15 Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes Under $2000 In 2023 | Decline Magazine

Looking for a full-suspension mountain bike? Your budget is $2,000, and not in a position to pay more? We are here to make sure that you don’t go home empty-handed.

We tested out 25+ bikes over different kinds of terrains for comfort, durability, good braking, and other features that go into a good MTB so you get value for your money.

Here’s a lowdown of the best full-suspension MTBs under $2000.

Best Full Suspension Mountain Bike Under $2000

1. Vitus Mythique

Image Credits: Vitus Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130 mm Travel
Shock: 130 mm Travel
Wheel Size: 27.5”/29”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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When Chain Reactions acquired Vitus Cycles, they had only two agendas. The first was to revive the brand, and the second was to build bikes that every cyclist could afford.

Vitus has the most affordable bikes, and Vitus Mythique is one of the most, if not the cheapest full suspension bike I’ve come across.

It’s modern, sleek, sexy, and attractive to the eye. Mythique features an ergonomic geometry that makes it a performer, just like rigs athletes use.

The full suspension bike comes with an alloy frame and X Fusion forks and rear shock, both with 130 mm of travel. The 10-speed bike also features a Shimano Deore drivetrain, but you can upgrade to a 20-gear (2×10 crankset) ride if you wish to.

The Mythique comes either as a unisex 29er or a women-specific 27.5” wheeled bike that men can ride. It’s also packed with the stopping force of the Shimano MT401 hydraulic disc brakes.

When buying the Vitus Mythique, you get a free Brand-X Ascend dropper seat post for more time on the saddle.

This is your typical bike if you love rolling on rocks, and roots and finding a way where there’s none. It’s not a great climber, but forgiving on descents.

It’s a great bike for fun riding at the bike park on the trails, yet you won’t have to break into the vault for it.

2. Marin Rift Zone 27.5 1

Image Credits: Marin Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130 mm Travel
Shock: 120 mm Travel
Wheel Size: 27.5”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension XC Bike

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Marin’s Rift Zone 1 is one of the full cross-country (XC) mountain bikes with great performance at an affordable price range. Their entry-level 27.5 Marin bike has all the right features to make your riding as enjoyable as it can be.

It’s also the lightest bike in the $2,000 price range. The high-quality lightweight aluminum frame and slack geometry make the bike quite great on descents and a great climber.

The Rift Zone is amongst the 1x chainring bikes with the 1×11 Shimano Deore Drivetrain and Shimano BR-MT201 hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors that are powerful enough to stop the bike on its tracks.

The bike comes with a 130 mm travel RockShox Recon fork for the suspension and a 120 mm travel X-Fusion rear shock. Both make the bike fast, even on technical terrain.

Unfortunately, the bike does not come with a dropper post, but you can always upgrade to one sooner or later.

The Rift Zone 1 is an impressive bike that will get you to places and make trail riding exciting. This is your ideal bike if you are just starting and love trails. Besides, you won’t need to spend much to enjoy your favorite sport.

3. Ghost Kato FS Base

Image Credits: REI

Key Specifications:

Aluminum Lightweight Frame
SRAM SX 12 Speed Groupset
Shimano Hydraulic Brakes
27.5” Wheels and WTB Tires

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The Ghost Kato is an epic bike, and although they have a few different models, the FS Base is one of the best value for money in the range.

The frame is aluminum and designed for a rugged trail and all-day comfort. It is paired up with the Suntour XCR Coil Fork, giving 130mm of suspension. On the rear, you have SR Suntour Radion to match that 130mm.

The gearing is SRAM SX Eagle, and this is an epic group set to have on a bike of such a low cost. They have paired these up with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for excellent stopping power and reliability.

Ghost is using their rims here, which are 27.5”, and they are equipped with WTB Ranger tires in 2.25”. This is going to be very agile and grippy. The bike has even got a dropper post for those sketchy descents.

4. Giant Stance 29” 2

Image Credits: Giant Bicycles

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130 mm Travel
Shock: 120 mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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Do you intend to chase those KOMs and QOMs? You can do it with the Giant Stance 29-inch full-suspension mountain bike, one of the best full suspension bikes I have ever tried.

Giant, the most popular bicycle manufacturer, built this bike while targeting cyclists that desire a full suspension bike but can hardly afford the racing rigs.

The result was a very capable bike that didn’t cost an arm and a leg. The Stance 2 comes with a lightweight alloy frame and either Matte Black or Gloss Gunmetal Black color.

With a 130 mm Giant Crest fork and a 120 mm travel Suntour Raidon R rear shock, this Giant bike is one of the most playful budget rigs on the trail.

It’s packed with a 12-speed Shimano Drivetrain that can also push the bike up the hill. The bike is also packed with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes for effective stopping power.

This is your type of bike if you like Giant Bikes. All Stance models are the same, and you can upgrade the fork and rear shock for better comfort.

Otherwise, it forgives on the descents and a fast climber. Stance is the bike to show off to your cycling buddies and outshine them in the races.

5. Diamondback Atroz 2

Image Credits: JensonUSA

Key Specifications:

Fork: 140 mm Travel
Shock: 130 mm Travel

Aluminum Lightweight Frame
Shimano Acera Groupset
Shimano Hydraulic Brakes
27.5” Wheels and Vee Tires

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Diamondback has a great history when it comes to off-road cycling, and the Atroz, in my opinion, is the best budget full-suspension bike on this list.

The frame is lightweight aluminum and is incredible to look at with this elegant grey color. It has Suntour XCM suspension with 120mm of travel, and on the rear, the SR Suntour Radion-R with 100mm.

The group set is fundamental, but it does the job. It is the Shimano Acera M3000 which is running on a 1X system. It is paired with some Shimano Hydraulic disc brakes, and although this is a basic setup, it works well.

The wheels are 27.5”, and they have been paired up with some Vee Tires. Expect good grip and a lot of fun when coming to technical terrain. You get a lot for your money with the Atroz 2. The components are basic, but they will work, and the bike will perform.

6. Vitus Sommet 27

Image Credits: Wiggle

Key Specifications:

Fork: 170 mm Travel
Shock: 170 mm Travel
Wheel Size: 27.5
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Enduro Bike

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Looking for an enduro bike but only have a 2k budget for that? Worry no more. There’s a bike for that budget to make sure you don’t miss the fun.

Vitus Sommet 27 is everything you have always wanted in an enduro bike, but you don’t need a bank heist to own one.

The stunning features of this amazing bike make it appear on this list, and just like they did with the Mythique, Vitus got it right with Sommet.

The Sommet is ready for action, with all the essential features of making your ride doable. To kick off, the most important ones are the RockShox Yari forks with 170 mm travel.

On the rear, you get a RockShox Super Deluxe Select also with 170 mm of travel. On top of that, you get a Shimano Deore 1×12 drivetrain to get you up the hill like it was never there.

This is the best bike for a rider like you if you ride enduro. The Sommet is also the most downhill bike on the list. It’s a great climber as it forgives on descents.

You can ride this bike in an enduro race and scoop the medals. The Sommet is also a great bike to ride on technical trails.

7. Polygon Siskiu T7 29”

Image Credits: Polygon Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork:140 mm Travel
Shock: 135mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Read Derailleur: SHIMANO RD-M6100 DEORE
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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This Polygon Sisiu T7 29 is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of mountain biking without breaking the bank.

The frame is built with lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber, which allows it to handle the rigors of off-road riding.

The suspension fork is designed specifically for mountain biking, so it provides excellent shock absorption and dampening.

The brakes are Tektro HD-M735 hydraulic disc brakes, which provide reliable stopping power even when wet.

When you’re ready to hit the trails, the Polygon Sisiu T7 comes equipped with a Shimano RD-M6100 Deore rear derailleur, which lets you easily shift gears depending on the terrain you encounter.

The seat post has a 150mm drop, which is ideal for most riders. And the saddle is made from high-quality leather, which ensures long-lasting durability.

8. Vitus Mythique 27 VRW Womens Mountain Bike 2022

Image Credits: Chain Reaction Cycles

Key Specifications:

Aluminum Lightweight Frame
X Fusion Forks
Shimano Deore Groupset
Shimano Hydraulic Brakes
27.5” Wheels and Schwable Tires

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We are seeing a lot of women’s specific bikes hit the market, and I love that Vitus has come and hit the market with a women’s full suspension MTB.

The Vitus Mythique women’s version is lightweight aluminum using 6061-grade aluminum. It has an X Fusion RC32 Boost Fork providing 130mm travel and an X Fusion 02 Pro on the rear. The geometry is excellent, and it offers so much as being outstanding off-road without being uncomfortable on the road.

The gearing is the 10 speed Shimano Deore, and although it might not have 12 speeds, it still has a great range of gearing and will work effectively. It has Shimano hydraulic brakes, which are a minimum on any full suspension mountain bike.

The wheels are 27.5”, and they are equipped with mixed Schwalbe tires. It will be grippy, and this setup will give you confidence on those really tough trails.

9. Cube Stereo 120

Image Credits: Cube Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock: 120mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Frame Size: S,M,L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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The cube stereo 120 is a different type of bicycle. Being a German-built bike, you can be sure that the enthusiasm put in designing the unit would appeal to all the passionate mountain bikers.

The strong build of the frame results from the improved hydro-formed aluminum, which adds to its sturdiness.

All other components are made using exceptionally modern materials and build technologies that give the bike an incomparable performance.

The 29-inch wheels are efficient when cruising through the rough terrains and push uphill seamlessly. From its design, the 6000 aluminum frame contributes to its lightweight, which makes it a conventional bicycle.

Both the rear and front suspension features hydraulic disc brakes for better stopping power.

If you are an all-time mountain bike enthusiast, no weather shall stop you from indulging in riding since this bike is designed to ride in all kinds of weather.

This is the appropriate bike for riders who want a long-lasting bike. It is fitted with a weather-resistant shell that will keep your bike free from rust and assures its longevity.

With the addition of the RockShox for both front and rear suspension, the bike gives you a smooth ride even on the bumpiest terrains. Also, the Shimano shifters perform better with the crankset, guaranteeing you a comfortable, smooth, and stable ride.

10. Diamondback Bicycles Catch 1

Image Credits: Diamondback Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock: 130mm Travel
Wheel Size: 27.5
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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The Diamond Bicycles Catch 1 appears to be a muscular bike and both the front and rear suspension feature 130mm travel.

Such sizes are good, especially if you need to beat the local trails. The rear travel is provided by the RockShox Monarch Debonair, which is a favorite among bike lovers.

The RockShox Yari FC provides travel for the front. With the price tag on the Diamondback, it is nearly impossible to get a better fork than the RockShox Yari elsewhere at the same price.

The 27.5″ wheels are very good, especially when you need to maneuver around berms. You can also get through a set of doubles, which should be something interesting for any rider.

The wheels are specifically designed to handle boost to feel extremely stiff and stronger than regular 27.5″ wheels. This is the appropriate wheel for taking the descents.

The gears are provided by the SRAM NX groupset, which has 1×11 gears that you can choose for the uphill climbs.

This makes it ideal if you like riding faster going uphill. The brakes are SRAM level hydraulic disc brakes which have the most intense stopping power as you go downhill.

11. Marin 21 Rift Zone 2

Image Credits: Marin Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock: 130mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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The Marin 21 Rift Zone 2 is one of the best full-suspension bikes that will satisfy you while being gentle on your wallet.

The 29″ wheels are good for propelling the bike in a straight line, but the modern squat and drooping geometry provides the best stability when you want to ride on challenging terrain.

The 21 Rift Zone has its frame updated with the addition of the unidirectional front triangle made from carbon fiber. This bike frame material makes it easy to keep the weight down and maintains the bike’s responsiveness and rigidity.

No need to worry about bumps as the Fox Float DPS rear shock will provide the best absorption. The wheels are Marzocchi Bomber 29″, which have 130mm travel for smoother rides.

With all these features combined with the Shimano SLX SGS 12 speed drivetrain, your bike will be fast in the trails and long distances.

If you like to control your speed, this is the recommended MTB for you. You get powerful and reliable Shimano MT420 hydraulic disc brakes with four pistons.

If you want the most affordable bike amongst high-end full suspension mountain bikes for trail and speed, then the Marin 21 Rift Zone 2 is a bike to consider.

12. Jamis Dakar A1 MTB

Image Credits: Mountain Bike Database

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock: 130mm Travel
Wheel Size: 27.5”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL,
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB material: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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If you prefer a bike that stands out among the rest, do not look further than Jamis Dakar A1 MTB. The vibrant yellow 6000 aluminum frame ensures that your bike is strong and durable.

The front is fitted with a RockShox Recon RL fork, and on the rear, the RockShox Monarch, which together is excellent in absorbing impact, giving you a smooth and uninterrupted ride.

This is what every ride hopes for on the trails. The SRAM 12- speed drivetrain makes gear shifting very smooth, which is good for flawless transmissions when going uphill.

You can also maintain your optimum speed when riding through rough terrains and tough climbs. The 27.5″ wheels are good for maintaining your speeds and weight, ensuring that you have full control of the bike.

They are adequately narrow to provide excellent grip and traction on any terrain, making them more versatile. This is the best bike choice for riders who like lighter bikes. Additionally, you are assured that it will serve you for a long time.

For a price lower than $2000, this bike should be on your mind.

13. Ghost SLAMR 2.9

Image Credits: Ghost Bikes

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock:130mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Frame Size:S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

Check Price

The 29inch Ghost SLAMR is a full-suspension mountain bike worth considering. If you want an all-around bike that you can ride on any trail at any time, then look no further than this bike.

The Ghost SLAMR features a 130mm suspension which is efficient for absorbing all kinds of bumps and obstacles you are likely to encounter when cycling on the trails.

The aluminum construction gives the bike a lightweight frame to avoid exhaustion after a long climb.

The head angle has been improved to allow full control when going on steep descents. This is how you will get to test the ability of the bike to handle all kinds of situations you put it through.

Therefore, do not shy away from taking on the steepest slopes and sharpest corners. The dropper seat post allows for the adjustment of the saddle to a lower level for technical descents.

This makes it ideal for riders who want comfort when going hard on the trails. The RockShox front and rear shocks combined with the Maxxis Minion tires make your ride fantastic.

All factors considered, you will be saving a lot of money by selecting this bike for your trail needs.

14. Norco Fluid FS 3

Image Credits: BikeRide

Key Specifications:

Fork:130mm Travel
Shock:130mm Travel
Wheel Size:27.5”/29’
Frame Size:S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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The Norco Fluid FS 3 is available in variations of 27.5 inches or 29 inches wheels to match your preferences. Built with a 6061 aluminum frame and a new-school geometry, you can be sure the bike is lightweight and a quality bike for beginners.

You, therefore, get a long wheelbase, an inclined seat post angle, and a low bottom bracket height. The combination of these features gives the Fluid FS 3 a stable frame that inspires the rider.

The frame and the rear wheel are linked through a four-bar suspension connection fitted with 120mm travel and Fusion O2 Pro R shocks. The 29″ has a 130mm travel and an X-Fusion RC32 Boost Air fork, making this bike the conqueror of the trails.

The bike is fitted with a special SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain, which will come in handy when going through steep trails. The hydraulic disc brakes give much control, made possible by the easy intonation and unique descending feel.

This is the ideal bike for riders who like riding through rough trails. It’s easy to handle, fast, and bears all the features you have in mind for a reliable bike.

15. Calibre Bossnut

Image Credits: BikeRide

Key Specifications:

Fork: 130mm Travel
Shock: 130mm Travel
Wheel Size: 29”
Frame Size: S, M, L, XL
Frame Material: Aluminum
MTB Type: Full Suspension Trail Bike

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There is no competition with the price stated for this model, but this does not stop the bike manufacturer from delivering a good beginner bike.

The bike has a decent shape, and both the front and rear suspensions are adjustable.

SRAM products appear so much on this bike, with the new SX Eagle drivetrain giving 12 gears and a huge 11-50 cassette. This enables you to maintain your speed by giving a wide range of responsive gears.

A 130mm RockShox RL fork on the front and the Monarch R shock on the rear are what the bike gets. Both these can be adjusted to low-speed compression and rebound damping.

All these combined with the 29″wheels, you are unstoppable on the trails. They give the maximum grip and traction, especially with the front tire that appears to be treaded heavily.

The aluminum alloy frame with the descent geometry makes this bike lighter and reliable, especially when going uphill.

This is the perfect bike for any rider who appreciates good geometry and design. You have to consider the SRAM Level T brakes, which have proven effective when going downhill.

They provide the best stopping power when needed. You can therefore hit all kinds of corners as you desire.

What To Consider When Buying A Full-Suspension Mountain Bike

Do you have to spend a lot of money for a decent full suspension bike?

If you spend $1000 or $10,000, they will both be able to go down the same trail. The only difference will be the $10,000 bike will do it slightly faster and maybe a little more comfortably.

Can I ride a full suspension bike on the road?

Of course, you can. It will wear your tires quicker, and it won’t be as fast, but you will be able to ride on the road fine. I would recommend locking your fork and rear shock out if you can to make the bike stiffer and riding easier.

How much travel does a full suspension bike fork have?

The range is enormous, and typically you will see full-suspension XC bikes with as little travel as 100mm and also downhill full suspension bikes with 200mm+ travel. It depends on what the bike was designed for.

Wrapping Up

Unless you decide to go with a hardtail with better specs and lighter bike weight than a full suspension, such as the Trek X-Caliber 9 or Scott Scale, the full-suspension bikes mentioned above are the best available options in the $2,000 price bracket.

You can also top up to get the bike of your dreams, especially one with a carbon frame. Engage us for more!