Is Buying A Used Mountain Bike Worth It

Buying a used mountain bike is a great idea if you are on a budget and don’t need to be on the cutting edge of mountain biking. But it’s not for everyone, so let’s get into the details.

If you are not that experienced in mountain biking, buying a used bike is your best option. It will cost less than buying new and it will give you the opportunity to learn about different types of bikes before investing more money in one type.

If you have been riding for years and have developed an attachment to your current bike, then buying a used one might be worth it because they can be just as good as new ones.

What is the lifespan of a mountain bike?

With proper maintenance a mountain bike can last over 20 years. This duration is highly dependent on where you ride and how much you ride. Some items will wear out, tires, chains, brake pads and drivetrains will not last forever. When it comes to longevity careful maintenance is everything.^[1]

Is a mountain bike worth it?

Mountain bikes are worth it because they are very versatile, they can handle almost any type of terrain, they have a long lifespan, and will rarely break on you if you maintain it properly. While it is slower than a road bike it will give you more storage options and a more comfortable ride.^[2]

Is it OK to use a mountain bike on the road?

Yes, you can ride a mountain bike on the road. Many people like to have a mountain bike instead of a road bike or hybrid because they like the option of being able to ride off-road should they choose.^[3]

When should I replace my mountain bike?

After about 500–1000 miles, there will be enough wear that your grip is diminished, especially when cornering and in loose or steep terrain. While tires can be pushed past this wear level, many riders opt to simply replace at this point.^[4]

Can you ride long distances on a mountain bike?

Mountain bikes are good for long rides in off-road areas; you can reach great distances without worrying about durability and function. However, if you’re using mountain bikes on pavement, you may find yourself pedaling harder yet you are not going much faster.^[5]

How much should you spend on a used mountain bike?

A good used low-end full suspension mountain bike will cost usually cost between $800-$1500. A good used mid-range full suspension mountain bike will cost usually cost between $1500-$2400. A good used high-end full suspension mountain bike will cost usually cost between $2400-$4000+.^[6]

What should I look for when buying a mountain bike?

Get the right size. Choose a wheel size. Choose hardtail or full-suss. Don’t obsess about weight. Beware the flashy trinkets. Choose suspension quality, not quantity. Look for futureproof design. Keep some budget back.^[7]

Are cheap MTB worth it?

A cheap mountain bike is not a good option for riding mountain bike trails and if you do happen to take one out, the riding experience will be more stress than fun. An expensive mountain bike will not only provide a better experience, it will give you a lot more confidence on the bike when you’re out on the trail.^[8]

Why are mountain bikes so overpriced?

In short, mountain bikes are so expensive because they are built from expensive materials which are labor-intensive to produce, and the simple economics of high demand with relatively little market competition.^[9]

What is the average price of a mountain bike?

A decent Mountain Bike will cost anywhere between $400 and $800, however, there are many ways to save even more money on a quality bike. Although you can easily spend thousands on some of the newer Mountain Bikes, there are a lot of great options within a reasonable budget.^[10]

Are mountain bikes harder to pedal?

Mountain bikes are harder to pedal and slower on pavement. But they have a cushy ride, an upright riding position, and can travel easily on a wide variety of surfaces. Hybrid or cross bikes are almost as fast and easy to pedal as a road bike, while being almost as comfortable and versatile as a mountain bike.^[11]

Is MTB harder than road cycling?

Based on the factors I was able to test, I found a 51% increase in the effort needed to ride a mountain bike on a grassy, leafy trail with obstacles, compared to a road bike on a paved surface. Remember, that assumes a mountain bike course with grades and turns that are similar to what one would ride on the road.^[12]