Beginner Mountain Bikes

BeginnerMountainBikes

The best starter mountain bikes to get you shredding on the trails.

Cannondale Trail 8 2021

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 2021 – Better Bike for Beginners

Jason

Which bike should you choose as a beginner between the Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 in 2021?

Cannondale manufacture a range of entry level bikes for beginners. The Cannondale Trail series is the mountain bike range that gives you off-roading capabilities on a budget . The Cannondale Trail 8 is the first entry into the trail series that gives you a products that’s a step above department store bike models.

Trek manufacture mountain bikes to perform well and continue doing so long after the first ride. The Trek Marlin 5 is no different and comes stock with a great set of components for the asking price.

How do does the Marlin 5 compare to the Trail 8?

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 – What’s Similar?

Grippy knobby tires.

The Marlin 5 and the Trail 8 are both spec’d with knobby tire for increased grip in looser dirt sections. The increased grip comes at cost of less rollability on flatter sections. If you’ll be riding predominantly on paved roads, the knobs on the tires will wear and become smooth giving you increased rollability on the road.

Lighter weight aluminum frame

The Cannondale and Trek are both built on a lightly constructed aluminum frame . This frame material is stiff and strong with the main benefit being the weight advantage it has over steel . With a lighter frame weight you can go further with less energy. You’ll also be able throw the bike around corners more easily and pull off cool jumps and hops more readily, increasing the fun factor off-road or in your local bike parks.

Cannondale Trail 8 vs Trek Marlin 5 2021

Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 – What’s Different?

Suspension forks.

You’ll get a longer 100mm travel with the Trek suspension fork compared to 75mm on the Cannondale. The longer travel is especially good for riders who will be using the bikes on rougher roads and tackling bigger drops. In addition, heavier riders will appreciate the longer travel fork. It’ll mean you can ride on a plusher setting while still being able to have  some fork travel in reserve.

Gears and Chainring System

Trek has 3 gears on front, 7 at back, the Cannondale has 2 up front and 7 on the back. The 2 x 7 system on Cannondale is generally preferred for off-roading as it is a simpler system. The 3 x gear ratios mean that some speeds on the Trek are unnecessary as the same speeds can be achieved with multiple combinations of gears. Some prefer the finer increments you can get on the 3x system of the Trek but a 2x front ring style is all you’ll ever need for recreational mountain biking on light trails.

Riser Bars Vs Flat bars Style

The trail will fill more stable downhill as the frame is designed with a downhill oriented head angle. In addition, the 25mm riser handlebars give you the confidence to tackle downhill sections at speed.

The flat bars on the Trek are more traditional for a cross country bike and are preferred for climbing and responsiveness.

Braking System

Treks hydraulic disc brakes give you more stopping power requiring less effort than the cable style brakes found on the Cannondale. This does mean however that you’ll need to do maintenance that is more complex and expensive than the mechanical cable braking system.

Trek Marlin 5 Black 2021

Trek Marlin 5 vs Cannondale Trail 8 – Head to Head

Internal cable routing and internal dropper post compatibility.

Trek Marlin 5 has clean internally routed cable design throughout. In comparison the Cannondale has externally routed brake cables.

The  Cannondale Trail frame allows for internal dropper post cable routing through the downtube.  The dropper post being a game changing feature that makes trail riding a better overall experience. Internal dropper post routing gives the bike a much cleaner appearance and makes sure the cables are out of harms way.

Lock on Grips Vs Slide on Grips

The Trek Marlin comes stock with lock on grips that should be less prone to slippage on the bars than the slip-on style grips on the Cannondale. This will bear itself out overtime with general wear and tear but are an easy and cheap upgrade that can be done in just a few minutes.

Cannondale Trail 8 2021

Trek Marlin 5 vs Cannondale Trail 8 Specifications

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As a keen mountain biker of many years, Jason enjoys providing straight forward advice to beginners looking to get started with their new hobby.

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Hop on the best mountain bikes for under $1,000 – Trek, Specialized, and more

Mountain biking can be an expensive hobby, but these affordable trail-ready rides prove that it doesn't have to be.

Mike Richard

As with any adventure sport, getting into mountain biking can be an exhilarating journey, but a pricey one at the same time. Whether you're a beginner mountain biker or an experienced rider, it's important to invest in a good bike because it will ultimately hold up longer and handle better on the trails.

But just because it's important to buy a good mountain bike doesn't mean it has to empty your wallet. These 10 models — all priced under a grand — are among the most affordable bikes worth springing for if you're looking to hit the trails. Whether you're a newb just starting out or a seasoned trail rider, these are the best mountain bikes under $1,000.

REI Co-op DRT 1.1 Bike on a white background.

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike

REI's Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike is a solid trail mountain bike to start out with and is very competitively priced. The aluminum frame is lightweight yet durable, and all of its components are high-quality. The tires are on the smaller side at 27.5 inches. But the 21 available gears and SR Suntour front suspension system combine for a smooth, even ride on just about any rough terrain.

The only drawback is that some assembly is required upon receiving the bike if you opt to have it shipped. Still, this is easily one of the best value mountain bikes under $1,000 on the market right now.

Cannondale Trail 8

Cannondale's Trail 8 Bike is available at a price similar to the REI DRT 1.1. With many similar advantages, such as an aluminum frame and similar tire sizes, though larger sizes of the bike feature 29-inch tires, this mountain-ready bike is quite competitive. Many of the components come from the same vendors, guaranteeing a great build.

The only ways in which the REI Co-op bike wins out is that the Cannondale has slimmer tires that are less suited to gravel and less travel in the suspension system. The fork is just 75 mm compared to the Co-op bike's 100 mm. So if you take major drops, the ride might not be as smooth. But, with a sub-$500 sale price, this is another incredible value mountain bike, especially one branded with the legendary Cannondale name.

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Giant 2021 ATX

The Giant 2021 ATX mountain bike is ideal for those looking dip their toe in the off-road waters. The mountain bike-style ride is equipped with an aluminum frame and 26-inch to 27.5-inch tires, depending on your bike size.

This two-wheeler is great as a commuter though its suspension fork allows you to venture onto light off-road rides on gravel, dirt paths, or easy trails, too. Integrated mounts for racks and fenders also mean you can customize it to suit your needs with additional safety and cargo options.

Giant Talon 2 (2022)

Another solid option in Giant's lineup of just-right bikes, the latest Talon 2 (2022) is a good choice for intermediate riders and beginners looking to "level up." With an aluminum alloy frameset that rolls on either 27.5- or 29-inch tires, it provides a ride that balances comfort and liveliness.

The suspension fork offers between 80-100 mm of travel, depending on the size you choose, allowing you to dial in your preferred ride style. The best part? At a little over $700 (including professional assembly), it's an extremely high-quality bike at a very reasonable price point.

Giant Talon 1 (2022)

This "big brother" to the Talon 2 (2022) is the flagship mountain bike in Giant's latest Talon lineup. It offers many of the same specs, including 27.5 to 29-inch wheels and a plush suspension with up to 100 mm of travel.

But it adds premium features like caged pedals, a better fork, wider, 2.4-inch tires, and a seriously upgraded drivetrain that more experienced riders will appreciate. At around $900, this might be this year's single best mountain bike under $1,000.

Specialized Rockhopper Comp

At exactly a grand, technically Specialized's Rockhopper Comp doesn't qualify as a sub-$1,000 mountain bike, but hear us out: It has everything you want in a dream mountain bike and nothing you don't. From the premium A1 aluminum frame to the SR SunTour XCM fork, this is a bike built for screaming down singletracks.

Outfitted with Shimano hydraulic brakes and a MicroSHIFT 1x9 drivetrain, this bike will handle beautifully and give you everything you need to conquer steep climbs while confidently tackling steep descents. Plus, it's pretty damn handsome to boot.

Trek Marlin 7 (Gen 2)

The final mountain bike in Trek's Marlin lineup of picks is the Marlin 7 (Gen 2) and is perfect for more advanced mountain bikers. It's a powerful bike for those who are still learning the ropes though, too.

The latest-gen Marlin 7 is designed to keep up with high-end racing bikes, thanks to additionally upgraded components and a RockShox suspension fork. The wide range of gears enables you to keep up whether you're hitting big trails or major cross-country rides or races. If, on the off-chance, you just can't let go of this bike to swap to a commuter, it's also outfitted with a rear rack so you can take it (and your belongings) anywhere you go.

Giant STP 26 SS (2021)

The Giant STP 26 SS is a great mountain bike for catching some air, be it on pavement or dirt. It tackles both with aplomb. The lightweight aluminum frame is durable and handles well thanks to the 26-inch wheels that are incredibly responsive. With a top-notch, 120 mm suspension fork and 14t cassette, you can ride confidently anywhere you go. This one is technically on the other side $1,000, but it's just above it, and who's counting?

Trek Marlin 5 (Gen 2)

The latest generation Trek Marlin 5 is an exceptional value because it's a do-it-all two-wheeler — a mountain bike perfect for anyone who wants a versatile ride that can also handle light to moderate trails. It's built with an aluminum frame, a suspension fork for a smooth ride, and a 2x8 drivetrain.

Though it's at home on the trails, the Marlin 5 also comes with a kickstand mount and a rack mount so you can use it as a good commuter bike for transporting light cargo, too. At this price point, it's a hard entry-level bike to pass up.

Trek Marlin 6 (Gen 2)

Another great option in Trek's second-generation Marlin lineup, the mid-range Marlin 6 (Gen 2) mountain bike has the upgrades you need to take on more serious trails, even if you are mostly using it to commute.

The Marlin 6 has thicker rims, upgraded disc brakes, and a few more gears, thanks to the beefier 11x46 cassette. That means you'll be able to tackle climbs and fly down the descents more easily. The suspension fork helps smooth out the ride, too, even if it's just for taking groceries home, thanks to the kickstand and rack mounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

When purchasing a mountain bike, it's important that you consider the weight, which comes into account with your riding style, terrain, and goals.

For example, when you're climbing, a lighter bike is generally easier to get up hills with, as you need to exert less energy to overcome gravity. A lighter mountain bike also accelerates faster, making it advantageous for quick bursts of speed and technical sections. On the other hand, while weight can affect handling slightly, it's less crucial downhill. A heavier bike can even offer some stability on rough terrain.

Regarding your riding style – if you prioritize climbing and technical riding, a lighter mountain bike might be more beneficial. For downhill and enduro, weight becomes less critical, and other factors like suspension travel and frame geometry take precedence. If you ride flat or rolling terrain, weight is less of a concern. However, for hilly or mountainous areas, a lighter bike can significantly improve your riding experience.

Like almost any outdoor adventure sport — recreational scuba diving and alpine trekking come to mind — mountain biking can be an expensive hobby. Decent mountain bikes vary widely in price, from around $500 up to as much as a used Toyota Corolla for a high-end carbon fiber model. That doesn't even include all the fancy gear and accessories you'll no doubt be shopping for, too. But, if you know where to look and potentially cut corners (especially if you're a newbie rider), it is possible to score a solid mountain bike for under $1,000.

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It’s hard to believe after the neverending winter most of the country experienced, but we just finally (finally!) marked the official beginning of spring here in the northern hemisphere. That also means the start of the outdoor season (unless you’re the sort of masochist who relishes hiking, kayaking, cycling, and the like in sub-zero temperatures). What's wrong with you?

Whatever brand of adventuring you're into, you no doubt have plenty of gear to tote on your upcoming excursions. That means you need a way to transport all that gear safely and, if you're a cyclist, you need a way to transport your two-wheeler from the garage to the trail. From hitch-mounted bike racks to specialized e-bike racks to more traditional roof-based alternatives, here are the best bike racks worth buying in 2023.

This is an excellent time  to shop for electric bike deals. Most brands are having outstanding sales, perhaps because inventories have begun to load up. The selection of e-bikes has risen rapidly in the last three years. You can find great e-bike deals quite easily today. The best approach is to be sure you consider both the price and the best use of any electric bike deals. In the following sections, we include today's best e-bike deals and how to find the best electric bikes for every kind of ride. Best Cheap Electric Bike Deals

How to Choose an Electric Bike It's not hard to find good deals on electric bikes. However, you need to be careful about the type of and design purpose of any e-bike. There are now electric bikes for such a wide range of purposes that you want to be sure you select an e-bike that's both a good deal and appropriate for your intended use.

Best bike select

Is Cannondale Trail 8 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Trail 8 Review]

Table of Contents

We have reviewed the Cannondale Trail 8.

  • Price : $645
  • Frame : SmartForm C3 Alloy
  • Tires : 29×2.25”
  • Type : Hardtail Mountain Bike

What we like about it: A   75mm travel fork with a wide microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain that puts every dollar you spend on the knife edge.

What we don’t like   about it : The relatively small selection of paint colors.

Rating (4.6/5)

Cannondale Trail 8

Introduction

For the beginner mountain biker on a tight budget, this Cannondale Trail 8 might be the one for you. You know, as trail riding enthusiasts, we always have high enough standards for trail bike performance. So when we first saw the $645 hardtail bike, we weren’t expecting much. But we didn’t expect to be wowed by its performance in the actual ride review.

Whether it’s the lightweight and durable SmartForm C3 Alloy frame or the microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain, it not only has flexible handling when riding off-road but also has relatively abundant shifting.

Yes, the Cannondale Trail 8 is affordable and the components have undeniable durability. But for tough off-road terrain, it is not enough to last you for long.

Next, we break down the climbs, gravel rides, key features, components, and specs of the Cannondale Trail 8 and other versions.

If you want to know more about the bicycle story, follow us.

Cannondale Trail 8 Climbing Review

Being a hardtail bike, it’s best at climbing. Based on our pre-knowledge of the bike, we didn’t choose a relatively extreme off-road route, but a more common country dirt trail. It’s an upward climbing trail, hidden among some trees and shrubs, with gravel and small dirt clods everywhere and some raised roots. Cannondale is a solid brand, and this bike lives up to its reputation.

On our actual climbs, it wasn’t as strenuous as we thought it would be, as the microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain gave us a wider range of speed options. While Shimano gearing is more powerful than Microshift, the idea of microSHIFT is to provide an affordable alternative to the big brands. This bike certainly achieves that goal. And with variable tire sizes (27.5” or 29”), both smaller and taller riders can have a better riding experience.

Of course, I prefer the more controllable 27.5” tires, which allow me to gain easier control when facing upward climbs. And the tightly designed center knob also allowed me to get a better grip on upward rides. I have to say that this bike’s ground saddle is relatively stiff. I hope it can be improved in this aspect for me who is looking for comfort.

Cannondale Trail 8 Descending Review

Being an inexpensive hardtail bike, I didn’t expect it to surprise me on the downhill terrain, but the facts made me decide to retract my opinion. The descent here had more turns, and the bike’s standard mountain bike head tube angle (68°) allowed me to race the wind when facing the descent. And the relatively short trail allowed me to be more responsive in the corners.

On bumpy high-speed descents, the seemingly short 75mm fork travel had me a little worried that I might take a bigger hit. However, on this gravel descent route, it was perfectly manageable and it could easily jump even when encountering some dirt puddles. And the relatively sensitive SR Suntour M3030 fork can effectively rebound compression, reducing vibration.

Even with what many consider mechanical disc brakes, on my ride it felt no different than what I experienced on my Trek Marlin 5 which has hydraulic disc brakes, equally responsive and powerful. And when I pressed the brakes in an emergency, the Tektro cable-actuated mechanical disc brake exerted a powerful braking force, bringing me to a steady and precise stop.

Main Features

Cannondale Trail 8

What you see is a simple body with grey and highlighter paint. Both of these paint colors have their characteristics. Secondly, the SmartForm C3 Alloy frame has a light enough body and is strong and durable.

Also, you may notice that the bike surprisingly leaves the rear brake cable exposed on the outside of the frame. Honestly, this is my complaint about it as well. Although there is a firm control at the top tube can make the body look relatively tidy. However, the chainstay and lift cables are neatly routed through StraightShot openings in the downtube, housing the important cables inside the tube and effectively increasing its longevity. And it also prevents too many control cables from being exposed to the outside which might cause tangling. In addition, its two water bottle mounting holes are designed to allow you to bring plenty of water for your long trips.

Concerning geometry, this Cannondale Trail 8 is designed to be mature, in line with the nature of mountain bikes, and to fit the characteristics of beginner mountain bikers.

First of all, the slack 68° head tube angle makes it easier for you to go downhill and you won’t feel safe enough by going too fast. Secondly, the steep 73.5° seat tube angle allows you to pedal more easily on actual rides, and you can stay comfortably upright even on long rides. It’s worth mentioning that the smallest frame is equipped with 27.5” tires, which allows smaller riders to get more agile handling. And the relatively larger frame is equipped with 29” tires, which allows taller riders to have faster speeds. In addition, the standard five-way height of 29.3cm (XS/SM) will put you in an effective position whether you’re facing the flat ground or raised hills, and won’t cut into the pedals due to changes in terrain.

All in all, the Cannondale Trail 8’s proper geometry allows beginners to both level up in the mountains and enjoy the ride on the commute.

Components and Specifications

Microshift m26l 2×7 drivetrain.

Cannondale Trail 8 MicroSHIFT M26L 2×7 Drivetrain

The Cannondale Trail 8 has a 2×7 shifting range. Some may think the 2× shifting is too complicated, but you’ll have more fun riding on trails and gravel roads with a simple push of the controller to shift instead.

Similarly, 14 different speeds enable you to choose the right gear ratio on different terrains. Therefore you can save a lot of energy and can hold on to the ride for a longer time.

In addition, the weight of only 294g does not put much burden on the ride at all, and the sturdy steel and composite construction make it last longer than similar products.

Tektro Cable-Actuated Mechanical Disc Brake

Cannondale Trail 8 Mechanical Disc Brake

The Cannondale Trail 8 uses mechanical disc brakes. Some people would prefer hydraulic discs and feel that mechanical discs are not strong enough for braking. But, to examine its braking ability, we deliberately found a time after the rain and went to a muddy trail in the nearby mountains for a ride test. The stable braking ability of this mechanical disc brake is a pleasant surprise on such slippery ground. Also, its relatively low maintenance cost is one of its features.

WTB Ranger Comp Tires

The material of this tire is rubber, which has relatively strong wear resistance. And the orderly arrangement of aramid beads on the tire can also grip the ground well without slipping in the face of sharp turns.

Secondly, the tubeless compatible design allows you to switch to a suitable vacuum tire. Not only does it have better puncture resistance, but it’s lighter, which is good enough for you to climb or descend on.

SR Suntour M3030 Front Fork

Cannondale Trail 8 SR Suntour M3030 Front Fork

The Cannondale Trail 8 is equipped with a fork that is a feature-rich, affordable front suspension option.

First of all, the alloy SR Suntour M3030 is more robust and it can accompany you for longer rides. Although some people think that its heavier weight may affect the efficiency of riding. But in our actual review, I didn’t feel that way.

The seemingly short 75mm of travel may cause you to worry about its damping effect. But for the novice mountain rider, this is enough to ensure that you get comfortable riding while gradually getting familiar with the bumps. So you can take on tougher terrain later on in the upgrade.

Other versions of the Cannondale Trail 8

In this review, we have examined the Cannondale Trail 8’s SmartForm C3 aluminum frame, microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain, Tektro cable-actuated mechanical disc brake, and SR Suntour M3030 shock fork, among other components. To give you a better idea, we have found different versions of the same series.

In the series Cannondale Trail 8, there are two different versions, Cannondale Trail 8 and Cannondale Trail women’s 8.

Cannondale Trail 8

The Cannondale Trail 8 is exclusively for men, with a clean and handsome body, available in grey and Highlighter colors. It comes in five sizes, covering most people’s heights.

It uses Cannondale Stage 3 for the saddle, which has plenty of support. But for me, long rides can make my butt stiff. But for riders who focus on pedaling on the pedals, it’s a no-brainer.

Cannondale Trail women’s 8

Cannondale Trail women's 8

This bike is for ladies and has an elegant and beautiful body. Compared to the straight top tube of the men’s bike, the top tube of the women’s bike has a little downward curve. This is a very thoughtful design.

Not only does it look more in line with the curves of women, but also easier for women to get on and off the car. And the car paint is also available in two colors, namely Sage Gray and Turquoise, with their style.

In addition, its saddle is made of Cannondale Stage 2 Women’s, which has soft padding and a relatively soft package with enough support.

On an actual ride, it’s so comfortable that I would not want to get off this bike.

What we like about it

  • The SmartForm C3 aluminum frame is durable and lightweight, making it relatively easy to lift.
  • The SR Suntour M3030 shock fork with 75mm travel guarantees you a comfortable riding experience.
  • The microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain with dual sprocket cranks and an abundance of interesting shifts allows you to better adapt to all kinds of terrain.
  • Tektro cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes are fast and responsive to keep you safe.
  • Affordable hardtail mountain bikes will satisfy you in terms of price.

What we don’t like about it

  • With only two colors, it may not meet the diverse needs of people.
  • Some people feel that fork travel is too short. (But as long as it is not in harsh terrain, the rest of the general terrain is also enough)
  • What is the frame material of Cannondale Trail 8?

The frame material of Cannondale Trail 8 is the SmartForm C3 aluminum frame.

  • What is the drivetrain of the Cannondale Trail 8?

The Cannondale Trail 8’s drivetrain is the microSHIFT M26L 2×7 drivetrain.

  • What is the braking system of Cannondale Trail 8?

The Cannondale Trail 8’s braking system is Tektro cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes.

Cannondale Trail 8 Sizing Chart

Cannondale trail 8 specs.

Comparison Table

Cannondale trail 8 vs trek marlin 5 gen 2.

2023 Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

The Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 and Cannondale Trail 8 are both hardtail bikes with aluminum frames. The former is priced at $739.99 while the latter is only $645. Moreover, the Cannondale Trail 8’s tires are 0.05″ wider than the former. The Cannondale Trail 8 has 0.05″ wider tires, which makes it more stable in real-world riding experience.

Second, the Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 has a 2×8 drivetrain, two more speeds than the Cannondale Trail 8’s 2×7. If you are new to off-roading, the 2×7 speed range is perfectly adequate.

If you notice the brakes, you will notice that the Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 uses Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic discs. While the hydraulic disc is a more advanced brake and sensitive in terms of braking performance, there is no denying that it can be relatively expensive in terms of price and subsequent maintenance.

For newcomers on a lower budget and just for transition, the Cannondale Trail 8’s mechanical disc brakes are a worthwhile option both in terms of braking performance and subsequent maintenance costs.

learn more: Is Trek Marlin 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 5 Review]

Cannondale Trail 8 vs Marin Wildcat Trail 2

2023 Marin Wildcat Trail 2

The Marin Wildcat Trail 2 is designed for women, priced at $599, with a slightly downward-facing top tube for easy boarding and alighting. The two paint colors are also more in line with most women’s aesthetics.

The Cannondale Trail 8 has a relatively high standover height, but it also takes into account a wider range of rider heights. The smaller size has more flexible 27.5” tires, while the larger size uses more efficient 29” tires. Regardless of your height, you will always be able to choose the right bike for you.

Although both bikes are aluminum frames, the Marin Wildcat Trail 2 uses a Series 1 6061 Aluminum frame, while the Cannondale Trail 8 uses a SmartForm C3 Alloy frame. So the more advanced technology makes the SmartForm C3 Alloy cheaper and longer lasting.

Learn more : Is Marin Bolinas Ridge 1 A Perfect Selection? – [Marin Bolinas Ridge 1 Review]

Cannondale Trail 8 vs Giant Talon 2

2022 Giant Talon 2

The body is made of Giant Talon 2 in ALUXX-Grade Aluminum, a material that is both strong and lightweight, as is the SmartForm C3 Alloy of the Cannondale Trail 8.

If you’re looking for a quicker and easier shift, the Giant Talon 2 with its microSHIFT Advent M6195M 1×9 drivetrain might be the one for you. Of course, if you’re looking for more speed, you can go with the Cannondale Trail 8, which has a wider range of gears.

In addition, the Giant Talon 2 was measured at an average speed of 24 mph, while the Cannondale Trail 8 was faster at an average speed of 28 mph. If you want more speed, you can try the Cannondale Trail 8.

Cannondale Trail 8 vs Liv Tempt 3

2022 Liv Tempt 3

The Liv Tempt 3 is a hardtail bike that comes in two paint colors and retails for $799. The Cannondale Trail 8 is considerably more affordable in comparison.

If you notice the tires, you will see that the Liv Tempt 3 has Kenda Booster tires available in two sizes. The tires also have a tread pattern that increases friction. But the Cannondale Trail 8’s WTB Ranger Comp tires are also available in two sizes, and at 2.25″ wide they are more stable and have more grip than the former.

The Liv Tempt 3 saddle Liv Sport is quite comfortable to use. But in real-world riding, I felt that the Cannondale Trail 8 saddle Cannondale Stage 3 was superior. In addition, during the actual ride, I noticed that the Cannondale Trail 8 has a non-slip pattern on the Cannondale Dual-Density grip. This design not only feels more comfortable to hold but also makes it easier for you to control your bike.

In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!

Learn more : Is Liv Tempt 2 The Perfect Choice? – [Liv Tempt 2 Review]

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Best Mountain Bikes Under $1,000

For first-time and long-time riders alike, we break down the more affordable end of the mountain bike spectrum.

Mountain bike under $1,000 (riding through the forest)

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Not everyone needs a high-end mountain bike that breaks the bank. If you are new to the sport, ride infrequently, or prefer easier trails with few major obstacles, cheaper bikes offer plenty of performance. Following a significant industry shift in wheel sizes, most budget bikes share a common formula: 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels, suspension up front, and an aluminum frame. The good news is that there are plenty of suitable options in the sub-$1,000 price range, and below are our favorites for 2023. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

1. Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2 ($999)

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2 mountain bike

REI’s Co-op Cycles (formerly Novara) offers a pretty complete lineup of hardtail mountain bikes with wallet-friendly prices and good feature sets. Sneaking just under our $1,000 cap is the brand’s versatile DRT 1.2. This bike is a great option for beginner- and intermediate-level riders with stable and grippy 2.4-inch-wide tires, thru-axles for added stiffness, and a solid 120 millimeters of front suspension (20mm more than most options on this list). And for those that spend time on smooth gravel roads or bike paths, a lockout on the fork is a nice touch. Adding to the value equation, the DRT 1.2 includes premium features like internal cable routing for a clean look, plus it’s set up to accommodate a dropper post (not included, but you can add one later on).

At over 32 pounds, the DRT 1.2 isn’t as nimble or speedy as some of the more XC-focused models on this list (including the Specialized Rockhopper below). In addition, the 2 x 9 drivetrain is fairly dated—many new models have dropped the front derailleur in favor of a lighter and simpler 1X setup—but the Shimano design shifts smoothly and has a sufficiently wide range for tackling hilly terrain. Overall, it’s not a particularly fast or twitchy bike, but it checks the right boxes as a first “real” mountain bike for light trail use, and it doesn’t hurt that the DRT comes with the security of REI’s excellent warranty. For a truly entry-level option, see their $599 DRT 1.1 below. See the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2

2. Cannondale Trail 5 ($960)

Cannondale Trail 5 mountain bike

The big recent news from Cannondale is their growing e-bike collection, but there’s a lot to like with their budget-friendly Trail line. The “5” comes in at $960 and has been recently modernized with a longer and slacker geometry. Outfitted with a 1 x 10 Microshift drivetrain, trusty hydraulic disc brakes, and sharp looks—internal cable routing keeps things clean—and you have a strong all-around machine. Additionally, the size small and extra-small frames come with 27.5-inch wheels rather than 29-inch wheels, making the Trail 5 a viable option for shorter riders. It’s not as planted as the DRT 1.2 above (or San Quentin below), but the Trail 5 is a good option for recreational riders or those just starting out.

At its full $960 MSRP, the Trail 5 is a direct competitor to the popular Giant Talon below. Both pack similar component groups and aren’t too far off from a geometry perspective either. It’s a very close call between the two, but the Cannondale gets the edge in gear range (a plus for steeper climbs) and availability (Cannondale is sold through REI, while Giant is more hit and miss nationwide), and price (the Trail is discounted by 20% at the time of publishing). But realistically, both are solid values and fine options at this price point... Read in-depth review See the Cannondale Trail 5   See the Women's Cannondale Trail 5

3. Marin San Quentin 1 ($999)

Marin San Quentin 1 mountain bike_0

Most mountain bikes under $1,000 have pretty conservative designs that are primarily focused on mixed on- and off-road use. But Marin’s San Quentin breaks from the mold with an aggressive build and geometry that’s reminiscent of a bike costing two or three times as much. The standout feature is its very slack 64-degree head angle, which makes it easily the most comfortable bike on this list for descending steep trails. Combined with meaty 2.6-inch-wide tires, wide handlebars that improve control, front thru-axle, and a front suspension fork with 130 millimeters of squish, and you have the blueprint for a capable yet affordable hardtail.

What’s pushes the San Quentin a little down our rankings? The primary culprit is its climbing ability. The slacker geometry and wide tires make it less comfortable for pedal-heavy stretches, and the bike can feel pretty long as you’re climbing up steep sections. Plus, the aggressive setup takes away a little of the fast and twitchy feel that many like in a hardtail on rolling terrain. All that said, if you’re looking for a longer-term investment that won’t hold you back on rowdy terrain, the burly San Quentin is well worth a look. See the Marin San Quentin 1

4. Giant Talon 1 ($900)

Giant Talon 1 mountain bike_0

As with Co-op Cycles, we’ve found that Giant consistently produces quality bikes at very competitive prices, and their Talon 1 is a strong example. To start, the Talon features a Shimano Deore 1 x 10 drivetrain—something few bikes are able to accomplish at under $1,000. And finding quality tires on such an affordable bike is a struggle, but the Talon features the versatile Kenda Booster in a wide, 2.4-inch setup (one downside is that they are not tubeless-compatible). Tack on an air-sprung 100-millimeter travel fork (80mm in smaller sizes) and hydraulic disc brakes from Tektro, and the Giant Talon 1 has a strong appeal for aspiring XC riders on a budget.

Why do we rank the Talon below the DRT? Simply put, the Co-op Cycles design offers just enough performance upgrades. The DRT 1.2 includes thru-axles for better downhill stability, plus it has a longer travel fork (120mm vs. 100mm) and more aggressive tires. For those that dabble in more technical terrain, these are functional add-ons that we think are worth it. On the other hand, as a daily XC driver, the Talon 1 is a very solid option that’s well-equipped for the price. See the Giant Talon 1   See the Women's Liv Tempt 1

5. Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29 ($950)

Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29 mountain bike

Specialized has a stellar reputation in the biking world, with a full catalog of high-end downhill, enduro, and race-oriented XC models. Their legendary Rockhopper line of hardtail bikes ranges in price from $600 to over $1,000, and at the mid-range is the $950 Comp 29. This bike has the high-level build quality and well-executed design that we expect from Specialized, with clean lines and a comfortable geometry. Its 90 or 100 millimeters of travel (depending on the frame size) and fast-rolling 2.35-inch tires are tuned for moderate XC trails and covering ground quickly, but the Rockhopper’s large 29-inch wheels and hydraulic brakes give it decent all-around capabilities.

If you plan to stick to mostly smooth trails and rolling hills, the Rockhopper Comp is a fine choice. But its 9-millimeter quick-release axles mean that it’s lacking in stiffness if the terrain gets more technical. In addition, its coil front fork is a downgrade in adjustability and refinement compared with the air-sprung design that comes with the Giant above. To be fair, these downsides apply mostly to more challenging trail networks, which none of the bikes on our list will truly excel at. And given that the Rockhopper is a classic and proven design, we think it’s a great XC choice if your local terrain isn’t very aggressive. See the Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29

6. Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 ($599)

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 mountain bike

Stepping down in price and performance from the DRT 1.2 above is Co-op Cycle’s entry-level DRT 1.1. This simple bike is nicely tuned for gravel paths and light trail work with a 3 x 7 Shimano drivetrain and a Suntour front fork. The components are a notable downgrade from our top picks, but the bike has a sturdy feel overall that you don’t expect for the price. And nice touches like hydraulic disc brakes and a total of five size options for dialing in the fit make it a standout value at under $600. It helps that availability has been good lately, with two colors and the full range of sizes in stock at the time of publishing.

Considering the cost, it’s not surprising there are a fair number of compromises with the DRT 1.1. First off, you get narrow and fairly cheap tires, which will be out of sorts on wet and slippery trails. In addition, the Suntour coil fork isn’t very adjustable or refined in general. Another thing that sticks out is the sheer heft of the bike—cheap components are very heavy, and they contribute to a sluggish personality. That said, the DRT 1.1 covers the basics for casual riders that want a dependable bike from an established brand. See the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1

  7. Diamondback Line 27.5 ($799)

Diamondback Line 27.5 mountain bike

The Diamondback Line 27.5 is spec’d to impress, with a modern design that’s comfortable in the steeps. We particularly like the bike’s sturdy aluminum frame that’s built to take a beating, and the inclusion of wide, 750-millimeter bars help get you into a comfortable position for both climbing and descending. Tack on a 120-millimeter Suntour fork, hydraulic brakes from Shimano, and even a chain guide to keep you from dropping it in rough sections, and the Line has a strong appeal for aspiring aggressive riders on a budget.

The Line recently took a drop in our rankings, however, because of a couple significant downgrades to the build. For one, Diamondback ditched the stiff thru-axle that we loved on the old version and replaced it with less burly, quick-release hubs. Further, the Vee brand tires can’t match the overall quality and grip from the aggressive WTB rubber on the previous bike. Finally, while the omission of a front derailleur is commonplace for lightweight designs, we think it’s a bit of a stretch here: The 1 x 9 drivetrain requires decent fitness, and its gear ratio is too small. As an all-around trail bike or for cross-country use, we still give the edge to alternatives like the Giant Talon or Co-op Cycles 1.2 above, but the Diamondback Line offers a compelling mix of toughness and price. See the Diamondback Line 27.5

8. Trek Marlin 5 ($740)

Trek Marlin 5 mountain bike_1

With its sleek-looking frame and clean internal cable routing, we think Trek’s Marlin 5 is one of the better-looking cheap bikes here. And while appearances can only get you so far, Trek backed up the bike’s good looks with a number of worthy features. If you use your rig for commuting or touring, the Marlin 5 features rear rack mounts—an uncommon sight among mountain bikes. Plus the Marlin 5 comes in eight different frame sizes (ranging from 26-in. to 29-in. wheel sizes), the smallest three including curved top tubes for a lower standover height and short-reach brake levers, which may appeal to smaller riders. And for 2022, Trek updated to a more modern 2 x 8 Shimano drivetrain. Add it all up, and the Trek Marlin 5 makes for a great mixed-use trail bike or burly commuter.

What do you give up with the budget-friendly Marlin 5? Despite its simple and XC-inspired design, the entry-level build makes it a pretty slow and lazy climber. Additionally, it’s the least comfortable option here on rocky and rooty terrain. You’ll feel the impacts more, and its small 5-millimeter hubs aren’t exactly confidence inspiring (the other options here are 9mm or larger). All told, the Marlin 5 is great for gravel paths and adventurous commutes, but you’ll need to stretch the budget a little more to get something truly trail-worthy. See the Trek Marlin 5   See the Women's Trek Marlin 5

Mountain Bike Comparison Table

Mountain bike buying advice, mountain bike frame materials, mountain bike suspension, wheel size: 27.5 vs. 29er, drivetrain and gears.

  • Unisex vs. Women's-Specific Mountain Bikes

What About Fat Bikes?

What do you get by spending more, buying a mountain bike online.

  • Are Used Mountain Bikes Worth It?  

In the sub-$1,000 price range, there isn’t a lot of variety in frame materials, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. All of the bikes on our list use aluminum, and the reasons are pretty simple: It’s lightweight, affordable, and fairly easy to manufacture. From a performance standpoint, a well-made aluminum bike like the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2 is stiff enough to withstand rough trails and plenty durable to avoid significant damage in an average crash. Compromises in aluminum include ride quality—that stiffness comes with a slightly harsher feel and less bump absorption—and longevity. The welds required to put together an aluminum frame can crack over time, and the material itself fatigues faster than alternatives like steel and carbon fiber (although many aluminum frames last a decade or more).

Mountain Bike Under $1,000 (Cannondale Trail 6 aluminum frame)

Steel is another reasonably affordable frame material that’s well known for its strength and toughness. Compared with aluminum, steel bikes are even longer-lasting and better-equipped to withstand years of rough use. But it comes with a weight penalty and less of a playful and nimble feel, which is why you rarely see it on a budget-oriented mountain bike. Finally, carbon fiber is a common choice among premium bikes and comes with benefits like less weight—typically about a pound less than an equivalent aluminum frame—a cleaner look with no welds, and smoother ride quality. That said, it’s substantially more expensive to manufacture, so you won’t find any options at this low price point (expect to pay $4,000 or more for carbon).

The vast majority of mountain bikes under $1,000 are intended for smooth trails and cross-country-style riding. As a result, their suspension layouts are very similar, with a front fork that offers between 75 and 120 millimeters of travel (a measurement of how much the shock absorbers can compress). These designs are known as “hardtails,” because they only have a front suspension and no cushioning at the rear. In general, you’ll get less travel with a cheaper model, including the $599 Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 (100mm), while spending up for the Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2 or Marin San Quentin 1 gets you more capabilities with a 120- or 130-millimeter fork. It’s worth noting that none of the bikes on our list will be comfortable on a technical or rock-filled descent, but if you plan to explore some moderate singletrack, we advise choosing a bike with at least 100 millimeters of travel.

Mountain Bike Under $1,000 (Cannondale Trail)

If you’re eyeing a model under $1,000 that includes a rear shock (known as a “full-suspension” bike), we recommend giving it some serious thought—or consider upping your budget. There are significant compromises with adding a rear suspension at this price point, including extra weight and downgraded brakes and shifters. For the rear shock itself, the options will be limited to off-brand designs that will disappoint from a performance perspective, with relatively poor rebound control and sluggish pedaling response (not to mention concerns about longevity). As a result, we don’t include any full-suspension bikes in this article (we do, however, in our breakdown of the best mountain bikes under $2,000 ).

The old mountain bike standard, the 26-inch wheel and tire combo, has gone from being commonplace to a rarity in only a few short years. For budget bikes, the transition started with the large 29-inch wheels and has since moved to 27.5-inch. This wholesale shift in the industry can be traced to the improvement in rollover, traction, and stability that these larger tires provide (for more, see our article on 27.5 vs. 29er mountain bikes ).

For 2023, we seem to have stabilized with a mix of 29 and 27.5, and 27.5+ options. Far and away, the most popular choices are the 29 and 27.5-inch bikes, which are a good setup for uphill and downhill fun. The 29er will offer slightly better performance, although you'll want to be sure to keep weight in check. And the same bike with 27.5-inch wheels will be a little easier to turn quickly without giving up too much in terms of rollover ability. Smaller riders may prefer the fit of the 27.5-inch design, and the opposite goes for tall folks on a 29er. As long as you get a proper size, we think both styles are a great match at this $1,000 price point.

Mountain Bikes Under $1,000 (wheel size)

If you’re wanting a nimble and lightweight bike for under $1,000, we recommend keeping it simple: an aluminum frame, front suspension fork, and 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels. The closer you get to $1,000 with this setup, the lighter weight and more responsive the bike will be. On average, these aluminum hardtails will hover around the 30-pound mark. As long as your expectations are reasonable (don’t expect a twitchy, feathery light carbon race bike experience), you can have a whole lot of fun with a mid-range hardtail.

If you’re trying to pin down an exact weight to compare bikes like-for-like, we’re here to warn you it can be a challenge. Some manufacturers don’t list the information at all, while others will provide a weight but few other details—such as what frame size is being weighed or whether or not pedals are on the bike. REI Co-op does provide a median weight for some bikes in their online specs, but it’s still not consistently reported to really use as a basis for comparison. It’s important to understand that within a narrow price range like $800 to $1,000, bikes with similar frame designs, suspension, and components will not vary by more than a couple pounds.

Mountain Bikes Under $1,000 (riding)

As the price goes down, the weight of the bike inevitably will go up. Everything from the crankset and drivetrain to handlebar and seat post gets heavier. And if you elect for a full-suspension bike at this price point, you can expect a pretty hefty bike. While it will undoubtedly be lighter than a bike made 5 to 10 years ago, the rear shock and linkage all add precious pounds to the bottom line (yet another reason we don't include any full-suspension designs on this list).  

At first glance, it may appear that having more gears is a good thing—27 is better than 20, right? But that 27-gear (3 in the front, 9 in the rear) ride is actually far less intuitive to use. On the trail, you need crisp shifts to react to ascents and descents, and swapping from the big to small chain ring in the front is a real time killer—not to mention a lot of excess weight and complexity. If you can find a 1 x 10 or 2 x 9 bike for under $1,000, that’s a good fit for all-mountain riding.

The occasional budget bike will have a 1X drivetrain with 8 or 9 gears, which is certainly functional for a lot of uses. But that few gears, even with a decently large spread, won’t cut it for longer rides with reasonably steep climbs and descents. In those cases, we prefer a 2 x 9 for more versatility. Eventually, we will kiss the front derailleur goodbye (like we already have at the mid- and high-ends of the market), but we predict that technology is still a little ways off to completely take over the sub-$1,000 bike market.

Mountain bikes under %241k (drivetrain on Giant Talon 1)

One of the most notable improvements for bikes in the sub-$1,000 price range in recent years is the inclusion of disc brakes. As technology has trickled down from more high-level products and manufacturing processes have been simplified, mechanically-operated rim brakes are becoming a thing of the past. Disc brakes offer considerably more stopping power, which is especially important when riding in muddy and wet conditions. There’s nothing worse than grabbing a handful of brake on technical singletrack only to find yourself squealing to a slow stop. But this isn’t just handy for those “oh crap” situations—in general, disc brakes require less effort to use, allowing riders to focus on the trail ahead instead of the brakes themselves. You’ll still find rim brakes on some cheap hardtails, but Co-op Cycles $599 DRT 1.1 proves decent quality disc brakes can come standard on even the most budget models.  

Unisex vs. Women’s-Specific Mountain Bikes

Most budget-oriented mountain bikes are made in a unisex style, while some include a women’s-specific variation. Common changes include a tweaked frame design with a lower standover height, which makes it easier for those with shorter inseams to mount and dismount. In addition, you’ll find women’s-specific saddles, narrower bars, and sometimes smaller-diameter grips. And finally, colorways will differ, and the frame size options will typically be on the small end of the spectrum. From a performance standpoint, they’ll share all the major components and general on-trail feel with the unisex version—at much higher price points you’ll find more advanced changes like retuned suspensions—but the tweaks to the fit and geometry can be a benefit for some female riders.  

When they were released to the mass market, few could have predicted the rise of the super wide tire bike. At a time when your typical mountain bike tire was around 2 inches wide, these 4- to 5-inch wide balloons looked downright hilarious. What was even more surprising was how fun the bikes were on the trail. The large tires had seemingly endless amounts of grip and absorbed rough trails with ease. Further, they opened up snowy paths for year-round fun, which has made them extremely popular throughout the country, and in the Midwest in particular.

If you’re looking for a casual mountain bike to ride around on occasion and aren’t interested in the absolute fastest thing around, a fat bike is a fun option. But as our only mountain bike, we’re less inclined to say it’s the be-all and end-all answer. The large tires are heavy and dampen some of the enjoyment we get when charging down a stretch of singletrack on a more nimble bike, and it’s the same story lugging a fat bike up a long climb. But fat bikes are unmatched whenever extra flotation or grip is the priority, and particularly when the terrain isn’t too steep.  

As a first bike or if you’re unsure about how committed you are to the sport, an option under $1,000 makes a whole lot of sense. But if you’re thinking about making a long-term purchase or live in an area that is low on smooth and easy trails—such as the rocky, muddy, and root-filled Pacific Northwest—it may be worth stretching the budget a little to get a more capable steed.

Mountain Bikes Under %241%2C000 (technical terrain)

As we cover in our mountain bikes under $2,000 review, spending that extra $500 to $1,000 does bring a good bump in quality and performance. For one, you get a much wider selection of full-suspension bikes, which are great for tackling technical terrain at speed. Additionally, weight is less of an issue, although you still aren’t seeing anything made with lightweight carbon fiber just yet. And finally, all components are of a higher quality, which translates to not just increased trail performance but also durability and lifespan. For a wider look at the market, see our article on how much to spend on a mountain bike .  

If you’ve been paying attention to the bike industry for the last few years, you’ll have noticed a shift in how bikes are being sold. Many big mountain bike brands like Diamondback, Trek, and Giant now offer online checkout options, and large retailers like REI and Backcountry provide similar services for myriad other brands. While we love the idea of buying a bike online for its low-pressure atmosphere and convenience, we think it’s important to consider a number of factors first. For example: does the bike come assembled? Will I have to pay an oversize shipping fee? What happens if something is broken? And most importantly: how do I know if the bike fits me?

One of the first hurdles to buying online is getting the correct size. While nothing beats throwing a leg over a bike in person, companies almost always provide a size chart online that can be pretty reliable for nailing the right fit. Competitive Cyclist takes it one step further with their online fit calculator , which can be an invaluable resource. And if you currently own a bike, take note of how it fits and use that information for your next purchase. All told, the resources are there for you to get a well-sized bike without “trying it on.”

Mountain bikes under %241k (riding in Moab)

Once you receive the bike on your doorstep, it will require some assembly out of the box. The majority of companies include a few basic tools, but you still need a fair bit of skill and knowledge to safely put your new toy together. If DIY isn’t your forté, many bike shops offer build services, and online programs like Diamondback’s Ready Ride provide stellar customer service and tutorials. And at the other end of the spectrum are companies like REI, which allow you to purchase online and pick up in-store—this may be the best of both worlds as you can ensure a proper fit before taking the bike home. All in all, buying online is not as nerve-wracking as it might seem—just make sure you take the time to do the research, find the right fit, and finally, hedge your bets by purchasing from a reputable retailer with a good return policy.  

Are Used Mountain Bikes Worth It?

During the research process, there’s a very good chance you’ll consider and possibly start looking into purchasing a used bike. The benefits are fairly clear: Like a car, bikes start losing their value almost immediately, so you can save a good amount of money going this route (or get better components for the same price as new). In addition, shopping used cuts down on waste, and there are a number of ways to safeguard your purchase. The simplest is buying a former rental fleet model from a local shop. This gets you the assurance that the bike has been professionally maintained and serviced, and you’ll have a good idea of its history. It’s true rental bikes can be subjected to rough treatment, but you’ll often get a warranty with your purchase, as well as the comfort in knowing you can go back into the shop if questions or issues come up.

If you’re searching online marketplaces like Craigslist, Pinkbike’s BuySell, or Facebook, there are some important things to consider. First, we advise choosing a relatively new bike to maximize lifespan (aluminum frames fatigue over time) and ensure you get modern components like disc brakes and updated geometry. In addition, it’s best to look at the bike in-person to avoid purchasing an unmaintained money pit. If you’re mechanically inclined and familiar with bikes, you can check the frame for cracks and verify the condition of components like the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and tires. These are very important to inspect as a cracked frame will make the bike unrideable, and replacing items like a front suspension fork can cost hundreds of dollars. If you’re uncomfortable giving this final check, most repair shops will take a look for a nominal fee. In the end, buying used involves a number of extra considerations, but if you’re willing to put in the effort and take on some risk, it’s a nice way to save. Back to Our Top Mountain Bike Picks   Back to Our Mountain Bike Comparison Table

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The 14 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes For Ripping Trails and High-Performance

Whether you want a lightweight cross-country rocket or a cheap trail ripper, one of these picks will work for you.

See our top picks below and scroll deeper for more in-depth reviews of these bikes, as well as helpful buying tips and advice.

Looking for more riding options? Check out our picks for the best electric bikes , folding e-bikes , and commuter bikes .

The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

  • Best Overall: Trek Roscoe 7
  • Lightweight and Balanced: Specialized Rockhopper Elite
  • Best Hardtail Deal: Salsa Rangefinder Deore 29
  • Best Kids: Specialized Riprock 24
  • Best Aggressive Trail: Vitus Sentier 29
  • Best Cheap: Polygon Premier 4
  • Best Value: Giant Talon 29 1
  • Best Beginner Women’s Hardtail: Liv Tempt 2
  • Best for Heavy Riders: Zize Bikes Yonder
  • Best Throwback Style: Marin Team Marin 2
  • Best E-Bike: Orbea Urrun 30
  • Best Lightweight: Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 3
  • Best Race Bike: Cervélo ZHT-5 GX AXS
  • Best Canadian-Made: Chromag Primer

What to Consider

If you are looking for the best high-performance mountain bikes (full suspension and hardtail, electric and analog), check out our Bike Awards coverage. You’ll find 11 exceptional, award-winning bikes rigorously vetted by our editorial team.

If you’re looking for an efficient race machine, a carbon fiber hardtail might be the bike for you. Hardtails also make great adventure bikes for bikepacking off-road and other long-distance riding shenanigans. Build a hardtail with a longer-travel fork and wide tires and you’ll have a fun ripper for romping around your local trails —and you’ll save money and weight compared to many full-suspension options.

For decades, hardtails have appealed to riders due to the infinite ways you can build them up and for their simplicity. Here’s what you need to know about hardtail mountain bikes.

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You almost always get more bang for your buck with a hardtail. The design allows manufacturers to either reduce the bike’s overall price or include better components than you would find on comparably priced full-suspension rigs.

Hardtail frames lack rear shocks, pivots, linkages, and the associated hardware. Thus, they are generally lighter than comparable full-suspension frames. For riders who climb a lot, the weight saving can make a difference—both physically and mentally. Carbon fiber frames have the best strength-to-weight ratio of any material but are typically more expensive than metal-framed bikes. Despite this, there are desirable characteristics in all frame materials.

Wheel Sizes

Hardtails come in many wheel sizes and gearing options. You’ll find wheel sizes of 29- or 27.5-inches, standard tire widths (up to 2.6-inches), plus-size (2.8- to 3.0-inches), and fat tires (3-inches and wider). Some hardtails will accept different wheel and tire sizes, allowing you to swap out options to suit your riding needs.

Great for Kids and Tweens

The explosive growth of youth cycling programs and NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) racing got a ton of kids onto the trail and needing mountain bikes. With their combination of lightweight, lower cost, and wheel size options, hardtails make ideal bikes for young riders starting out or teens who quickly outgrow bikes.

Maintenance and Durability

Fewer moving parts mean fewer things that could potentially go wrong. And higher-quality parts mean those parts are less likely to need fixing. The simplicity of not having a rear shock and rear suspension system increases the durability of the bike as it requires less maintenance and fewer replacement parts.

Ride Quality

A hardtail can feel more responsive than a dual-suspension bike when pedaling. The lack of rear suspension creates a more efficient-feeling pedaling platform, so acceleration feels more immediate. Climbers, especially, appreciate the extra responsiveness. Though, you lose some traction (especially under braking) without the rear suspension. Still, for a fast, brutally efficient ride, nothing beats a hardtail.

Hardtail Testing

Find the Right Fork

After the frame, the fork is arguably the most important part of a hardtail's build kit. You’ll find suspension forks with as little as 80mm of travel on some cross-country bikes while trail or all-mountain hardtails may have forks with 140mm of travel or more. Some hardtails still use forks that lack any suspension. These rigid forks are typically the lightest weight and require no maintenance.

Build One Up

Hardtails also make an excellent second, third—or tenth, or twelfth—bike to have around to loan to friends, for when your primary bike is in the shop, or for dabbling into other areas of riding. Many brands (particularly small or mid-sized) offer frame-only options that you can build up on your own or with the help of your local shop. Perhaps you have some old parts kicking around and collecting dust: Hardtails are a simple and cost-effective way to put those parts to use!

How We Tested

Many of these bikes were tested by our team of gear editors. We mapped out rides featuring most of the trail elements that you’ll likely encounter. We pushed these bikes hard on flow trails, up steep climbs, down pucker-worthy rocky descents, and through rock gardens. Our editors rode these bikes on the terrain best suited for each bike, as well as terrain entirely unsuitable, to see how far we could push the limits.

The bikes that weren’t ridden by Bicycling ’s editors were carefully chosen based on their value, quality of parts, our experience riding similar models, and how the overall package meets the needs of the intended rider.

Trek Roscoe 7

Roscoe 7

There is so much to love about this bike, it’s hard to decide where to start. The 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain (with a 30T chainring and 10-51T cassette) provides a massive range, with gearing low enough to ease the pain of climbing steep hills. Its 29-inch wheels (27.5” on XS size) carry speed while maintaining maneuverability on technical trails and the 2.6-inch tubeless-ready tires offer great traction and a plush ride. The 140mm travel RockShox Recon SL SoloAir fork has plenty of travel for getting rowdy and can be locked out for added efficiency, such as when climbing a paved road. And speaking of rowdy, a dropper post is a very cool addition and adds to the Roscoe's versatility.

Specialized Rockhopper Elite 29

Rockhopper Elite 29

The Rockhopper has been a mainstay of Specialized’s product line longer than most mountain bikers have been alive. The brand spent decades perfecting the Rockhopper into the well-rounded mountain bike platform it is today. And that experience—paired with learnings from its World Cup-winning high-end bikes—translates into a refined quality on the trail.

The Rockhopper Elite climbs efficiently, is quite capable on singletrack, and isn’t too nervous when descending. It does everything decently—a quality many buyers in this price range want and expect from a mountain bike.

While the Rockhopper’s frame lacks the tapered headtube and thru axle rear end of the near-equally priced Vitus, the bike strikes a modern and lightweight appearance. The frame has routing for a dropper seatpost (if you wish to add one), its cables route internally on the front triangle, and it has rack mounts.

The components on the Rockhopper Elite don’t jump out, but they also don’t let you down. The air-sprung RockShox Judy TK fork does not perform to the level of the higher-end Recon fork model (more flex under braking and harsher riding). But it is easy to set up for different weight riders and has a crown-mounted lockout for pavement sections.

Specialized offers a bevy of Rockhopper models between $650 and $1,400—We consider the Comp ($950) , Elite, and Expert ($1,400) models most suited for trail riding use. Specialized also has 27.5-inch wheel Rockhopper variants in these models to fit shorter-height riders.

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Salsa rangefinder deore 29.

Rangefinder Deore 29

The Salsa Rangefinder is one of the least expensive bikes in this test and it’s also one of the heaviest. But neither significantly takes away from its abilities on the trail. I was pleasantly surprised by the Rangefinder’s performance in most situations.

The Rangefinder’s extra heft comes from its oversized aluminum frame, heavy 120mm SR Suntour 120mm XCM fork, extra-wide range cassette, and 29x2.6-inch Maxxis tires. These parts, though, also make the Salsa more confident and capable on the trail than the bike’s weight might suggest.

On dirt, the Rangefinder lumbers along. It’s also not light and racey, nor is the Salsa a “go fast and take chances” style bike. The Rangefinder's slightly upright positioning, steep seat angle, and low gearing allow you to sit and spin up climbs, despite the bike’s weight.

The Rangefinder is capable, though not fully confident when descending. The wide Maxxis Rekon tires and thru axle fork provide extra grip over roots and precision when picking a line through rocky sections of trail. But the Tektro Gemini brakes with 160mm rotors are insufficient at higher speeds or when the gradient pitches steeply downward. The fork’s lack of damping adjustment also made the fork ping-pong off of rocks when they came in quick succession.

Salsa provides options for riders seeking a Shimano-equipped Rangefinder or one with plus-sized wheels. It offers three other Rangefinder models between $900 and $1,500. Each model has 27.5+ or 29-inch wheel variants. There are Shimano Deore 10 , 11 , and 12-speed drivetrains Rangefinder models.

MORE RANGEFINDER PHOTOS

Specialized Riprock 24

Riprock 24

The Riprock 24 is an excellent bike for kids who want to take their riding skills off-road. Designed to accommodate riders between 3-foot-11 and 4-foot-8, this bike comes with 24-inch wheels, a 1x9-speed MicroShift group, and hydraulic disc brakes. While many kid's mountain bikes use a suspension fork, the Riprock 24 features an aluminum rigid fork. Most bikes at this price use heavy suspension forks that don't work for lightweight riders; the Specialized’s rigid fork saves weight and looks great. This makes the Riprock 24 well-equipped for young riders' trail riding adventures. The bike comes in four colors and is also available with 20-inch wheels for riders under between 3’5” and 4’4”.

SHOP RIPROCK 20

Vitus Sentier 29

Sentier 29

This bike stands for its capabilities and temperament on more technical trails. The Sentier’s combination of frame geometry and solid component selection allows it to ride faster, carry speed, and carve corners like much higher-priced trail bikes.

The Sentier’s frame boasts a slack head angle and a long top tube length. The bike’s short chainstays and low bottom bracket height also aid the bike’s great handling attributes. The thru axle rear wheel (the only one in the test) provides additional stiffness when turning, and the tapered headtube adds a sense of security when going down chutes or hitting jumps.

A small detail of the Sentier 29’s components specification helped the bike more than any others in our test—its tires. The wide Schwalbe tubeless tires have a soft rubber compound that grips rocks and roots and provides excellent traction while climbing and descending. The tires help give the Sentier a premium, high-end ride feel.

The upgraded tires and thru axle wheels meant Vitus needed to trim costs elsewhere to keep the Sentier affordable. It did this on the drivetrain and brakes. The 1x10 Shimano Deore drivetrain shifted predictably and had a sufficient gear range for all the climbs I tackled. Also of note, the Sentier was the only bike in our test with a lighter, stiffer two-piece crankset.

The lone low mark on the Sentier is its stock brakes. Our test bike came with Clarks M2 stoppers (some Sentier 29s come with Tektro brakes) that were noisy under hard braking and had an unpredictable bite point.

Another odd choice was Vitus’ use of external cabling with exposed sections of shift cable. It seemed a bit retro in its aesthetic but functioned fine. The frame has only one bottle cage mount, so plan to use a big bottle or hydration pack for longer rides.

At $1,200, the Sentier 29 is the most expensive bike in our test but the base model of Vitus’ Sentier four-bike hardtail range. For $200 more, you get the Sentier 29 VR with an upgraded fork, dropper seatpost, better brakes, and an 11-speed drivetrain.

MORE SENTIER PHOTOS

Polygon Premier 4

Premier 4

Cheap hardtails usually aren't great for trail riding as the parts wear out quickly, the brakes are underpowered, and the suspension doesn't really do much. While not as well equipped as a high-end hardtail, Polygon's Premier 4 offers many of the same features and components found on competitors' bikes costing hundreds of dollars more. We particularly like that Polygon chose Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and a Shimano 8-speed cassette on the Premier 4. Other bikes around this price usually come with lower-quality mechanical disc brakes and 7-speed freewheels.

Giant Talon 29 1

Talon 29 1

The Giant Talon 1 was the biggest sleeper in our test. The Talon’s frame doesn’t have an aggressive trail bike silhouette. It also does not look oversized and burly. The plain black paint and blue logo also help to subdue the Giant.

Appearances and first looks are often deceiving. Once on the trail, the Talon 1 surprised me with its capabilities. It rides like a bike that should cost a couple of hundred dollars more.

The Giant’s good ride feel comes down to its fork. The house-brand 100mm travel SXC-32-2 RL fork features 32mm aluminum stanchions, an alloy steerer, and an air spring. These shave weight off the bike while improving stiffness and steering precision. The fork’s rebound adjustment and air spring help you tune the fork for your weight and local trails. It is a big plus for a bike at this price.

The Tektro M275 brakes on the Talon 1 were underwhelming. They slowed the bike down but lacked modulation and a good feel at the lever. The Deore 10-speed drivetrain shifted smoothly but was over-geared for steeper hills compared to the other bikes in the test.

Giant offers three models in the Talon range, with the Talon 1 being the most expensive and best equipped for trail riding. For a more premium Giant hardtail trail bike, check out the Fathom 29 models . Starting at $1,500, the Fathoms have longer travel forks, tubeless tires, and dropper posts.

MORE TALON PHOTOS

Liv Tempt 2 27.5

Tempt 2 27.5

Purchasing a bike when you are new to mountain biking can be tricky! Perhaps you don't want to invest much money, only to find out you didn't like the bike. Or, maybe you want a bike for occasional use or more mellow trails? That's where bikes like the Liv Tempt fit in. These bikes are enough to have a fun (and safe) time on the trail but without some of the high-end features that drive up a bike's price.

The Tempt 2 ticks all the right boxes for a solid beginner bike. It has a wide gear range for climbing hills, hydraulic disc brakes with good stopping power, and an SR Suntour suspension fork. Liv exclusively makes women's bikes, and the Tempt has proportional wheel sizing for better bike fit: 27.5” for XS and S, 29” for S, M, and L.

Zize Bikes Yonder

Yonder

While most brands make bikes rated for riders up to 200 or 250 pounds, Zize exclusively focuses on bikes for heavyweight riders. With its cromoly frame and fork, heavy-duty wheels, and Clarks hydraulic disc brakes, the Yonder accommodates riders up to 550 lbs. The Yonder also features a 100mm wide bottom bracket shell and 3-inch width, 26-inch WTB tires for added rider stability. The bike has a dependable Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, however, the gear range is not super low—so it's not best for riding up steep hills. Though the Yonder is pricey, consider this bike if you're a heavier rider looking to get into off-road riding.

Marin Bikes Team Marin 2

Team Marin 2

The mid-90s were a golden age for hardtails and mountain bike racing. Brands fought it out on the trail with big factory teams at NORBA races and on shop floors with well-equipped bikes purpose-built for cross country racing. Marin brings that vibe back with the Team Marin, a bike designed for privateer XC racers but also well-suited for daily trail riding.

While the Team Marin 2's design ethos and aesthetic harken back to years past, the bike is thoroughly contemporary and outfitted for the needs of modern-day trail riders. The aluminum frame sports a slack 67-degree head angle for confident descending and a 74-degree seat tube angle for better climbing and improved performance with dropper posts—which the Team Marin comes equipped stock. A wide-range 1x12 Shimano XT/SLX drivetrain, sure-stopping TRP G-Spec hydraulic brakes, and a 120mm Fox 34 Step Cast fork round out the features of this super-capable and great-looking hardtail.

Orbea Urrun 30 Hardtail E-Bike

Urrun 30 Hardtail E-Bike

E-mountain bikes have grown in popularity over the past few years, helping cyclists to tackle harder rides and longer climbs. But you don't need to drop 5-figures to get a solid, trail-capable e-bike. Orbea's Orrun is equipped with trail-ready features such as a 120mm travel Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork, Magura MT30 disc brakes, and Maxxis tubeless tires. The internal 540Wh battery provides assistance for a claimed 8 hours of riding (a 252Wh range extender is available for even more trail time). The addition of a dropper post would turn the Urrun into an even better trail bike.

Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 3

Scalpel HT Carbon 3

Introduced last year, the new Scalpel Carbon hardtail pairs the lightweight of a World Cup-level XC racing frame with the geometry and handling prowess normally found on more aggressive trail bikes. The outcome is a bike that climbs with almost road bike efficiency but descends and corners better than other hardtails in the category. Of the four-model Scalpel HT lineup, our favorite is the Carbon 3. It features a 29-inch wheel carbon frame (Hi-Mod designated models feature the superlight, 885-gram frame variant), a Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain, Stan's tubeless rims, and Shimano hydraulic brakes. Cannondale's Lefty (found on the Hi-Mod models) is polarizing. Luckily, the Carbon 3 comes equipped with a RockShox Sid SL Select+, the go-to choice for many cross country racers. We only wish the Scalpel HT shipped standard with a dropper post to really take advantage of the bike's great geometry.

Cervélo ZHT-5 GX AXS

ZHT-5 GX AXS

I'm sure many of you are perplexed right now and just said, “Wait, Cervélo makes mountain bikes?” When the Tour de France winning Jumbo-Visma race team required a mountain bike for its racers, the product folks from team sponsor Cervélo stepped up to deliver this podium-worthy ride. Sporting a 907-gram (claimed) carbon frame, 69-degree head angle, and long reach top tubes, the ZHT-5 is made for speed. This SRAM GX Eagle AXS 12-speed wireless equipped model also comes standard with a 100mm travel RockShox Sid SL Select fork, e.thirteen TRS Race tubeless wheels, and a RaceFace cockpit.

Chromag Primer Frame

Primer Frame

Whistler, British Columbia-based Chromag Bikes builds bikes, frames, and parts engineered to withstand the challenging trails that make its hometown a destination for mountain bike riders. (Chromag also makes the best-named kids bike in cycling history!) Build up the Canadian-made Primer frame with your choice of parts to meet your riding needs and budget. Designed for use with 160mm travel forks and either 29-inch or 27.5+ wheels, the 4130 steel-framed Primer is not meant to be a flyweight bike, but something that can be ridden hard deep in the woods.

Headshot of Tara Seplavy

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

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Cannondale and Trek MTB are not road bike models, instead, they are two of the leading mountain bike brands in the bike shop world, so it’s quite common for riders to pit them against each other when it comes to which company produces the best bike . When comparing Cannondale against Trek, you have to consider quite a few factors before being siding with one or the other.

A simple way to get a quick perspective as to how both companies are perceived in the mountain biking industry is that Cannondale has a reputation similar to a Rolls-Royce while a Trek is seen as more of an affordable and practical brand. That means that right from the jump riders knows which brand to go to based on their skill level, competence, and budget.

Both Cannondale and Trek MTB make different bikes that compete with each other at every level, so you have multiple road bike options to choose from regardless of which brand you decide to go with. Where the core differences between these brands come into play is in the area of research, development, and conceptual design of the bicycle .

If you’ve been thinking about buying a new bike and have been stuck on the fence about whether to go with Cannondale or Trek MTB, you’ve come to the right place. In this comparison, I’m going to cover all of the key differences, similarities, and facts you need to know about both brands to make an educated decision about which one has the perfect trail bike for you.

Table of Contents

Main Differences Between Cannondale vs Trek MTB 

The Main Differences Between Cannondale vs Trek MTB are:

  • Cannondale uses carbon or alloy material to create the frames for their bikes, whereas Trek MTB uses carbon composite material.
  • Cannondale is a bicycle manufacturer that strictly focuses on manufacturing high-quality mountain and cycling bikes, whereas Trek uses initiatives like programs that encourage people to reduce carbon emissions by switching to a bike as their primary vehicle
  • Cannondale bikes have won multiple awards for their innovative design whereas several cycling champions have utilized trek bikes, so each company has unique credentials surrounding their brand.

In general, these are some of the primary differences between both of these brands that you can factor in when deciding on which one is right for you.

Each road bike brand is known for a unique set of accomplishments and credentials that have been earned throughout their time as leaders in the industry. These subtle differences will play a massive role in deciding which brand offers the exact features, specifications, and riding dynamics you’re looking for.

Now, let’s take a look at some of my top recommendations from both brands to get a view of what they offer. 

Top Recommendations 

#1 cannondale tango 1 .

Cannondale Tango

The Cannondale Tango 1 gravel bike is a uniquely designed mountain bike built for precise handling and lasting build quality. The features on this bike shine most when putting to the test drive on beginner-level downhill rides and low-impact trails.

One of the most exciting features of this Cannondale bike is that it comes with an integrated intellimount stem that makes it easy for you to connect any SP-connect compatible smartphone case so that you can track all of your riding statistics with ease via the official Cannondale app.

You can also use the official app to track your Cannondale bike distance, speed, and more thanks to an integrated wheel sensor. This great bike is made using a SmartForm C2 Alloy Frame that reduces the bike ‘s overall weight while providing reliable support for the trail .

It’s SAVE micro-suspension system utilizes engineered flex zones built into the frame’s rear triangle. This delivers smooth and accurate handling capabilities that are responsive and intuitive.

#2 Cannondale JekyllCarbon 29 1

Cannondale JekyllCarbon 29 1

The Cannondale JekyllCarbon 29 1 is a monster of a pro-level bike that is designed for maximum traction, powerful impact support, very responsive handling, and pure speed.

This bike comes equipped with Float Factory DPX2 EVOL Gemini Shocks that have two adjustable modes which are Hustle and Flow, Hustle-Mode allows you to achieve high-speeds without sacrificing your handling ability. Flow-Mode enables you to breeze through all sorts of features and conditions tearing breezing through raw terrain along your way.

This is a unique feature that gives you the ability to set your optimal ride profile without a hassle. It’s BallisTec Carbon frame comes backed by a lifetime warranty and delivers the perfect balance of weight reduction/stability.  To top it all off, the JekyllCarbon 29 1 comes with a XTR Trail hydro disc brake set w/ HollowGram cranks that deliver ultra-smooth gear changes. 

#3 Trek MTB X-Caliber 7

Trek MTB X-Caliber 7

The Trek MTB X-Caliber 7 is a race bike and cross-country rider that delivers a fine-tuned bike that can take your riding to new levels. One of the standouts features about this bike for me is the RockShox air fork with a rebound adjust, this feature allows you to tweak it’s height so that it’s proportional with your build.

This Trek bike is made from a very lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum frame that provides reliable support for riders on virtually any trail. At its core, the X-Caliber 7 was designed for speed, and thanks to it’s classic XC hardtail, you can achieve on-the-fly handling in even the most complex conditions. 

#4 Trek MTB Fuel EX 9.8

Trek Fuel EX 9.8

The Trek MTB Fuel EX 9.8 is a fine-tuned all-in-one mountain bike that can handle, single-track, racing, and trail hard trail riding smoothly. This bike is made using an OCLV mountain carbon frame that is ultra-durable yet responsive.

The bike overall is lightweight and very fast, which experienced mountain bikers will love, especially when you consider the RE: Aktiv with Thru Shaft that adds even more control to an already high-performing shock system. This combination of technologically advanced design specifications, plus those huge, all-terrain tires allows the Fuel EX 9.8 to attack all-terrain trails like nothing else I’ve seen before.

This bike also comes with an Active Braking Pivot that manages braking force and acceleration separately for more efficient performance. 

These are some of my top recommendations from both companies. As you can see, there is no shortage of product versatility or design ingenuity from either brand, which is what makes them such powerhouses in the industry. Now that you’ve gotten a look into the bikes available from both of these brands, I’m going to give you a straightforward comparison of the core features, and principles that lie at the center of Cannondale and Trek MTB. 

Check out how the Fuel EX 9.8 compares to the Fuel EX 5.

Trek Fuel EX 9.8 | Trek Bikes

A lightweight full OCLV Mountain Carbon frame, 1x12 SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, carbon wheels, and FOX Performance Float suspension with Trek's exclusive RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft shock make it the perfect choice for all-mountain shredders who want a single bike that does it all.

Feature Comparison

Below, you’re going to find a detailed comparison of the core features you can expect to see from each of these brands broken into categories. We’ll be covering areas related to product quality, product performance, innovation, and more so you’ll have a full spectrum of understanding precisely where your dollars are going if you choose either of these brands. 

Frame Material/Build Quality 

Both Cannondale and Trek MTV utilize high-quality carbon fiber material to make the frames for their bikes. However, Cannondale has a superior machining process, which eliminates approx. 2lbs. off the total weight of the bike.

While this may not seem like a huge number, 2lbs can and will make a huge difference when you’re racing, or tackling big features, so you want to keep this in mind. Cannondale bikes typically weigh in the range of 14.lbs while Trek MTB bikes weigh about 19.07lbs. 

Braking System 

In the mountain biking industry, there are two standard types of brakes: rim brakes and disc brakes. Cannondale bikes, by nature, are designed to deliver high-speed performance across a wide range of different terrains. For this reason, you will often see their bikes outfitted with hydraulic disc brakes, which provide ultimate stopping power under any conditions. 

On the other hand, when looking at Trek MTB, the company utilizes an improvised design enhancement to traditional disc brakes that deliver excellent performance but is no match for the Cannondale braking system. 

Gear Functionality 

The gears are a very significant part of the bike and can make or break your ride, especially in a race. Cannondale bikes are known for their ultra-smooth derailers that breeze through the gears and deliver seamless transition regardless of what terrain you may be powering through.

Trek, on the other hand, uses Shimano gears, and while they work great, they are rated more for riding on pavement and not for off road cycling. It comes down to whether you want the ability to adapt to changes in your surroundings, maybe as an all-terrain rider, or if you want a bike that is more geared towards a particular type of ride style. 

Value 

Both of these brands offer specialized mountain bikes in various categories, all of which are designed to provide the best value to specific riders. When looking at the facts sheet, Trek seems to always fit in the most “bang for your buck” with their selection of bikes as you’d be hard strapped to find a cheaply made bike from the company that didn’t deliver some type of performance.

Cannondale, on the other hand, packs in a ton of value into their bikes. By incorporating advanced features into every single aspect of their bikes, they deliver the most advanced, and highest build quality. If you’re looking for the best of the best, tried and true, top of the line mountain bike, Cannondale is always a solid choice. These bikes will take your riding to the next level. 

FAQs About Trek vs Cannondale

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It all depends on your body type and riding style; Trek bikes tend to have short top seat tube design, making them great for short people. Alternatively, Cannondale offers bikes made using long top tubes, which makes them ideal for tall individuals. The most important thing is being comfortable on your bike.

Yes, Cannondale bikes are very high-quality, and they are considered to be one of the leading mountain bike manufacturers worldwide. Cannondale has won several awards for its outstanding innovation and design standards.

Yes, Trek has also considered a great mountain bike brand as it offers specialized bike options for riders of virtually all styles. They are also known for their affordable pricing, which is suitable for those riders who are looking for the most value.

Make A Decision: Which brand is better? 

After taking an in-depth look at both Cannondale and Trek MTB, it’s time to give you my honest opinion about both brands. For starters, both of these brands produce bikes aimed at two completely separate crowds.

Cannondale bikes are made for those riders who don’t care about price and strictly want performance while Trek MTB considers their customer’s wallets a bit more. With that being said, it will depend on what you’re looking for in a mountain bike and how much time you’re willing to put into learning the groove of whatever brand you choose. 

However, in terms of pure data, Cannondale has a few advantages over Trek MTB, which makes them the winner of this comparison. One of the things that impress me about Cannondale bikes is that they always seem to intuitively combine vastly different elements that seamlessly work together to create a perpetual sense of forwarding motion around the brand. 

I can see why the company is known for being so innovative. All of their products use the natural laws of physics and biology to deliver high-performance bikes that are ready and capable of taking on anything. If you want a reliable bike that is powerful, efficient, precise, and agile, Cannondale will have something for you. 

Use this comparison guide as a tool to help you make a decision about which one of these mountain bike brands is best for you. I’ve covered all of the key differences and essential facts that will impact your purchase decision the most, so there is no excuse for you to choose the wrong bike.

Use your existing ride knowledge as it relates to what features, specifications, and design elements seem to work best for you so that you can start blazing the trails. 

  • Cannondale vs Specialized

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trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

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Cannondale Trail 5 vs Trek Marlin 5

Cannondale Trail 5

  • Great for mountain biking
  • Good geometry
  • Easy to upgrade
  • Great for gravel riding
  • Good build quality
  • Stronger materials and better construction
  • Recommended for taller riders
  • Protective gear is a must

Reviews by Topic

Our analysis shows how reviewers feel about different topics. Please note these are not full reviews.

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Cannondale Trail 5 2021 vs Trek Marlin 5 2020

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Electric Bike Battery Recycling Program

Along with 20+ other leading bike companies, Cannondale is proud to be a part of the e-bike battery recycling program organized by PeopleForBikes and administrated by the not-for-profit Call2Recycle. Your payment of $15 goes to an industrywide fund that ensures batteries from Cannondale e-bikes are recycled at end of life and do not end up in landfills. Learn more at Call2Recycle .

Trail 8 Detail Image

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Based on your height, we suggest a , which works for heights ranging from to .

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A mountain bike built to raise your game and ignite a passion for the trail. Designed for the mountains and ready for anything.

Where it thrives

Low-impact trails, gravel roads, leisurely ride

What it's built for

Handling, durability

  • Light and durable SmartForm C3 Alloy frame
  • SR Suntour M3030 suspension fork, 75mm travel
  • 7-speed drivetrain w/ double chainring cranks / Tektro mechanical disc brakes

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

SmartForm C3 Alloy

Simple yet sophisticated aluminum construction yields a light, lively frame that outperforms anything in its class.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

SAVE Micro-Suspension

Delivers a smoother, more controlled ride thanks to strategically engineered flex zones built into the frame's rear triangle.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

Slack and Stable

A slack 68° head angle creates exceptionally stable handling so that you can charge the descents with confidence.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

Right-Sized Wheels

The smaller sizes of Trail roll on 27.5" wheels, while the larger sizes come with 29" wheels to deliver the best blend of fit, fast and fun for every rider.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

StraightShot Internal Cable Routing

For an integrated look and easy maintenance, the shift and dropper post cables route cleanly through the StraightShot window in the down tube, while the rear brake line is secured outside the frame.

  • Platform Trail
  • Model Name Trail 8
  • Model Code C26801M
  • Frame SmartForm C3 Alloy, SAVE, 1-1/8" headtube, post mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, dropper post compatible, BSA-73
  • Fork SR Suntour M3030, 75mm, coil, 42mm offset (27.5") 46mm offset (29")
  • Headset Semi-Integrated, 1-1/8"
  • Rear Derailleur microSHIFT M26L
  • Front Derailleur microSHIFT Dual Pull Compact, Band Clamp
  • Shifters microSHIFT, 7-speed
  • Chain KMC Z7, 7-speed
  • Crank Prowheel, 36/22
  • Rear Cogs Sunrace, 11-34, 7-speed
  • Bottom Bracket Sealed cartridge bearing, square taper
  • Brakes Tektro mechanical disc, 160/160mm rotors
  • Brake Levers Tektro
  • Front Hub Formula, QR
  • Rear Hub Formula QR
  • Brake Type Disc
  • Rims WTB SX19, 32h
  • Spokes Stainless Steel, 14g
  • Tire Size 2.25
  • Wheel Size 29
  • Tires WTB Ranger Comp, 29x2.25" (27.5x2.25" - XS, SM), DNA Compound
  • Front Tire WTB Ranger Comp, 29x2.25" (27.5x2.25" - XS, SM), DNA Compound
  • Rear Tire WTB Ranger Comp, 29x2.25" (27.5x2.25" - XS, SM), DNA Compound
  • Handlebar 6061 Alloy Riser, 31.8mm, 25mm rise, 700mm
  • Stem 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 8°
  • Grips Cannondale Dual-Density
  • Saddle Cannondale Stage 3
  • Seatpost Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.6x350mm (XS - SM), 400mm (MD-XL)

Please note that, based on component availability and other factors, specifications are subject to change without notice.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

Upgrades and accessories for your ride

Mountain Look Smart

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

Long Arms? Short Legs? Just not sure? Call Us!

Customer service can help you identify a size more specific to your body type. (123)456-7890, compare products, specifications, certifications, rear derailleur, front derailleur, bottom bracket, brake levers, rim material, rim outer width, rim inner width, nipple type, wheel weight, dish offset, effective rim diameter, maximum spoke tension, max tire pressure, rider weight limit, spoke count, spoke length (nds-ds), tire casing, tire protection, connectivity, wheel sensor, power meter, speed sensor, tire sidewalls.

trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

IMAGES

  1. Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 2021

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

  2. Cannondale Vs Trek Bikes

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

  3. Cannondale vs Trek Mountain Bike

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

  4. Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 2021

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

  5. Compare: 2020 Trek Marlin 4 vs Cannondale Trail 8

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

  6. CANNONDALE VS. TREK

    trek marlin 5 vs cannondale trail 8

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  6. Trek Marlin 6

COMMENTS

  1. Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 2021

    Trek Marlin 5 Vs Cannondale Trail 8 - What's Different? Suspension forks. You'll get a longer 100mm travel with the Trek suspension fork compared to 75mm on the Cannondale. The longer travel is especially good for riders who will be using the bikes on rougher roads and tackling bigger drops. In addition, heavier riders will appreciate the ...

  2. Compare: 2020 Cannondale Trail 8 vs Trek Marlin 5

    The Cannondale Trail 8 and Trek Marlin 5 are both aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes with mid-range components. The Trail 8 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a 3 × 8 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears, while the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels.

  3. Compare: 2022 Cannondale Trail 8 vs Trek Marlin 5 vs Marlin 4

    The Cannondale Trail 8, Trek Marlin 5, and Trek Marlin 4 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 8 has 29″ aluminum wheels and a 2 × 7 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears, the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 26″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork, and the Marlin 4 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components.

  4. Hop on the best mountain bikes for under $1,000

    Cannondale's Trail 8 Bike is available at a price similar to the REI DRT 1.1. ... The latest generation Trek Marlin 5 is an exceptional value because it's a do-it-all two-wheeler — a mountain ...

  5. Is Cannondale Trail 8 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Trail 8 Review]

    The Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 and Cannondale Trail 8 are both hardtail bikes with aluminum frames. The former is priced at $739.99 while the latter is only $645. Moreover, the Cannondale Trail 8's tires are 0.05″ wider than the former. The Cannondale Trail 8 has 0.05″ wider tires, which makes it more stable in real-world riding experience.

  6. Best Mountain Bikes Under $1,000

    See the Cannondale Trail 5 See the Women's Cannondale Trail 5 ... 8. Trek Marlin 5 ($740) Suspension: 80mm - 100mm (front) Tires: 29 x 2.2 in. (medium frame) Gears: 2 x 8 What we like: Versatile feature set for XC riding, bike paths, and commuting. What we don't: Not very trail-worthy.

  7. Compare Trek Marlin 5 2020 vs Cannondale Trail 8 2021

    Compare all bikes data including: price, suspension, geometry and many more for the chosen bikes in a easy-to-use table.

  8. Trek Marlin 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 Compared: Which One to Choose?

    On the other hand, I recommend avoiding the Marlin 4 because it uses the outdated 3X drivetrain. The value of the Marlin 8 is also questionable, as you can get mountain bikes with better components in this price range. Buy Marlin 4. Buy Marlin 5. Buy Marlin 6. Buy Marlin 7. Buy Marlin 8.

  9. Compare: 2021 Cannondale Trail 5 vs Trek Marlin 5 vs Marlin 6

    Riders Also Compared. The Cannondale Trail 5, Trek Marlin 5, and Trek Marlin 6 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 5 has 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and a better fork; the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and higher gearing; and the Marlin 6 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels.

  10. Which Trek Marlin (5,6 or 7) or Cannondale Trail (6, 7, 8)

    This is a great point, and that too is another thing I think about. However, I don't know specs that well to make that choice. I'd say it is between the trek marlin 7 and cannondale trail 6. Personally i would say cannondale, because it has a 2x drivetrain and shimano brakes. But it depends on what is available.

  11. Compare: 2020 Cannondale Trail 8 vs 2021 Giant Talon 2 vs Trek Marlin 5

    The Cannondale Trail 8, Giant Talon 2, and Trek Marlin 5 are all aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 8 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a 3 × 8 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears, while the Talon 2 has better components and a better fork. Explore the differences below.more »

  12. The 14 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

    The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes. Best Overall: Trek Roscoe 7. Lightweight and Balanced: Specialized Rockhopper Elite. Best Hardtail Deal: Salsa Rangefinder Deore 29. Best Kids: Specialized ...

  13. Cannondale vs Trek

    The Main Differences Between Cannondale vs Trek MTB are: Cannondale uses carbon or alloy material to create the frames for their bikes, whereas Trek MTB uses carbon composite material. Cannondale is a bicycle manufacturer that strictly focuses on manufacturing high-quality mountain and cycling bikes, whereas Trek uses initiatives like programs ...

  14. Cannondale Trail 5 vs Trek Marlin 5

    2019 Cannondale Trail 5 Review - YouTube They are stiffer and with less flex, providing better traction and surface feel than models with a straight steerer. The threadless stem is a 4-bolt m...

  15. Compare: 2020 Cannondale Trail 8 vs Trek Marlin 4

    The Cannondale Trail 8 and Trek Marlin 4 are both aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 8 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a 3 × 8 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears, while the Marlin 4 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components.

  16. Cannondale Trail 5 2021 vs Trek Marlin 5 2020

    Close main menu. Bikes Compare Brands . Brands

  17. The 7 Top-Rated Hardtail Mountain Bikes, According to Singletracks

    5. Trek Superfly: $1,520-$2,100. ... This type of geo is fairly commonplace across trail bikes now, but Kona deserves a lot of credit for pushing the envelope early. The Honzos run on 29″ wheels with a 120mm fork, stubby chainstays, and really long reach numbers (a large is 475mm!). If you like plus wheels, you can get yourself a Big Honzo ...

  18. Trail 8

    Highlights. Light and durable SmartForm C3 Alloy frame. SR Suntour M3030 suspension fork, 75mm travel. 7-speed drivetrain w/ double chainring cranks / Tektro mechanical disc brakes. 01 Specs and Sizing 02 All Trail Bikes.

  19. Compare: 2021 Cannondale Trail 7 vs Trek Marlin 5

    The Cannondale Trail 7 and Trek Marlin 5 are both aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 7 has 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork, while the Marlin 5 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and higher gearing. Similar Bikes. Accessories. Ride Feel. Based on frame geometry and build specs.

  20. Compare: 2021 Cannondale Trail 5 vs Trek Marlin 7

    The Cannondale Trail 5 and Trek Marlin 7 are both aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bikes. The Trail 5 has 29″ aluminum wheels, better components, and higher gearing; while the Marlin 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork. Similar Bikes. Accessories. Ride Feel. Based on frame geometry and build specs.

  21. Marlin 4 vs Cannondale Trail 8 : r/TrekBikes

    Marlin 4 vs Cannondale Trail 8. Alternate suggestion - Marlin 5. The Marlin 5 allows you to lockout your suspension when you're on pavement and don't need the compression. It also has hydraulic disc brakes. Neither of which the Marlin 4 has. Thank You. What do you think about cannondale trail 8 if you have any knowledge or experience?