Top 6 Best Beginner Full Suspension Mountain Bikes 2024 – Buying Guide

Honestly, when you are picking the mountain bikes, you can pretty much mess up and especially in the case of the Best Beginner full suspension Mountain Bike. These full-suspension cycles provide you with the best quality riding experience but they really cost much more as compared to others.

Full suspension bikes are best known for their comfortable rides in long-distance trains and downhill rides, having wheels of around 29 inches and 26 inches.

Their design, features, and performance are different as compared to the other mountain bikes. But there are various categories in Full suspensions like Cross Country, Enduro, Downhill, and Trail.

So, the only problem that remains is picking the right product as a beginner. Well, here in our article we compiled a list of the best products made specifically for newbies. Let’s hop right into the details!

Comparison Table Of Our Best Beginner Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

Products	Tire Size	Brake	Material	Suspension	Speed Gears	Price
Schwinn High Timber	Schwinn High Timber	24 inches	Linear Pull	Steel	Front	21	Check On Amazon
Schwinn Protocol 1.0	Schwinn Protocol 1.0	26 inches	Linear Pull	Steel	Dual	24	Check On Amazon
Schwinn S29 Men’s	Schwinn S29 Men’s	29 inches	Mechanical Disc	Aluminium	Dual	21	Check On Amazon
Mongoose Status 2.2	Mongoose Status 2.2	26 inches	Linear Pull	Aluminium	Front	21	Check On Amazon
Mongoose Salvo	Mongoose Salvo	29 inches	Disc	Aluminium	Dual	12	Check On Amazon
Diamondback Atroz	Diamondback Atroz	27.5 Inches	Hydraulic Disc	Aluminium	Dual	9	Check On Amazon

1. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike 

When you are looking for something perfect for trail rides or a neighborhood, then you can definitely place your bet on the Schwinn High Timber. In comparison, it can cope with various terrains and situations in a really affordable range.

While the quality of your ride and comfort level is perfect just because of these full suspensions. All in one, the best thing about Schwinn High Timber is its frame, design, ride quality, and drivetrain that make it what it is best known for.

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Starting off with the design of the Schwinn High Timber, it comes with a really sturdy frame, not only providing you with exceptional quality but also making it durable.

Yes, the frame is made up of none other than steel that can give a bit of weight to the cycle itself which is a drawback, but you don’t have to worry about the life of the cycle itself. You can compare that durability with Diamondback Atroz, but Atroz is a bit lighter than our best pick Schwinn Timber.

The standover frame has less clearance which makes it easy to ride for shorter people. On the other hand, when we talk about physical appearance, there are various colors you can choose from, but they all come with a bit of graphics on top.

Geometry is also important in mountain cycles and considering it as the top pick in our best beginner full suspension mountain bike review, it can pretty much go well around in all types of terrains, whether it is a plain road or it is a rough environment, there won’t be any issues.

In comparison to the Mongoose Salvo, the geometry fits perfectly for most people either it is for kids, adults, or youngsters, everyone can use it effortlessly. On the other hand, the Salvo geometry is suitable for some people.

Finally, the best feature that comes in this product that is not found in its competitors is the Quick release seat. You can effortlessly adjust the sitting position along with the seat while cycling.

Moving forward to the performance side, you will find a set of quality gears that can shift much smoothly and effortlessly. It comes packed with the Shimano 21 Speed shifters followed by the derailleurs on front.

You won’t have to worry about the tires on this product because of the all-terrain alloys that are both durable and lightweight, yet they perfectly fit on the surface. Yet, the size of the tire is around 24 inches, which is perfect for every height.

All other things are exceptional except the Braking system and you will be presented with the old Linear pull brakes or commonly called the V brakes, which are not the best out there.

So, the braking system of the cycle is its drawback, but don’t worry, they are averagely built, providing simply stopping power in various scenarios. On a good note, you can upgrade the braking system of the cycle because of its effortless assembling.

On our list, if you compare this V-Braking system to the Mechanical Disc Brakes on Schwinn S29, Protocol 1.0, or Hydraulic DiscMongoose Salvo, the V-Braking system isn’t much capable but the usability of these products are limited to certain areas, which is what the Schwinn Timber is all about.

Last but not least, when we talk about the suspension system, this cycle really shines alongside its competitors. Not only does this provide you with a comfortable ride but also takes care of all the bumps.

All in one, if you are really looking for a cycle with great riding experience as a beginner, that can go well with all types of terrains and can give you quality manufacturing inside a short budget. Then, you should go to the Schwinn High Timber. But, keep in mind the braking system and the height of the cycle can be an issue for some people.

2. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Men’s Dual Suspension Mountain Bike

Not many people are looking for a comfortable seat, some like to get the best performance in their products. Here we have the Schwinn Protocol 1.0, which is best out there for its braking system, quality, and design in a budget.

Primarily when we are talking about the design of the cycle we need to consider the latest new physical appearance. In comparison to the Schwinn High Timber, this cycle has a really downhill frame, which has several usabilities.

The manufacturing of the cycle is done with Aluminum, which makes it lightweight around 43 pounds, but what about the durability of the bike? Fascinatingly, there is a rear frame made up of steel, which makes the cycle more durable yet lightweight in comparison to other products in our list of best beginner full suspension mountain bikes.

Physically, the cycle has a really sporty look to it, having shocks on the middle and the wires moving from the gear system to the handle. Yes, it does provide a bit of un-comfortability to the rider but the performance compensates for its uncomfortably.

So, the performance of the cycle is what makes it into our list and on the Gear side, it has the 24-speed trigger shifters called Shimano EF-50. The brake system of the cycle is also impressive, coming with the mechanical brakes on both front and back, while most people don’t know that it also has a combination of linear-pull brakes on the rear that provide the optimal stopping to your cycle.

Finally, when we talk about the performance, it is important to mention the Tire type, gearing, and the maintenance of the cycle. Believe me, you can use the cycle in every condition due to the large 26-inch tires having the best grips on them.

The gearing system is also incredible due to the Alloy cranks provided by Schwinn, requiring the least amount of maintenance over time. Furthermore, the rims are strong alloys and have a lighter weight to them, providing you with the best control over the cycle.

All in one, if you are actually looking for a performance-driven quality full-suspension cycle on a budget, then surely Schwinn Protocol 1.0 is the best one to place your bet on.

3. Schwinn S29 Mountain Bike Full Suspension

Talking about off-road riding on a budget, here we have the Schwinn S29 Men’s which in comparison to the Schwinn High Timber and Protocol 1.0 is a little bit different.

Both of these products in our best beginner full suspension mountain bike review have all-terrain tires along with a bit of tweak to the design and performance that makes them best for rough purposes, but when we talk about the Schwinn S29 Men, it beats all others in terms of off-road drive.

On the design side, the Schwinn S29 comes with a really sporty black physical appearance, and the manufacturing is done of Aluminum. Typically the Aluminum manufacturing makes the product lightweight, but the drawback here is the durability.

But you don’t have to worry because here the manufacturers took extra steps to provide you with a layer of matte finish on top that makes the product a bit more strength-driven so that you can use it even in rough environments.

In comparison to other Schwinn products on our list, this one is a bit more lightweight and agile, proving useful for stuntmen and off-road drivers. Speaking of off-road use, let us talk about the performance of the cycle.

First of all, on the performance side, Schwinn S29 has one of the largest wheels around 29 inches and thanks to its usability, it goes well on downhills, single tracks, and off roads.

Forward on the gear side, it has 21-speed gears that provide you with a wide range of riding scenarios. Gears are followed by derailleurs that make the swift extra smooth and precise, providing you with a user-friendly performance.

Typically, most of the products comparable to Schwinn S29 are single alloy rimmed, but here you have the triple crankset alloy and freewheel with seven speeds to make the riding experience exceptional.

Finally, when it comes to the braking system, you get the best out there. A mechanical disc braking system on both the back and the front followed by steady speed control makes the cycle stop whenever you want to without losing any balance or slipping.

If you are actually looking for something to go for a few off-road drives like into parks, downhills, trails, or such, then you can blindly pick Schwinn S29.

4. Mongoose Status 2.2

Looking for a mountain cycle with stronger performance and attractive appearance, here is the Mongoose Status 2.2, which is meant for people who like trick riding, mountain biking, or simply riding in urban areas or parks.

Starting off with the design of the Cycle, it has the most beautiful physical appearance out of all the products we have in our best beginner full suspension mountain bike review. Schwinn S29 has a somewhat similar design but the neatness manufacturers went within the Mongoose Status 2.2 is flawless.

Furthermore, the material is Aluminum, which is compressed to make the bike look sleeker, also this material makes the cycle a bit more lightweight to handle and can survive various terrains. Measurements of the frame are 16 inches on the women’s version, but on the male version, this same product is at 18 inches.

You can also adjust the height on both the handle and the seat according to your own. Due to the lower stand-off clearance, you can effortlessly sit on it as well. Overall, the sporty design along with lightweight features makes the whole riding experience flawless.

Moving onto the next part, which is the performance of the cycle. In comparison to other products we have in our list like the Schwinn Timber, Schwinn Protocol, and Mongoose S29, this one right here has an element suspension component on the front which serves its purpose to smoothen ride by neglecting humps on the front.

The same is available on the rear shock, where the function of these suspensions is to absorb the extra vibrations on trails. Because of all-terrain use, you get a really smooth and comfortable riding experience in this product.

The shifters or gears on the Status 2.2 come with various 21 levels of speed and the control itself is done by the Shimano Derailleurs followed by the famous SRAM twist shifters, according to the Mountainbikeez.

The combination of Derailleurs and Twist sifters allows the cycle to effortlessly change the speed, while automatically adapting to other scenarios and conditions of climate. Whereas durability is also a factor for which you won’t have to worry about in the future.

Lastly, on the braking system and cycle tire, you get the linear-pull brake on this one, which is the drawback of the product. On various products of the same caliber, you are getting the Mechanical and Normal Disc brakes, but the V Braking system takes a hit on the performance of the cycle.

The tires are tough and durable, having a grip on them to work on all types of terrains. Size is near to 26 inches which is the perfect balance between large and small, making it useful for all types of heightened people. The rims are an alloy made and go well with the design and tire type of bike.

So, if you are actually doing a comparison of Status 2.2 with other products, you will get to know that it is a normal day cycle with a really attractive design and a really budget-friendly price range as well.

5. Mongoose Salvo Adult

A strange but totally understandable bike, Mongoose Salvo Adult is a product that is made for people who want something top-notch, totally unique, and comfortable to ride.

First and foremost, let us talk about the design of the cycle. Yes, it has the strangest geometry not found in any other product on our best beginner full suspension mountain bike review.

In comparison, it has a much larger top tube in length, while there are shorter stems that make the whole design controllable, responsive, and balanced. You simply have to steer your way around and the cycle handles the rest.

On the manufacturing side, it has the tectonic T2 Aluminum which not only makes it more durable in comparison to the simple aluminum but also makes it more lightweight.

The drawback of this design is that the cycle itself doesn’t work around for everyone, rather people who have a specific sitting posture. Besides this, you can adjust the seat and the handle according to your liking.

Now let us take a dip into the performance of the bike. Starting with the Suspension system, it has the Free Floating Technology in its suspensions that are not like the other shocks or front suspensions found in products, rather a limiter to the brake jack that provides optimal control to bike

The wheel sizes are 29 inches that work well in various terrains, but the site itself is large enough to limit the use for shorter people. Besides, you are well off with these types of tires in every scenario out there.

Fascinatingly, there is more to this bike than just tires and fancy suspensions, it also has the BR-M201 Hydraulic Disc Brakes from Shimano, which are fascinatingly the best on our list, throwing mud to even the likes of Schwinn products.

Lastly, there are 12-speed configurations or gears which are SRAM followed by the SX Powerspline cranks and the SC eagle Derailleurs/Shifters. Well, this bike has all the top-notch features you can find in a beginner-friendly mountain bike out there.

So, when the price isn’t a real problem and you want to get the top-line features in a versatile product, then getting your hands on Mongoose Salvo Adult is the right thing to do.

6. Diamondback Atroz Mountain Bike 

Last but not very least, we have here the Diamondback Atroz which is no doubt built differently in comparison to all the products. Its specialty is manufacturing that makes it stronger and more premium than all the other products.

The physical appearance of the cycle is a bit tall standing with a taller standover clearance, while there is a shock in between the frame on center. Short people will have a bit of a problem while sitting on the cycle, but the shocks can be adjusted to go a bit low.

The manufacturing materials are Aluminum alloy, which are hand-built frames providing durability alongside competitors. Color is royal blue physically, while there are fewer graphics provided in the cycle, making it feel premium.

This product also features amazing performance features alongside its design. There are the SRAM 9 gears that make the gears work out in various terrains without wear and tear. While the bearings are single pivot sealed that further enhances the durability of the product.

Talking about the suspensions, on the rear side, it has the RockShox Monarch R and on the other side, it has the  SR Suntour XCM forks, providing you with the best riding experience ever.

Lastly, the braking system, has the best of the best which is the Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc braking system, instantly stopping the bike when you want to. So, when you want a durable product that can go well with you for years, then Diamondback Atroz is the right to bet on.

Buying Guide For Best Beginners Full Suspension Mountain Bike

Now that we have all the products sorted out in our best beginner full suspension mountain bike review, you might be wondering about picking the right one for your scenario. Here, we have the Buying Guide to help you get the right product for your setup. Without further ado, let’s go into the details of the Buying guide of our article!

Geometry or Design

The first thing you need to consider inside full suspension bikes is their geometry. Frankly speaking, geometry is the only thing that can’t be upgraded in a mountain bike.

Some brands make the bikes cheaper by simply using the decades-old designs or they use the shorter frames to make the cycles. So, this not only makes the bike uncomfortable for you but also makes it useless in various scenarios.

You need to look at the aerodynamics of a bike, the angles it has in its geometry and the comfort level it can provide to certain people. For your guidance let us take an example that a 120mm bike should have at least an angle of 67 degrees. If you move forward to make the bike move faster because of aerodynamics, the angle will be 65 and the distance will extend up to 150mm.

Suspension

Suspension is mainly the part where the cheap and the professional products take a really hard hit. Ranging from the size to the quality of the suspension, you can get a really good and comfortable riding experience or a horrible one.

Just like the products here in our articles like the Schwinn, Mongoose, and Diamondback, all of these cycles have better suspensions. But being inside a specific range, you can see that the Mongoose Salvo has Free Floating technology, which makes it better than all other products.

Same as that, you can consider getting better suspensions if you spend more than usual and in comparison, you can also get the better suspension in a really reasonable price range.

Components

Inside our list, the differences between products are basically dependent on their components. Same as that, when you are going for Full suspension bikes, they are going to be physically the same in some aspects.

You will have to consider their components and the materials that have been used to make the products. Various products come with a V braking system, some come with Disc brakes, others come with Mechanical brakes. While there are some who come with Hydraulic disc brakes.

Yes, the best amongst them is the Hydraulic disc brakes but they are not available in many beginner-friendly bikes. So, the next one is the Mechanical brakes and you should go with either the Mechanical or the simple disc brakes. Same as that, it depends on your own scenario which one is comparably better than the other.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)

What is a good beginner full suspension mountain bike?

A good beginner full suspension mountain bike has various terrain tires, better suspension, and a good braking system. So, Schwinn S29 is considered a good beginner full suspension mountain bike.

How much should I spend on a full-suspension mountain bike?

The range should neither be too much nor should be too less. So, when spending you need to go around 800 dollars to around 1500 dollars.

Is a full-suspension mountain bike good?

If you require a really comfortable ride, then you need to consider getting a full-suspension mountain bike, in this scenario, they are considered good, but they also cost much more.

Why are full suspension bikes so expensive?

The expensiveness is because of the frame, it is much more complicated and has two separate parts, while there is also a need to put more expensive shocks or springs.

What is the best entry-level full-suspension mountain bike?

The best beginner-friendly Full suspension bike is Schwinn High Timber because of its all-terrain use, larger wheels, premium suspensions, and braking system along with gears.

Conclusion

Full Suspension bikes are really the way to go if you are considering getting something beginner-friendly and comfortable. But, the problem is that they are much more expensive and not much different from one another.

You can’t really make a fair decision from those long lists of Full Suspension cycles and for that specific reason, we compiled this article of the best beginner full suspension mountain bikes followed by an amazing buying guide to get you started.

In case you cannot make a fair decision and want to get the best pick recommendation from our end, then our recommendation will surely be the Schwinn High Timber because of its all-terrain usability, its durable steel frames, effortlessly adjustable seats, and quality shifters along with suspensions.