Rough terrain is wild and adventurous, but it takes its toll on the rider, and not all bikes can take it. That’s why we were on the lookout for the best full suspension mountain bike under 2000, read on to see what we found.
Dual or full-suspension bikes don’t just smooth out the roughness of the trail. They provide more traction and stability by keeping the bike from flying off the ground.
Quick Comparison: Best Mountain Bike Under 2000 Full Suspension
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Key Considerations
Before committing to a bike, you might want to consider a few things. Some of them have to do with you, while others are related to your riding style and frequent trail.
The Rider
The stature of the rider is the most important factor. In addition to the gender, riding Style, and personal preference of how the bike looks.
The Ride
Each part of the bike determines what you can or can’t do with it. Here are the major points.
The Frame
You need to consider three things about the frame: its overall size, its material, and its geometry.
The size should match your stature for comfort and control. As for the frame material; you’d most probably come across aluminum, carbon fiber, steel, or alloy.
The geometry part is interesting. It’s how your bike’s mass is distributed. This implies the exact way it would respond to slopes, climbs, obstacles, and side swaying.
The Drivetrain
Shift gears come in 1x, 2x, or 3x systems. They offer various speeds with the most popular being the 24-speed systems. Go for a simple but efficient system, preferably from Shimano.
Brake system: rim brakes were the only type used for bikes. Until premium parts found their way to the drivetrain groupset. Hydraulic brakes are the norm nowadays, so if you see a bike model with cable brakes, skip it.
What you need is a high-quality mechanical component, that’s also lightweight, reliable, and has a trigger response.
Suspension and Travel
The ‘travel’ of any suspension system is how far the spring system moves while crossing a bump. Travel distances are typically around 80-200 mm.
Rougher terrain, naturally, calls for larger travel to absorb the successive shocks. The suspension travel is not necessarily the same for the front and rear wheels. It depends largely on what the bike is designed for.
The Wheels
The trailblazer of wheels is the 26”. It’s still seen, but the 27.5” wheels have pretty much replaced it. It has more air volume which puts in a bit of lull. It also keeps the bike agile while allowing for a fair amount of acceleration.
The 29” wheels are associated with power and speed. They’re a little less popular in enduro and technical trails though.
Fat tires are best suited for sand, snow, and mud. They give far more traction and stability than the regular sizes. So what if you need that kind of stability on rough dry terrain? Plus wheels are your best choice.
The Terrain
Cross-country requires a lightweight and speedy bike. Look for a bike with a light frame and minimal mechanics. If you have the right stature, go for a Twenty-Niner. You could use a top tech drivetrain to maintain an efficient ride. A simple suspension with minimal travel should do, and get good brakes.
Enduro, technical trails, downhill, and trail are a different story. You definitely need a good full-suspension system, high precision, and good traction. A 27.5” wheel should be good, and if you need more stability, go for a plus.
Best Full Suspension Mountain Bike Under 2000: Reviews and Buying Guide
1. Diamondback Bicycles Catch 1 Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Description
The Diamondback is a typical mountain bike that’s made for braving rocky roads, slopes, and sharp twists. It’s a pretty classic machine, but it’s a beast on the road!
It pairs speed with stability in a remarkably attractive mix. Thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame and the 27.5″ plus wheel size, it’s a bike that’s agile but has plenty of grip on the road.
Several riders consider the 1×11 drivetrain as a beginner’s choice. But it’s actually a versatile arrangement that declutters the frame and frees up the rider.
This bike is available in different sizes, from short to tall riders. It fits their stature comfortably and gives them absolute control. The tall guys aren’t entirely out of the picture here, and many of them opt for a 27.5″ bike to enjoy the maneuverability it offers.
Features
- Hydraulic brakes
- Runs on low pressure 3″ tires
- RockShox Yari RC 27 plus a 130mm travel fork
- Full rebound and compression damping at low speeds
- A reliable but straightforward SRAM NX 1×11 drivetrain
- Front and rear thru-axles of 110x15mm and 148x12mm
- The frame is made from durable aluminum
Pros
- Versatile for any riding style
- Hydraulic brakes allow great stopping power
- Provides high grip on the terrain
- Lightweight frame
- Simple shift gear system
Cons
- It arrives partially assembled
- Could take up to two hours to put together
- Might need the services of a bike shop
Video: Diamondback Catch with Level Link
2. Virsilas Folding Mountain Bike – Full Suspension MTB
Description
This bike seems to create a category for itself, and that’s not only in the looks department. It’s just as unique in its performance and endurance.
The frame is engineered to handle a bumpy trail with ease. It also has an elaborate suspension system that’ll neutralize the roughness of the road. And if you happen to come across a pond, don’t be afraid of the rust, the frame can take it.
Despite the small 26″ wheelset, the V1 gains speed quickly. This wheel size actually adds loads more precision and control to the bike. It has a fair amount of stability, garnered by a full Shimano set.
Shifting gears and indexing has never been smoother than this. This is a definite plus across the board of wild terrain and long roads.
The Virsilas Folding Mountain Bike is remarkably versatile. It’ll go along with almost any biker’s size and stature, and also suitable for women. This wide range coverage of rides and riders is pretty rare, and it shows a brilliant design concept.
Features
- The frame is an 18″ alloy
- Folding configuration
- Unisex bike
- Shimano shifters gears with 21-speed cogs
- Shimano front and rear Derailleurs
- Disc brakes employ a simple mechanical system
- Elaborate suspension system
- Left side fork preload
- Right side fork lockout
- Classic 26″ wheels
Pros
- Folds into a portable size
- Folds into a portable size
- Suitable for heavy set riders up to 300 lb
- Mostly assembled at the factory
- The frame is resistant to rust
- It’s made from the prime quality T6 alloy
- The joints are TIG-welded for maximum strength
- The seats are padded for more comfort
Cons
- The 26” wheels are a bit dated, and mostly replaced by the 27.5” variety
- Only 1-year warranty
Video: Virsilas Folding Mountain Bike
3. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual Suspension Mountain Bike
Description
The Protocol is a mountain bike made for rough rides. There’s a lot of focus on the front end of the bike. The fork suspension and the Promax disc brake translate into maximal control in rough terrain.
It’s a man’s bike, so the whole frame, height, and geometry are more suitable for tall, heavyset folks. If you’re tall and slim, then the overall performance will be that of true speed.
The speeding, gear shifting, and braking system are also exceptional aspects of this bike. Shimano parts drive the bike smoothly and respond promptly to the slightest change of pace. You can go uphill or downhill with the Protocol. Or if you like, take it on a wild ride off-road.
Features
- Extra shock absorption through a front fork
- Shimano EZ-fire fast response shifters
- 24-speed with smooth acceleration
- 26″ wheels
- Shimano rear derailleur
- Double types of brakes in front and rear
- High strength alloy rims
- Schwinn premium quality alloy crank
Pros
- Top-quality drivetrain components
- Efficient speeding and deceleration
- Brakes can work in most wet and dry conditions
- Lightweight frame
- Aggressive built
- Lifetime warranty on the frame
Cons
- There might be some discrepancies between the bike ad and its true appearance
- The suspension travel falls a bit short around rough terrain
Video: Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
4. XICHUNLAI Mountain Bike Outdoor Dual Suspension Folding Bike
Description
The best feature of this bike is its versatility. Its size will accommodate a broad range of riders. It’s designed for speed, control, and rough riding. And finally, you can fold it and pack it in the trunk of your car.
The XICHUNLAI bike focuses on being able to pick up the pace quickly. Thanks to the 24-speed drivetrain. This acceleration is best coupled with a reliable braking system, and that’s exactly what this bike is equipped with.
This is a unisex bike that you can take for a spin offroad, or even push its limits in a trail. It might not be the best performer for more aggressive endeavors like Enduro or Downhill, but it’ll serve you well as a regular mountain bike.
Features
- Suitable for medium to tall riders
- 24-speed gear system
- Disc brakes at the front and rear
- Simple frame and classical look
- Folding structure
Pros
- Portable as it folds into a manageable size
- Versatile usage on various tracks
- Almost fully assembled
- Powerful braking system
- Aesthetically pleasing design
Cons
- 26” wheels aren’t well suited for speeding
- One kind of brakes only
- Wouldn’t do too well on wet terrain
Video: Top Five Full Suspension Mountain Bike Maintenance Tips
Should I Get a Full-Suspension or Hardtail Mountain Bike?
Full-suspension bikes have front and rear systems to neutralize the trail roughness. Hardtails have a suspension system only in the front.
While having a bike that’s fully shockproof seems like a nice idea, it actually comes at a much higher cost. So you need to know whether or not a dual-suspension is essential for you.
Full-suspension systems are also heavier, due to all the added mechanical parts. The difference in weight might not seem too much while your bike is parked, but start picking up speed, and keep pedaling for an hour. You’ll notice the significant effects.
A hardtail excels in cross country and uncomplicated trails while a full-suspension is a dream come true for downhill and technical tracks.
A Twenty-Niner or a Twenty-Seven and a Half?
Wheel size certainly matters. The 29″ wheel carries speed nicely. So it’s great if you’re going across the country, doing a marathon, or having some racing action on a straight road strip.
It’s a bit heavier than the 27.5″, a mere 50 gms on average. This weight, paired with high speeds, means that it has a higher momentum. In other words, it’s harder to start or stop.
This large wheel is also more suitable for taller folks. Comfort on the bike starts with matching the rider’s size with that of the ride.
The 27.5″ is a funny thing. It has high agility and knows its way around rough terrain. It’s also the go-to choice for rolling over obstacles, doing freestyle biking, and going downhill on steep tracks. It actually requires less suspension travel.
This size is quite suitable for almost all riders. Even the taller folks pick this variety occasionally. It’s a nimble ride that’s hard to forego.
Is it Better to Buy A Mountain Bike Online or From a Real Shop?
Buying from a real shop allows you to experience a bike before making a commitment.
We often see a biker wondering whether a large or a medium bike would be the best fit? Sometimes, the nominal measurements, based on the biker’s height, recommend the two sizes. In that case, standing beside the bike could be a better indicator. And if you’re still not sure, you can take it for a spin.
The downside to traditional store shopping is the higher price you’d pay and the limited variety.
Buying a mountain bike is a lot like getting a tailored suit as opposed to an off the rack model. It’s best to see everything that’s out there and then pick the right one. That’s the best part of online shopping.
Conclusion and Best Offer
When you’re shopping for a mountain bike with a budget from $1000 to $2000, you should expect some luxury stuff and real perks. That’s precisely what we found, and here’s our top pick.
Best Offer
The best on our list is easily the Diamondback Bicycles Catch 1 Full Suspension Mountain Bike.
It has the right mix of speeding, stability, and control. It’s a prime piece of machinery that can take on most types of mountain trails.
The Alternative
Virsilas Folding Mountain Bike – Full Suspension MTB
As an exciting alternative, you could go for the Virsilas Folding Mountain Bike. It’s a portable model that you can take on wild rides over all sorts of terrain, and it is less expensive.
