Best Mountain Bikes Under $2000 in Australia (2024)

Ever wanted to feel the rush of riding off-road on a mountain bike? The only trouble is, good bikes can cost a small fortune! But worry not, Aussie adventurers! This guide is here to show you some of the best mountain bikes you can get in Australia for under $2,000 in 2024. We'll break down the features of each bike, so you can find the perfect ride that fits your riding style and how much you want to spend. Whether you're a weekend warrior or just starting out, there's a fantastic option waiting for you.

Top Picks for Under $2,000 AUD:

Models	Price	Key Details
Marin Team Marin 1	$1,499	Lightweight aluminum frame, RockShox Judy Silver fork, Shimano 12-speed drivetrain (great all-rounder)
Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3	$1,899	Lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, tubeless-compatible rims (versatile for various terrains)
Merida Big.Nine SLX Edition	$1,999	Lightweight frame, Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain, RockShox Judy Silver fork (focuses on climbing efficiency)
Norco Fluid HT 2	$1,699	Comfortable aluminum frame, Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes (comfortable for exploring trails)
Reid Cycles Tract 4	$799	Sturdy aluminum frame, Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes (affordable option for casual riders)
Giant Fathom 29 2	$1,899	Lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes (versatile for beginners and experienced riders)
Cannondale Trail SL 4	$1,899	Lightweight award-winning aluminum frame, 100mm travel SR Suntour XCR-RL fork with lockout, Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain (fun and capable hardtail for singletrack)

1. Marin Team Marin 1 ($1,499):

This Marin bike is a great all-rounder, perfect for both climbing and exploring single tracks (narrow trails). It's got a lightweight aluminium frame, a good front shock absorber (RockShox Judy Silver) and a reliable 12-speed gear shifter from Shimano. The Team Marin 1 is known for being fun and easy to ride, making it a great choice for riders who don't want to spend too much.

2. Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 ($1,899):

Another excellent hardtail option, the Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 is good for taking on different types of trails. It features a lightweight aluminium frame, a dependable 12-speed Shimano drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for good stopping power in any weather. The Marlin 8 also comes with rims that can be changed to tubeless tyres later, which are lighter and less likely to get punctures.

3. Merida Big.Nine SLX Edition ($1,999):

If you're looking for a hardtail that's great for climbing hills efficiently, the Merida Big.Nine SLX Edition is worth checking out. This bike has a lightweight frame, a smooth-shifting 12-speed Shimano drivetrain, and a RockShox Judy Silver fork to absorb some bumps. The Big.Nine is a great choice for riders who love tackling climbs and exploring technical single tracks.

4. Norco Fluid HT 2 ($1,699):

The Norco Fluid HT 2 is another solid hardtail option for riders on a budget. It features a comfortable aluminium frame, a reliable 11-speed Shimano drivetrain, and disc brakes for good control in all weather conditions. With its focus on comfort and control, the Fluid HT 2 is a great choice for riders who want to explore both smooth and moderately technical trails.

5. Reid Cycles Tract 4 ($799):

For riders on a tight budget, the Reid Cycles Tract 4 offers incredible value for money. This hardtail features a sturdy aluminium frame, a capable 10-speed Shimano drivetrain, and basic disc brakes. While it might not have the fanciest parts, the Tract 4 is a fantastic option for casual riders who want a reliable and affordable way to get started with mountain biking.

6. Giant Fathom 29 2 ($1,899):

Giant is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and the Fathom 29 2 is a strong contender in the sub-$2,000 category. This hardtail features a lightweight aluminium frame, a dependable 12-speed Shimano drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping power. The Fathom 29 2 is a versatile bike that can handle a variety of trails, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced riders.

7. Cannondale Trail SL 4 ($1,899):

Craving a lightweight and efficient hardtail for singletrack adventures? Cannondale's Trail SL 4 might be your perfect match. This budget-friendly option boasts an award-winning aluminum frame, a 100mm travel SR Suntour XCR-RL fork with remote lockout, and a reliable Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain with double chainrings. The hydraulic disc brakes provide confident stopping power, making the Trail SL 4 a great choice for riders who want a fun and capable hardtail for exploring trails and conquering climbs.

Hardtail vs. Full Suspension: Picking Your Ride

Mountain bikes come in two main types: hardtail and full suspension. Hardtails have a stiff frame in the back, while full-suspension bikes have shock absorbers at both the front (fork) and back. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:
Hardtail: Lighter and usually cheaper. Great for smoother trails and climbing hills. Feels more connected to the ground.
Full Suspension: Smoother ride on rough trails, soaks up bumps and makes tricky parts easier. Ideal for downhill riding and tough terrain.
For riders on a budget (under $2,000), hardtail bikes give you the most bang for your buck. They're still perfect for many trails and a great way to experience the thrill of mountain biking.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! This guide has hopefully helped you navigate the exciting world of sub-$2,000 AUD mountain bikes in Australia. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for a dependable hardtail or a complete beginner eager to hit the trails, there's a fantastic option out there waiting for you. Remember, the most important factor is to choose a bike that fits your riding style and budget. Don't be afraid to test ride a few different bikes to see which one feels most comfortable and enjoyable. With the right bike, you'll be ready to conquer any trail and experience the thrill of mountain biking for years to come.
Here are some additional tips for choosing your perfect mountain bike:
Think about where you'll be riding: If you'll mostly be on smooth trails, a hardtail bike might be a good option. If you plan on tackling rougher terrain, a full-suspension bike might be a better choice.
Consider your fitness level: If you're a beginner, you might want to choose a bike that's lighter and easier to handle.
Don't forget about the extras: You'll also need to factor in the cost of a helmet, gloves, and other essential gear.

Happy riding!