Navigating the vast landscape of mountain bikes can be a hard task, especially for beginners. The list of options available can make it challenging to select the best mountain bike for beginners that balances quality components, predictable handling, and affordability.
While the choice between a hardtail and full-suspension mountain bikes is often a debate, we generally recommend starting with a hardtail. Thankfully, the best budget mountain bikes can offer a diverse range of options in both categories.
Whether you are a seasoned biker or a beginner, one thing that binds us all is the love for mountain biking. With our list of the 15 best mountain bikes for beginners on a budget, we hope to inspire and guide you in finding the perfect companion for your mountain biking adventures.
Continue reading to know in-depth details of the 15 best mountain bikes for beginners.
The Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners in 2024 [Quick Overview]
In this list, we have included some of the best mountain bikes for beginners that offer excellent value, performance, and durability. Whether you’re looking for a hardtail or full-suspension, there’s a bike on this list for you.
Check out our picks below:
- Vitus Sentier 29 VR – Best Overall Mountain Bike
- Ragley Marley 1.0 – Best Value Hardtail Mountain Bike
- Vitus Escarpe 29 CR – Best Value Full -Suspension Mountain Bike
- Trek Roscoe 8 – Best All-Rounder Mountain Bike
- Orbea Laufey H30 – Best Bombproof Mountain Bike
- Commencal Meta HT AM Origin – Best Mountain Bike for Tough Trails
- Specialized Chisel Comp – Best Mountain Bike for XC Speed
- Cannondale Habit 4 – Best Suspension Mountain Bike
- Nukeproof Scout 290 Comp – Best Mountain Bike for Trail Shredding
- Trek Marlin 4 – Perfect Gateway to Trail Riding
- Specialized Rockhopper Elite 29 Mountain Bike – Best Overall Hardtail Mountain Bike
- Marin Bobcat Trail 3 – Mountain Bike with Modern Trail Geometry
- Surly Karate Monkey Mountain Bike – Best Steel Mountain Bike
- Giant Stance 29 2 Mountain Bike – Best Overall Full Suspension Mountain Bike
- Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Alloy Mountain Bike – Best Mountain Bike for Technical Trails
The Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners in 2024
1. Best Overall Mountain Bike
Vitus Sentier 29 VR
Specifications:
- Travel: 130mm
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: M, L, XL
- Price: USD 1,570.19
Reasons to Buy:
- Marzocchi Bomber fork
- Versatile geometry
Reasons to Avoid:
- Resin-only discs
- No small size available
The popular Vitus Sentier is designed with neutral, trail-orientated geometry, providing a confidence-inspiring ride perfect for beginners. It’s capable enough to handle advanced trails as your skills progress.
This model comes with a reliable 1×11 Shimano Deore groupset and a 130mm Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork. While we recommend the 29er version, Vitus also offers a 27.5 option for smaller riders or those who prefer tighter trails. Moreover, it is also considered as the best mountain bike for beginner females.
2. Best Value Hardtail Mountain Bike
Ragley Marley 1.0
Specifications:
- Travel: 130mm
- Wheel size: 27.5
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: USD 1,758.62
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent fork performance
- Durable Shimano drivetrain
- Dropper post
Reasons to Avoid:
- Smaller wheels don’t roll over features as well as 29
The Ragley Marley is a prime example of how affordable bikes have evolved, bringing advanced tech and features to entry-level riders. Its progressive geometry, combined with the Marzocchi fork, instills confidence on rough trails, enabling new riders to experiment with line choice and develop new skills.
The primary drawback is the use of 27.5-inch wheels rather than the more common 29-inch size. While this reduces the bike’s ability to roll over large obstacles, it increases maneuverability, making it feel more playful on trails and jumps.
3. Best Value Full-Suspension Mountain Bike
Vitus Escarpe 29 CR
Specifications:
- Travel: 150mm (front), 140mm (rear)
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: USD 2,889.17
Reasons to Buy:
- The geometry makes for predictable handling
- Full-suspension confidence
- Incredible value
- Sorted spec
Reasons to Avoid:
- Availability
Vitus has a reputation for producing bikes that ride well at competitive prices, and they’ve outdone themselves with the Escarpe 29 CR. This 140mm trail bike is an outstanding value with a solid spec list. You’ll find front and rear suspension from Marzocchi and RockShox, a Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, and a dropper post. The front triangle is carbon, offering excellent value for a full-suspension trail bike under $3,000.
This bike excels in ride quality too. Vitus’s years of bike design experience are evident in the geometry and suspension kinematics, resulting in a bike that climbs as well as it descends. Whether you’re tackling climbs or descending, you’ll find the Escarpe keeps up with your developing skills.
4. Best All-Rounder Mountain Bike
Trek Roscoe 8
Specifications:
- Travel: 140mm
- Wheel size: 29 (XS has 27.5)
- Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L, XL
- Price: USD 1,999.99
Reasons to Buy:
- It comes with a dropper post
- The geometry makes for predictable handling
Reasons to Avoid:
- Bontrager parts are not premium.
The Trek Roscoe is a hardtail designed for serious riders on a variety of single-track terrain. Its trail-ready geometry includes a 65-degree head tube angle, 73-degree seat tube angle, 430mm chain stay, and a long reach. A rear thru-axle strengthens the rear end and increases wheel compatibility for future upgrades.
The Roscoe 8 is equipped with a 140mm RockShox 35 Gold RL fork, SRAM drivetrain, and Shimano brake components. This model also comes with a dropper post. Budget-conscious riders can opt for the Roscoe 7, while those seeking nicer components can look at the Roscoe 9.
5. Best Bombproof Mountain Bike
Orbea Laufey H30
Specifications:
- Travel: 140mm
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: S, M, L
- Price: USD 2,008.61
Reasons to Buy:
- 140mm fork smooths out the trail
- Durable 11-speed Shimano drivetrain
- Dropper post
Reasons to Avoid:
- Beefy build adds weight
The Orbea Laufey H30 is a hardtail built for aggressive trail riding, featuring a 140mm fork and a dropper post. Its high-quality specs ensure that beginner riders who quickly progress their skills won’t outmatch their bike’s components. The triple-butted aluminum frame is equipped with a Shimano Deore drivetrain and Shimano M201 hydraulic disc brakes. The tubeless-ready OC1 29er wheelset, paired with 2.6in Maxxis tires, enhances grip on the trail surface.
6. Best Mountain Bike for Tough Trails
Commencal Meta HT AM Origin
Specifications:
- Travel: 150mm
- Wheel size: 27.5
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: USD 1,612.05
Reasons to Buy:
- Super-slack geometry
- Big fork for riding hard
- Wide rims
Reasons to Avoid:
- It should come with a dropper post
Commencal, a direct-to-consumer brand based out of Andorra, offers well-specced rowdy rides at prices other brands often struggle to match. The Commencal Meta HT, technically classified as an enduro bike, features a 150mm fork and a super slack 65-degree headtube angle.
Although it may not be ideal for an EWS (Enduro World Series) course, the Meta HT is a robust hardtail capable of descending with confidence. The geometry encourages fast descents and provides enough front suspension to handle rough terrain.
For the price, the Meta HT AM Origin is a great option, equipped with a RockShox 35 Silver fork and a SRAM 12-speed group set. The only notable absence is a dropper post.
7. Best Mountain Bike for XC Speed
Specialized Chisel Comp
Specifications:
- Travel: 100mm
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Price: USD 1,979.24
Reasons to Buy:
- Quality alloy XC frame
- Solid spec list
Reasons to Avoid:
- Conservative geometry
For those more interested in lap times than airtime, the Specialized Chisel range caters to budding XC racers. With 100mm of travel and a lightweight alloy frame, the Chisel is designed to cover ground quickly and efficiently.
Specialized claims the Chisel is one of the lightest alloy mountain bike frames available, weighing in at 1,350g, making the Chisel Comp the best beginner mountain bike for adults as you become more serious about riding.
Stock components include functional name-brand equipment from RockShox and Shimano, as well as Specialized’s own-brand kit, used around the touchpoints, and finished off with fast-rolling Specialized Fast Trak tires.
8. Best Suspension Mountain Bike
Cannondale Habit 4
Specifications:
- Travel: 140 (front), 130mm (rear)
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: SM, MD, LG, XL
- Price: USD 1,990.33
Reasons to Buy:
- Size-specific geometry
- Balanced, agility-biased handling
- Rock-solid lifetime warrantied frame
Reasons to Avoid:
- Relatively weighty
- An offset frame makes some upgrades more complicated
Cannondale’s Habit is marketed as a trail bike, but in capable hands, it reveals itself to be far more capable. This is largely due to Cannondale’s excellent suspension platform, which absorbs trail trauma and allows riders to push themselves without harsh penalties.
The Habit 4 features RockShox dampers front and rear, a SRAM drivetrain, and Shimano brakes. A 150mm dropper seatpost gets the saddle out of the way for descents, while Maxxis tires provide excellent traction in a range of conditions.
Cannondale uses what it calls “Ai Offset” for its frames, which moves the drivetrain 6mm outboard, resulting in a stronger rear wheel and more mud clearance. The downside is the Habit requires proprietary cranks and a special rear-wheel dishing, which should be considered for future upgrades.
9. Best Mountain Bike for Trail Shredding
Nukeproof Scout 290 Comp
Specifications:
- Travel: 140mm
- Wheel size: 29
- Sizes: M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: USD 2,999.99
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent fork
- Durable 12-speed Shimano drivetrain
- Dropper post
Reasons to Avoid:
- No S size
Nukeproof’s Scout has long been celebrated as one of the best hardcore hardtails available. The latest model range, redesigned for 2022, boasts more progressive geometry and a lower bottom bracket, making it more capable than ever.
The Scout 290 Comp features a 140mm Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork, Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, and Nukeproof Neutron V2 Hub wheels with WTB KOM Trail i30 rims. It’s equipped with a Schwalbe Magic Mary Snakeskin Addix Soft upfront and a Hans Dampf Snakeskin Addix Speedgrip at the rear.
If you’re seeking an aggressive hardtail for trail shredding, the Nukeproof Scout is sure considered as the best mountain bike for beginners.
10. Perfect Gateway to Trail Riding
Trek Marlin 4
Specifications:
- Front Fork: 100mm
- Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes
- Drivetrain: 3X7
- Price: USD 507.35
Reasons to Buy:
- Budget-friendly
- Versatile: Suitable for trails and can be upgraded for daily commuting
- Designed for tough, technical terrain
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited gear range with a 3X7 drivetrain
- Mechanical disc brakes, while functional, may not provide the same stopping power as hydraulic disc brakes
The Trek Marlin 4 is a versatile mountain bike that is among the best budgets for beginners. With a 100mm front fork,mechanical disc brakes, and a 3X7 drivetrain, it offers comfort, safety, and capability at a reasonable $530 price point.
The Marlin 4 is suitable for both trails and daily commuting and can be easily upgraded with mounts for a back rack and fenders. It’s designed to handle tough, technical terrain without compromising performance. The best brand of mountain bike for beginners who are looking to get started in mountain biking.
11. Best Overall Hardtail Mountain Bike
Specialized Rockhopper Elite 29 Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Hydraulic
- Fork Travel: 100mm
- Rear Travel: N/A
- Dropper: No
- Weight: 30 lb.
- Price: USD 941.02
Reasons to Buy:
- Awesome brakes
- Fast climbing
- Excellent balance of performance and value
Reasons to Avoid:
- Quick-release wheels
The Specialized Rockhopper Elite is a dependable XC mountain bike that balances performance and affordability. Its hydraulic brakes offer great control, and the frame has routing for a dropper post if you choose to add one. The bike’s internal cable routing on the front triangle and mounts for a pannier or rack enhance its versatility.
For beginners looking to start on the trails, the Rockhopper Elite 29 provides an excellent entry point. It climbs efficiently, handles singletrack well, and maintains composure on descents, making it a versatile choice for riders seeking an all-around bike at a reasonable price.
12. Mountain Bike with Modern Trail Geometry
Marin Bobcat Trail 3
Specifications:
- Fork Travel: 120mm
- Drivetrain: Shimano Altus 2X8
- Brakes: Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
- Price: USD 699
Reasons to Buy:
- Ideal for advancing mountain bikers.
- Marin, a trailblazer in the sport since ’86.
- Tektro hydraulic brakes offer strong, durable braking.
Reasons to Avoid:
- It may be too expensive for some beginners
The Marin Bobcat Trail 3 is an entry-level mountain bike that offers some nice upgrades for those looking to get more serious about mountain biking. With Marin’s legacy as a pioneer in the sport since 1986, the Bobcat Trail 3 is a reliable choice to get you on the trail and keep you riding for years to come.
The Suntour front fork provides 120mm of travel, which is more than any other bike on this list, offering a smoother ride on rough terrain. The Shimano Altus 2X8 drivetrain is sturdy and provides plenty of gear options for varied terrain.
The Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are a standout feature, offering superior braking power and durability compared to mechanical disc brakes. With a price tag of $699, the Marin Bobcat Trail 3 may be a bit more expensive than other entry-level bikes, but it’s a worthwhile investment for those looking for a reliable bike with quality components.
13. Best Steel Mountain Bike
Surly Karate Monkey Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Steel
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Travel: 140mm
- Dropper: Yes
- Weight: 32 lb.
- Price: USD 2,511.14
Reasons to Buy:
- Robust, durable build
- Several mounting points for customization
- Clearance for 27.5- or 29-inch tires
Reasons to Avoid:
- Heavy
The Surly Karate Monkey is a solid hardtail mountain bike designed for trails and long-distance bikepacking. With a steel frame, it is robust and durable, albeit heavy. Its balanced geometry and ample clearance for 29- or 27.5-inch tires make it versatile for a range of terrain.
The Karate Monkey is highly customizable, featuring several mounting points for accessories and cargo. Its hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, and the inclusion of a dropper post enhances its versatility.
Overall, the Surly Karate Monkey is a dependable option for riders seeking a rugged and capable hardtail mountain bike with the ability to handle both trails and bikepacking adventures.
14. Best Overall Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Giant Stance 29 2 Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Fork Travel: 130mm
- Rear Travel: 120mm
- Dropper: No
- Weight: 31 lb
- Price: USD 1,757.22
Reasons to Buy:
- Great roll-over ability for rocky terrain
- Wide gear range for comfortable climbing
- Fairly light for a full-suspension build
Reasons to Avoid:
- No dropper post
The Giant Stance 29 2 Mountain Bike is a budget-friendly full-suspension bike that offers great performance on the trail. Its big wheels make it agile and comfortable to ride over rocky terrain, while its wide gear range allows for comfortable climbing.
At its price, weight, and build, it is considered one of the most accessible bikes on the market. The bike features hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power and a comfortable and solid geometry. It is a great option for riders who want a versatile and capable bike at an affordable price.
15. Best Mountain Bike for Technical Trails
Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Alloy Mountain Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Fork Travel: 140mm
- Rear Travel: 130mm
- Dropper: Yes
- Weight: 34 lb
- Price: USD 3,641.36
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent suspension
- A balance of performance and price
- Great tires
Reasons to Avoid:
- Relatively pricey
The Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Alloy is a full-suspension mountain bike designed to handle bumpy terrain with its cushy fork and rear suspension. Its durable frame, excellent geometry, and responsive handling make it the best beginner mountain bike for trails and a comfortable ride for steep climbing.
Specialized is known for making accessible models for any rider, and the Stumpjumper Comp Alloy is no exception. Its clean build, velvety suspension, and solid FSR design with Fox suspension make it a reliable choice for any newcomer looking for a dependable ride.
The Stumpjumper Comp Alloy may be on the pricier side, but its performance and build quality make it a worthwhile investment for riders seeking a comfortable, capable, and durable mountain bike.
How to Select the Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners
Selecting the best mountain bikes for beginners can be an exciting yet daunting task, given the array of options available in the market. However, by considering several key factors, you can narrow down your choices to find the perfect bike that suits your needs.
Here’s a guide to help you select the best mountain bikes for beginners:
1. Type of Mountain Bike:
Decide on the type of mountain bike based on the type of riding you plan to do:
- Cross-Country (XC): For smoother, less technical terrain.
- Trail: For a variety of terrain including singletrack, jumps, and technical descents.
- Enduro: For more aggressive riding and descending.
- Downhill: For extreme terrain and downhill racing.
- Fat Bikes: For snow, sand, and other soft surfaces.
2. Wheel Size:
- Choose between 26-inch, 27.5-inch (650b), and 29-inch wheels.
- Generally, larger wheels offer better rollover capabilities and stability.
3. Frame Material:
- Aluminum is common for beginners due to its durability and affordability.
- Carbon fiber is lighter and offers better damping but is more expensive.
4. Suspension:
- Hardtail: Front suspension only, lighter and easier to maintain.
- Full-Suspension: Front and rear suspension offers better traction and control, but more complex and expensive.
5. Brakes:
- Mechanical Disc: Affordable but less powerful and requires more maintenance.
- Hydraulic Disc: Powerful, reliable, and offers better modulation, but more expensive.
6. Drivetrain:
- More gears provide a wider range of speeds and make climbing easier.
- Entry-level drivetrains are typically 2×8, offering enough range for most beginners.
7. Budget:
- Determine your budget and stick to it.
- Look for bikes that offer good value for money in your price range.
8. Fit and Comfort:
- Test ride bikes to ensure they fit you properly and are comfortable.
- Pay attention to the saddle, grips, and handlebar width.
9. Research and Reviews:
- Read reviews and compare different models.
- Look for bikes with positive feedback from other beginners.
10. Consider Future Upgrades:
- Some bikes can be upgraded as your skills improve, while others may require replacing components or even the entire bike.
- Consider your long-term goals and whether you want a bike that you can upgrade or grow into.
11. Consult with Experts:
- If you need clarification, consult with bike shop staff or experienced riders for advice.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose the best mountain bike for beginners that matches your riding style, skill level, and budget. Remember, the most important thing for the best mountain bike for beginners is to find something that you feel comfortable and confident on, as this will ultimately enhance your riding experience.
Which Type of Mountain Bike is Recommended for Beginners?
Trail bikes are the best option for beginners. They are versatile, with around 120-140mm of travel, providing stable handling and geometry that allows for all-day rides or laps in the bike park. They are the best dual suspension mountain bike for beginners or hardtail, and designed to do everything well. This category of bike will grow with you as your skills improve, making it the best mountain bike for women beginners.
What Essential Details Should I Be Aware of Regarding Bike Suspension?
Suspension is a crucial component of a mountain bike that absorbs shock and helps to maintain control over rough terrain. Here are some essential details to be aware of regarding bike suspension when considering to buy the best mountain bikes for women beginners:
1. Types of Suspension:
- Fork Suspension: Located in the front of the bike, fork suspension helps absorb impacts from the front wheel hitting obstacles.
- Rear Suspension: Located near the rear wheel, rear suspension helps absorb impacts from the rear wheel hitting obstacles.
2. Travel:
- Suspension travel is the distance the suspension can compress under load.
- Higher travel provides more cushioning over rough terrain.
- Entry-level bikes typically have less travel than high-end models.
3. Sag:
- Sag is the amount the suspension compresses under the rider’s weight when seated.
- Proper sag settings ensure the suspension operates effectively.
- Sag can be adjusted using air pressure, spring tension, or preload settings.
4. Compression and Rebound:
- Compression damping controls how quickly the suspension compresses.
- Rebound damping controls how quickly the suspension returns to its original position.
5. Fork Stanchions and Seals:
- Fork stanchions are the tubes that slide into the fork lowers.
- Seals keep dirt and debris out of the fork and ensure smooth operation.
6. Maintenance:
- Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to keep suspension components functioning properly.
- Some suspension systems require periodic servicing by a qualified technician.
7. Hardtail vs. Full-Suspension:
- Hardtails have suspension forks but no rear suspension.
- Full-suspension bikes have both front and rear suspension.
- Hardtails are generally more affordable and easier to maintain, making them a good choice for beginners.
8. Suspension Design:
- Suspension design impacts how the bike behaves over bumps and rough terrain.
- Different manufacturers use different suspension designs to achieve specific ride characteristics.
9. Adjustability:
- Some suspension systems offer adjustable settings for compression, rebound, and lockout.
- Adjustable suspension allows riders to fine-tune their bike’s performance for specific riding conditions.
10. Frame Geometry:
- Suspension affects a bike’s geometry, including head tube angle, seat tube angle, and bottom bracket height.
- Modern suspension designs are optimized to maintain stable handling and efficient pedaling performance.
11. Personal Preference:
- Suspension preferences vary among riders based on riding style, terrain, and personal comfort.
- Test riding different suspension setups can help you determine your preferences.
By understanding the essential details of bike suspension, you can make informed decisions when selecting a mountain bike and fine-tune its performance to suit your riding style and needs.
What is a Suitable Budget for My Initial Investment in a Mountain Bike?
The budget for your initial investment in a mountain bike depends on how much you have to spend and the value you place on riding. While there aren’t many genuinely bad bikes nowadays, it’s essential to remember that you get what you pay for in terms of quality.
A lower-priced bike may be specked with inferior parts and may end up costing you more in the long run due to replacements. On the other hand, seasoned mountain bikers may justify spending more on a high-quality bike due to the comfort and ride characteristics that come with it. When purchasing the best women’s mountain bikes for beginners, don’t forget to budget for essential accessories such as a helmet, multi-tool, and pedals.
FAQs – Best Mountain Bike for Beginners
What Mountain Bike Should I Get as a Beginner?
For beginners, hardtail bikes are generally a good starting point as they are easier to maintain and less expensive than full-suspension bikes. A highly recommended model is the Vitus Sentier 29 VR for its versatility and excellent performance.
For those preferring a hardtail, the Ragley Marley 1.0 is another great option. If you’re interested in a full-suspension bike, consider the Vitus Escarpe 29 CR for its smooth ride and solid build. Your choice should ultimately depend on your budget and preferences.
Are Trek Bikes Good for Beginners?
Yes, the performance road bikes from Trek offer a superior riding experience for both beginners and experienced cyclists. These bikes are lightweight, aerodynamic, and provide excellent handling. Whether you’re looking for the best Mountain bike for beginners to tackle challenging climbs or enjoy long rides on the road, a Trek performance and race bike could be the perfect fit for you.
What Bike Should a Beginner Start On?
The ideal engine size for a beginner rider is often considered to be less than 600cc. This size provides sufficient power for comfortable handling while allowing riders to develop their skills and gain confidence. It’s essential to choose best mountain bike for beginners adults that matches your riding style and comfort level.
Where Can One Reliably Find Beginner-Friendly Second-Hand Mountain Bikes?
There are several good places to find used mountain bikes, both online and offline. Local used bike shops often have a variety of bikes available. Online marketplaces such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay also have active bike trading communities.
How Do You Know If a Mountain Bike for Beginners is Bad Quality?
To determine the quality of a mountain bike, particularly if it’s a beginner bike you found on Craigslist, consider the following:
- Check for disc brakes: They are more efficient and require less maintenance compared to rim brakes.
- Beware of bikes with seemingly excellent features at a low price; they may have compromised components.
- Inspect for any degraded or broken parts; it should be in drivable condition without requiring major repairs.
Wrapping Up!
When starting your journey and trying to find the best Mountain bike for beginners, finding the right bike is crucial. Key points to remember are ensuring your bike has reliable disc brakes, opting for a trusted brand over flashy features for better quality, and making sure it’s in good condition to avoid unnecessary repairs.
Whether buying new or used, a well-equipped mountain bike that suits your needs and is built with quality in mind is the best investment for a beginner’s safety and enjoyment on the trails.