks come sand or snow, with excellent traction.
Coupled with the mechanical disc brakes, you’ll have unparalleled stopping power.
Pros
Multiple color options available
Excellent traction
Swift, sharp stopping power
Easy to ride
Cons
You get what you pay for durability-wise
RUNNER UP
If cycling is a fun activity for you and your family, why not get your kid their very own hardtail mountain bike?
Suitable for children aged 5-9 who are between 44-56 inches in height, this Huffy bike is perfect for the younger mountain biking enthusiast so they can keep up with you on your next cycling trip.
The durable hardtail steel frame sports a glossy blue finish, and the kilo 1200 suspension fork minimizes the impact of any bumps and jolts in the road.
Even if you do hit a big dip, the padded ATB saddle provides additional comfort.
Back and shoulder strain shouldn’t be a problem either, as the slight-rise handlebars encourage your kid to ride in an upright position, and quick-alloy release allows you to adjust the seat to whatever height they need.
There are 6 speeds for your child to choose from, so they can pedal as fast as their little legs are able to with their feet firmly planted on the ATB-type resin pedals, with a highly responsive 3-piece crank.
Pros
The best option for young children
Provides a smoother riding experience thanks to the kilo 1,200 suspension
A removable Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur guard allows for consistent gear operation
The durable steel frame is capable of handling bumps and dips
Tires can handle practically any surface
Cons
The gear system isn’t as strong as other models
RUNNER UP
One of the more affordable options on our list is this Max4out front suspension mountain bike, although it still offers good quality for beginners and or anyone looking for a mountain bike on a stricter budget.
It’s the best choice for riders of different heights, ranging from 5 ft. 2-inches up to 6 ft. tall.
The 17-inch high carbon steel frame is great for off-roading, as are the shock-absorbing all-terrain 26-inch tires with 3-spoke fashion rims and suspension fork.
Enjoy the experience of mountain biking more with the smooth, effective gear changes and 21 speed derailleurs at both the front and back of the bike which allow for fluid transitions, and front and rear disc brakes provide additional control.
It’s easy to assemble and it comes with everything you need to put this bike together, although 85% of the parts arrive already assembled to make things easier for you.
Any problems and their friendly customer services team are happy to help!
Pros
Great for a range of rider heights
All-terrain tires are designed for shock absorption
Affordable option
85% pre-assembled parts
Cons
Some reported issues with durability
RUNNER UP
If you’re lucky enough to have a teenager that still wants to actively participate in family activities, why not thank them for gracing you with their presence by getting them this Huffy 24-inch wheels mountain bike.
If your teen acts like they’re allergic to family fun, then at least it’ll make a great bribe.
Suitable for 12 to 19 year olds, it features 24-inch wheels and a 15-inch frame that has a lovely lilac gloss finish.
It’s lightweight which makes the bike easier to transport, yet the aluminum hardtail frame is durable enough that it’s backed by a limited 10-year warranty.
The Shimano drivetrain offers 21 speeds that allow you to smoothly shift gears, so no more dodgy gear changes while you’re cycling.
The Kraton grips are responsive, and the risk of repetitive strain injuries are reduced as the slight-rise handlebars keep you cycling upright.
Comfort is often accepted as a non-option when you’re mountain biking due to nature’s bumpy course, but you can get comfortable in your seat thanks to the padded ATB saddle on this bike, which is stitched to last for enhanced durability.
Whether your biking journey is smooth sailing or you find yourself traversing rough terrain, the high-quality front suspension is suitable for all types of surfaces and is supported by the front-load stem which features a forged crown.
Pros
The best option for teenagers
Alloy linear pull brakes for smooth stops
Arrives partially assembled
Tires have excellent grip on dirt and gravel in all weather conditions
Cons
Some customers have reported issues with rear wheels
RUNNER UP
Get ready for the ride of your life with the Schwinn Bonafide front suspension mountain bike, with an aluminum mountain frame that offers powerful front suspension for off-road riding.
Built specifically for rough and rocky trails, bumps and jolts along the journey are absorbed by the high-quality Schwinn suspension fork, which is designed for long-lasting use.
The lightweight frame is supported by large 29-inch tires that are knobby so that they’re capable of handling uneven surfaces.
High profile double-wall alloy rims protect them against damage to further extend the use you’ll get out of this great bike, without adding much to the overall weight.
Even if you can’t control the weather, you can control this bike at all times for enhanced safety, as there are mechanical disc brakes at the front and rear to bring you swiftly to a stop when you need it, no matter what conditions you’re riding in.
With matching colored end plugs and rims, you can ride well and look cool whilst doing it. It also arrives assembled and ready for you to hop on and cycle off, with a 5-year warranty backing it (and you) if there are any issues.
Pros
Large tires to support the frame and provide smoother traveling over uneven terrain
Mechanical disc brakes for enhanced stopping power
Smooth transitions between gears
Cool, attractive design
24 speed derailleurs
Cons
More expensive option
RUNNER UP
Next, we have this OBK mountain bike with front-suspension. It’s another more affordable option on our list, and we love it because of the enhanced safety it provides to the rider, even in less than ideal weather conditions.
Front and rear disc brakes mean you can control your stopping power even at higher speeds, and the tires offer a good grip. There are aluminum alloy double-wall spoke rim tires or mag wheels to choose from.
There are fewer speed options, the gear shifts are sensitive and responsive to make the ones you do have count. A suspension fork provides even smoother cycling with more control over dips or bumps in your path.
Arriving with 85% of the parts already assembled, you’ll have little trouble putting the rest of this bike together, even as a total novice!
If you do have any questions or problems, simply contact the seller who is happy to help.
Pros
Almost completely assembled already on arrival
High-quality for the affordable price
Safe stopping thanks to the braking system
Great seller communication and customer service
Cons
Quite low to the ground
Less speed shifter options
RUNNER UP
Last on our list is this final offering from Huffy, a bike made for outdoor activities and adventures. You’ll be a master of your local trails in no time!
Perfect for riders that are at least 5 ft. in height and for ages 13 and upwards, the 17-inch frame is lightweight yet durable, and Huffy’s confidence in the lifespan of their product is backed by a generous limited lifetime warranty.
Front suspension reduces the effects of bumps and jolts when you go over them, and even when you’re being jostled about the padded seat breaks your landing for additional comfort.
Slight-rise handlebars also prevent discomfort from riding at an angle that can cause back pain.
Uphill climbing and downhill riding are both achievable thanks to micro shift twist shifters in combination with the Shimano TZ-31 rear derailleur, and a removable rear derailleur guard secures consistent and smooth gear operation.
Pros
Quality brand
Lifetime limited warranty
Comfortable to ride and a correct upright position is encouraged by the handlebars
The tires have a great surface grip
Cons
Handlebars can sometimes come loose
Conclusion
Mountain biking is an extremely popular outdoor hobby, and although people often say a bad sportsman blames his tools, the same can’t be said for mountain bikers.
Your bike is the foundation of your cycling experience! That means you’ll want to invest in one that’s going to increase the level of enjoyment you get from your hobby.
Well, you can’t go wrong with the Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive Hardtail Mountain Bike, as it’s a great value for money option with plenty of features to improve your cycling experience.
Although one of the more expensive options, the Schwinn Bonafide Front Suspension Mountain Bike is also a worthwhile purchase if you prefer a smoother ride with more handling control.
Looking for a bike for your children as well as for yourself? The Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike is sure to put a smile on their face, or the Huffy Escalate Hardtail Mountain Bike 24-Inch Wheels is a great option for teenagers.
Whichever hardtail mountain bike you choose to go for, consider the type of trails you’ll be riding so you can choose the features that matter most to you.
Also, make sure you check the size of the frame and recommended height guidelines for a perfect fit.