With that said, it was fun seeing my son experience something truly different on the dirt. The Bosch Performance Line CX motor offers reliable assistance on climbs and long rides. Other electric components provide efficient power delivery, so you’re never stuck without a boost.
Although heavier wheelsets are favored in the freeride and downhill disciplines, advances in wheel technology continually shave weight off strong wheels. This is highly advantageous as rolling weight greatly affects handling and control, which are very important to the technical nature of freeride and downhill riding. Less expensive models may have heavier frames and aren’t as precise, but they offer a great way for beginners or younger riders to try mountain biking without making a large upfront investment. The only things that would be notably different would be the tyres (larger volume and knobblier), fork (more travel) and seatpost (much, much longer).
Myself and others certainly had a few cuts and grazes from thrills ‘n’ spills but that’s par for the course. It’s been impressive how grab-and-go the bike has been throughout the time I’ve had it. I suppose a key question with bikes like these mongoose fat bike is whether the £500+ could be better spent on something else? It will totally depend on your personal circumstances. For me, as a parent living in pumptrackland, it’s been a bike that I’ve used – and enjoyed – a lot more than I expected it to.
Mountain biking is a fantastic way to stay active while exploring rugged landscapes and new trails off the beaten path. When choosing the right outdoor bike for your adventure, keep in mind that not all models are designed for this style of bike riding. The best mountain bikes are built to handle tough routes, with durable tires that work for various terrains and sturdy frames for more control. Huffy’s Stone Mountain Bike has a budget-friendly price but doesn’t compromise on performance or features, making it our favorite option for younger riders looking to get into mountain biking. During testing, we noticed that it’s easy to handle downhill—allowing beginners to grow their confidence—and rides well on roads, gravel paths, and dirt trails. This versatility allows teens to comfortably explore different landscapes while developing their skills.
She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. The bike has also doubled (trebled?) as a pub bike and a camping holiday rag-around bike. By its very nature (and diminutive stature) that any family member or friend can grab it and use it to go to nearest thing they need to go to it on (shop, bar, toilet etc). This bike has lived with a lock permanently attached to it somewhere (seatpost or handlebars usually). The Mongoose Argus Trail is most certainly a unique bike that meets the needs of an extreme niche.
It pairs a shock-absorbing suspension with wheels from Reynolds Blacklabel, another trusted cycling brand. When we tested it, we appreciated how precisely it handled, enabling us to ride confidently across diverse terrain. In addition, with 24-inch wheels, my son’s bikes are getting big enough that I am able to ride them without mongoose bicycle damaging anything. I’m not taking them off jumps or going for sustained rides, but just trying to get the feel and experience of the machine. I am excited to take my son fat biking this coming winter and provide a complete review. Kid sized fat bike frames are rare so taking him out this winter will be a unique experience.
We like that this cross-country bike climbs hills efficiently and can easily take on quick descents. Plus, it can fit three water bottle cages to help you stay hydrated while you ride. It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can ride knowing you (and your bike) are protected.
These bikes are well-developed and can tackle most terrains, making them an excellent all-around option for most riders. The Switchblade Pro’s stiff, strong, carbon frame fits a water bottle and a Pivot dock to keep must-have tools close by. Overall, we like that this mountain bike’s construction promises a stellar riding experience, earning it a spot on our list.
This ready-to-race bike is best for more advanced riders who like to take on longer adventures at high speeds. Best for riding around the neighborhood with friends or crushing local dirt trails. Best for beginners looking to take their next adventure on the road, gravel, or local dirt trails. And we appreciate how responsive it feels, allowing us to quickly maneuver through twists and turns. Best for beginner and intermediate riders looking to tackle a mix of routes, like local trails, intense climbs, or steep drops. Despite ‘amusingly’ saying A+E in the headline of this review, the Mongoose Fireball Moto never caused me to visit the hospital.
Mountain biking can be challenging for beginner cyclists, but don’t let that scare you off—look for mountain bike paths that are relatively flat, straight, and smooth to help you get started. One of the best downhill bikes we’ve found, Yeti’s SB 160 T1 GX/X01 Eagle Mountain Bike handles easily without compromising on climbing ability. The suspension creates a smooth ride, cruising effortlessly over different routes and providing control on almost any trail. Built to handle the most craggy, rugged routes, it’s designed to reduce vibrations for a fun ride. Pivot’s Switchblade Pro XT/XTR Carbon Wheel Mountain Bike is the best multipurpose mountain bike we’ve found.