Freeride mountain biking is one of the most exhilarating disciplines you can enjoy. These trips usually come packed with unexpected adventures, beautiful scenery, and thrilling obstacles. If you want to enjoy this sport and recreational time to the fullest, you are going to need a good quality downhill bike.
In this guide, we are going to help you find the best freeride bike. We’ll compare 5 great bikes so you can select one that is just right for the type of biking trails you enjoy.
The 5 Best Freeride Bikes
A wide range of mountain bike types and designs are available on the market. When it comes to size and features, these aesthetics can vary a bit. Some might be more suitable for downhill trails. However, some mountain bikes are better equipped for rough terrain biking trails.
We took a lot of time researching suitable downhill mountain bikes. After that, we shortlisted the following quality bikes that we believe are just right for these outdoor activities. Let’s take a closer look.
1. The Mongoose Unisex Mountain Bike – The Overall Best
This unisex mountain bike by Mongoose is our top pick because it is made from quality materials and it is perfect for novice or experienced riders.
One of the best features of this 21-speed bike is its sturdy frame. Mongoose is known for producing high-end aluminum frames that can withstand a lot of impacts and handle plenty of weight.
The hardtail mountain bike is fitted with a sturdy dual suspension. This feature allows you to perform best on a wide range of trails including downhill trails and in chunky terrain types. The 21-speeds also offer a good level of flexibility for high performance on a huge range of terrains.
The sturdy bike is suitable for male and female riders but can be short for taller males. Overall, this is an excellent choice for many outdoor activities. This bike is also quite affordable for such a reputable brand.
Specifications
- Bike type – Mountain bike
- Age range – Adult male or female
- Wheel size – 27.5 / 26-inch
- Color – Dark silver, black/red, or teal colors
- Speeds – 21
- Frame material – Aluminum
- Suspension Type – Dual suspension
- Weight – 34.2 Pounds
Pros
- Reputable brand
- An Affordable price range for a Mongoose
- Suitable for males and females
- Attractive design and colors
- Offers good performance on off-road trails
- The thick, strong frame can carry a lot of weight and pressure
Cons
- Some have a little bit of difficulty rotating the handlebars during assembly
- Can be too short for taller males
- Aluminum MTB frame with hydroformed tubing and a powerful front suspension fork is strong and reliable; 26-inch wheels fit riders 64 to 74 inches tall
- 21-speed shifters make for smooth gear changes on every ride
- Front and rear V-brakes ensure quick stops out on the trail
- Light, durable alloy rims and 26x2.125
2. The Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike – The Runner Up
Next up we have the Schwinn Traxion bike. This bike is a good option for taller adult males of up to 6’2 feet because it comes with 29-inch wheels and a sturdy tall frame.
The rear suspension of this bike makes it ideal for huge jumps or rough terrains. The bike also features 24 different speed settings. This allows the bike to perform well regardless of the different terrains you might encounter on a long 30-mile trail ride.
This bike can be a good option for intermediate riders. Additionally, its reasonable price makes it appropriate for beginner freeride mountain bikers.
At 49 pounds, this bike is a bit heavy for an aluminum frame. However, this additional weight means that elite-quality materials were used for the wheels and gears.
Specifications
- Bike type – Mountain bike
- Age range – Adult males
- Wheel size – 29 Inch
- Color – Gray
- Speeds – 24
- Frame material – Aluminum
- Suspension Type – Dual
- Weight – 49 Pounds
Pros
- Good handling on rough terrains
- Ideal for intermediate riders
- Easy to assemble
- The stylish or sporty overall look
- The frame is strong enough to carry heavier male riders
- The rear suspension offers a good level of comfort
Cons
- The suspension is a bit basic
- Some find the bike a bit heavy for an aluminum-frame bike
- Schwinn aluminum dual suspension frame and powerful Schwinn suspension fork soak up bumps and thumps to provide you a durable riding experience
- 24 speed shifters and front and rear derailleurs make gear changes easy and smooth
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp all condition stopping out on the trail
- Extra wide double wall alloy rims are light and strong for added durability; 2.25 inch wide knobby mountain tires are ready for bumpy terrain
3. The Gravity FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike – The Best for Male or Female Riders
The Gravity FSX 1.0 is a good option if you are looking for a bike for male and female riders or need something suitable for older children.
One of the most attractive aspects of this bike is that it’s available in different frame sizes.
The bike comes with standard 26-inch wheels. The cool part is you can get the frame in 15, 17, 19, or 21-inch sizes, which are ideal for locating a bike that suits your height perfectly.
This bike is available in a variety of stylish colors. It also features an interesting, sporty aesthetic. That said, this bike checks all the boxes for style.
The coil shocks of this dual-suspension bike will keep you nice and comfortable on different terrains. Plus, they allow you to do massive jumps without feeling as much impact.
Specifications
- Bike type – Mountain bike
- Age range – Males or female adults (5’2 – 6’1 foot tall)
- Wheel size – 26 Inches
- Color – Black, white, gray, or yellow
- Speeds – 24
- Frame material – Aluminum
- Suspension Type – Dual Suspension
- Weight – 35 Pounds
Pros
- The bike is very light which is great for easy handling
- A variety of frame size options to choose from to accommodate different rider heights
- Affordable price range
- Good bike for trail riding
- Easy to assemble
- The lightweight bike is easy to handle
Cons
- 26-inch tires might be a bit small for a tall rider
4. The Mongoose Salvo Mountain Bike – Best Bike for Advanced Riders
Serious riders can consider this high-end bike by Mongoose. The downhill bike is a bit pricey, but it comes with an extremely sturdy frame that can handle lots of impacts and is suitable for heavy riders. It’s also fitted with an advanced free-floating technology suspension. This feature helps the bike seamlessly absorb bumps.
Its 2.25-inch wide knobby mountain tires will offer incredible grip on rough terrains.
This bike only has a 12-speed trigger shifter; switching gears can take a little time. Still, this simple gear ratio allows you to find a suitable speed level with fewer alterations.
As with most Mongoose bikes, this one has a very beautiful overall design that you can get in three different colors.
Specifications
- Bike type – Mountain bike
- Age range – Adults
- Wheel size – 29 Inches
- Color – Blue, black, or orange
- Speeds – 12
- Frame material – Aluminum
- Suspension Type – Dual suspension
- Weight – 44 Pounds
Pros
- Quality renowned brand
- Ideal for an advanced rider
- Handles rocky terrains very well
- Stylish overall look
- The full suspension offers a good level of comfort
- The frame is very sturdy and perfect for a heavy rider
Cons
- Expensive price range
- Dual suspension mountain bike for intermediate trail riders trying to reach a new level without breaking the bank, 29-inch wheels with a small frame fits riders 63 to 67 inches tall
- Aluminum frame with internal cable routing provides lightweight durability and a streamlined look
- Free Floating Technology suspension is designed to limit brake jack and help absorb bumps in the trail for a more comfortable ride
- 12-speed trigger shifter offers smooth gear changes. Hydraulic disc brakes deliver superior stopping power
5. The Schwinn S29 Mountain Bike – The Best for Intermediate Riders
The S29 by Schwinn is a good option for intermediate riders who are looking for a high-end bike that isn’t too costly.
Sports enthusiasts love the stylish overall look of the bike with its matte black frame and bright blue branding. One of the most outstanding features is its strong frame that can bear a lot of weight. It is a very tall bike that is perfect for taller and bigger riders.
The full suspension offers a good level of comfort and a nice balance for freeride movement. The bike also comes with quality wheels and wide knobby tires that offer plenty of traction to conquer rougher terrains.
Another aspect of this bike that a lot of riders love is its upgradeability. The bike is affordable and already features quality parts. If you want accessories that better meet your body type and comfort level, however, you’re in luck. Suspension, gears, handlebars, and seats can be switched out and updated.
Specifications
- Bike type – Mountain Bike
- Age range – Adults
- Wheel size – 29 Inches
- Color – Black/blue
- Speeds – 21
- Frame material – Aluminum
- Suspension Type – Dual suspension
- Weight – 46 Pounds
Pros
- Ideal bike for advanced riders
- The bike is ideal for tall users
- Easy to assemble
- The bike is highly upgradeable
- Offers very good handling
- A good option for various terrains
Cons
- Beginners have a tough time getting the brakes and pedals adjusted properly
- Schwinn aluminum dual-suspension frame with a front suspension fork and rear shocks for ultimate bump absorption and durable trail riding
- Frame – 18” Medium | Suggested rider height – 5’ 9” to 6’ 2” | Chain size – 1.5” x 3/32 with 110 links | Tire size – 29 x 2.0 | Brake type – Mechanical
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp all condition stopping out on the trail
- Extra wide double wall alloy rims are light and strong for added durability; 2.25 inch wide knobby mountain tires are ready for bumpy terrain
Final Thoughts
We hope that our guide helped you find the best freeride bike! We want you to have fun on your outdoorsy adventures and stay comfortable when taking on a variety of terrain types.
If you want to find out more about other fun sports and the best gear involved, we welcome you to have a look at some of our other guides! With our guides, you can find great sports tips and locate all the latest and greatest gear for these activities.