A to Z Guide to Mountain Bike Brands + Pros & Cons of Each

Alchemy Bikes

Alchemy Bikes, based in Golden, Colorado, is a premier bicycle manufacturer specializing in handcrafted carbon and titanium frames. Founded in 2008, the company is known for its innovative designs and has received numerous accolades, including “Best Carbon Bike” at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS).

Among their standout models is the Arktos, a cutting-edge mountain bike featuring Alchemy’s proprietary Sine Suspension system, which enhances pedaling efficiency and downhill performance. A unique feature of the Arktos is its multi-platform capability—riders can easily switch between travel configurations (e.g., 135mm, 150mm, or 170mm) using Alchemy’s conversion kits, effectively transforming one bike into several to suit different terrains and riding styles.

Ari Bikes

Ari (formerly Fezzari), based in Lindon, Utah, is a direct-to-consumer bike brand known for its focus on customization, innovative engineering, and exceptional value.

Founded in 2006, Ari offers a diverse lineup of mountain bikes, including the Delano Peak, La Sal Peak, and Signal Peak, which cater to trail, enduro, and cross-country disciplines. Fezzari is renowned for its Custom Fit Program, which tailors bike sizing and components to each rider’s unique measurements, ensuring a personalized experience.

Their frames are crafted from high-quality carbon or aluminum and feature cutting-edge suspension designs, like the Tetra-Link system, which balances efficiency and control. With a focus on performance, comfort, and customer service, Ari bikes are a strong contender for riders seeking a premium bike at a competitive price.

Banshee Bikes

Banshee Bikes, based in British Columbia, Canada, is a rider-focused mountain bike manufacturer known for producing durable, high-performance bikes for aggressive trails and demanding terrains. They’re designed for use and abuse. The frames are made from a strong and stiff aluminum alloy that one hand makes them nearly indestructible, but on the other hand, makes them heavy and rigid. Some people will love that feel and others not so much.

But what you get for the money is incomparable. Banshee bikes are very affordably priced for what you get, which is a very capable shred sled. Since its inception in 2001, Banshee has built a reputation for innovation and quality, with standout models like the Spitfire, Rune, and Titan.

Another unique feature that sets Banshee apart is the interchangeable dropout options, allowing riders to switch between wheel sizes and axle standards to adapt their bike to different setups.

Canyon Bicycles

Personally, I think Canyon makes some of the most beautifully designed bikes out there – mountain, road, and gravel. Headquartered in Germany, Canyon takes pride in its bike craftsmanship by testing, redesigning, and testing again their frames, forks, and components until everything meets its stringent criteria for excellence.

One big thing that sets Canyon apart is that it’s a direct-to-consumer company. This means that you can only buy Canyon bikes online from Canyon themselves. This cuts down on price but may also make it more challenging to deal with warranty issues or find spare parts.

Canyon also leads in innovation with features like adjustable frame designs, such as the Strive’s Shapeshifter, which allows riders to switch between climb and descent modes seamlessly. The Canyon Spectral is one of their most versatile trail bikes while the Strive and Torque are ready for big Enduro days.

Cannondale

Cannondale is known for pushing the boundaries of mountain bike innovation and design – for better or worse. For example, their one-sided one-sided Lefty Ocho fork is used on several of their lightweight cross-country bikes like the F-Si Hardtail and you’ll either love it or hate it.

While the full-suspension Habit and Jekyll look more ‘normal’ they definitely still have their own design quirks.

Cannondale is owned by Dorel Sports and is based out of Wilton, Connecticut.

Commencal

Commencal got its start in the year 2000 in the mountains of Andorra, a small country landlocked on the border between France and Spain. The brand quickly gained recognition in Europe for being one of the best and more innovative mountain bike brands of the day, especially among downhill racers.

Commencal has built a strong reputation for producing durable and aggressive bikes like the Meta, Supreme, and Clash, which excel in enduro, downhill, and all-mountain riding.

One unique thing that sets Commencal apart is that they only make aluminum bike frames. Carbon is not a very environmentally-friendly material to work with and it can pose health risks for factory workers. In 2012, Commencal made the decision to only manufacture aluminum frame bikes.

Devinci

My first ‘real’ mountain bike was a Devinci Troy and I loved it. I actually loved it to death because I didn’t really know how to take care of mountain bikes back then… But anyway. Devinci Cycles is a small boutique mountain bike brand based out of Quebec. They actually manufacture many of their carbon and aluminum frames in Canada, which is pretty cool.

Devinci has a small (but growing) line-up of mountain bikes covering a range of suspension travel from XC bikes all the way up to the full-on double-crown Wilson. Models like the Spartan, Troy, and Django feature Devinci’s patented Split-Pivot suspension system, designed to provide efficient pedaling and exceptional control on technical descents.

As far as geometry and innovation, Devinci is pretty middle-of-the-road. It’s a great small mtb brand, especially if you live in Canada!

Diamondback

Diamondback, based in Kent, Washington, is a well-established bike brand known for producing versatile and accessible mountain bikes. Founded in 1977, the company has evolved from BMX roots to become a trusted name in the mountain biking world.

Diamondback offers a wide range of bikes, from entry-level hardtails like the Overdrive to full-suspension trail bikes like the Release and aggressive enduro models like the Mission.

Known for its Level Link suspension platform, Diamondback bikes provide efficient pedaling and smooth performance on rough terrain. With options for riders of all skill levels, Diamondback delivers solid performance and value for mountain bikers across the spectrum.

Evil Bikes

A rider-focused brand based out of Bellingham, Washington, Evil is firmly driven by the need to have fun on a mountain bike. Founder Kevin Walsh and his team are located in the Pacific Northwest where steep, rough, and rowdy trails are the norm. Evil bikes are, therefore, unsurprisingly descent-focused.

Signature models like the Offering, Wreckoning, and Following are built with advanced carbon frames and feature Evil’s proprietary Delta System suspension, designed in collaboration with Dave Weagle to deliver unparalleled traction, pedaling efficiency, and big-hit absorption. With a focus on progressive geometry, playful handling, and a unique aesthetic, Evil bikes cater to riders who want to shred hard while standing out on the trails.

Foes Racing

Foes Racing, an iconic California-based brand founded by Brent Foes in 1992, has built a strong reputation in the mountain biking world for its handcrafted aluminum frames (all made in the US) and innovative designs. Foes frames are built to last many seasons all the while withstanding the use and abuse of serious mountain biking and racing.

One thing to note about Foes bikes is that they are sold as frames only. You’ll need to purchase everything else separately and build your bike at home (which is really fun if you know what you’re doing!).

Forbidden Bike Co

Forbidden Bike Co., based in Cumberland, British Columbia, is a boutique mountain bike brand known for its high-performance designs and unique suspension technology. Their bikes are designed and built by mountain bikers for mountain bikers.

Founded in 2019, Forbidden has quickly gained attention for its Trifecta suspension system, a high-pivot design that delivers exceptional traction, small-bump compliance, and rearward axle path dynamics. Signature models like the Druid (trail) and Dreadnought (enduro) cater to riders seeking confidence and control on steep, technical descents.

Forbidden exclusively builds its bikes with premium carbon frames, emphasizing precision engineering and durability. With a focus on innovation and rider-first geometry, Forbidden appeals to mountain bikers looking for cutting-edge technology and standout performance.

GHOST Bikes

Ghost Bikes, founded in 1993 in Waldsassen, Germany, is a well-regarded European brand known for its innovation, reliability, and versatility across various riding disciplines. With a robust lineup of mountain bikes, including the SL AMR, Riot Trail, and Lector FS, Ghost caters to riders ranging from casual trail enthusiasts to competitive racers.

Ghost Bikes balances German engineering precision with affordability, appealing to a broad range of riders. But, the drawback is that their bikes don’t really ‘excel’ at one thing.

Giant Bikes

Giant has been around forever. I remember owning an early Giant hardtail that I would pedal around the dirt backroads of Vermont. Bikes have come a long way since then…

Based in Taiwan, Giant is one of the world’s largest frame manufacturers with offices all over the world. Despite their dominant presence in the bike industry, though, their mountain bikes aren’t particularly innovative or exciting. That being said, they’re absolutely good bikes and a great value if you’re looking for an entry-level mountain bike from a solid mountain bike brand. The mid-travel Reign, Anthem, and Trance are great choices.

Liv is the sister company to Giant, so if you’re looking for a women’s-specific bike you might want to check them out.

GT

GT was founded in 1972 and was one of the earliest mountain bike brands that spearheaded the BMX movement. They still make BMX bikes today but have since branched out into manufacturing mountain bikes (and road and gravel bikes) as well.

GT is in the market of engineering fast bikes and they sponsor some pretty big names on their GT Factory Racing roster and have a storied race history. You don’t have to be a racer to appreciate their bikes, though. The GT Sensor and Force are great full-suspension bikes that can handle a variety of terrain. However, GT isn’t the most glamorous brand and I wouldn’t consider them “top of the line”.

GT is owned by the Canadian conglomerate Dorel Industries alongside Cannondale (see above).

Ibis

Ibis is one of the oldest mountain bike brands out there with ties to early innovators and riders such as Gary Fisher, Charlie Kelly, and Tom Ritchey. Founded by Scot Nicol in 1981 in a garage in Mendocino, CA, Ibis mountain bikes have undergone countless iterations. Today, they remain one of the top mountain bike brands on the market. Popular models like the Ripmo, Ripley, and Mojo feature the brand’s signature DW-Link suspension, designed by Dave Weagle, which offers exceptional pedaling efficiency, traction, and control.

Unlike most corporate bike brands, which lack the freedom to design and innovate freely, the team at Ibis is continuously tweaking and improving its models. Their goal is to create bikes that last and stay relevant in the ever-changing industry. For example, the ground-breaking Mojo is on its fifth iteration and remains an Ibis – and industry – favorite.

Ibis bikes aren’t the most budget-friendly options out there, but their aluminum frame builds (AF) makes them slightly more affordable.

Intense Cycles

Intense Cycles revolutionized downhill mountain biking with the release of the M1, the first full-suspension, double-crown DH bike, setting a new benchmark for performance in 1994. Founder Jeff Steber, a visionary in bike design, developed the M1 prototype and continues to innovate today at Intense’s headquarters in Temecula, CA.

Intense’s lineup now spans the spectrum of mountain biking, from the short-travel Sniper to the cutting-edge M Series downhill bikes. Recently, the brand introduced the 951 Series, featuring the 951 Trail and 951 XC, which cater to entry-level riders with high-quality, accessible designs—available even through Costco, making Intense performance more approachable than ever.

Jamis

The first bike that Jamis released in 1979 was the revolutionary Earth Cruiser, a beach cruiser-style bike that was an instant hit. Since that debut, Jamis has grown into a larger bike brand that encompasses all types of two wheels from road bikes to mountain bikes, fixies, and yes, modern-day beach cruisers.

While Jamis isn’t considered a ‘boutique’ or top-of-the-line mtb brand, it still offers good value bikes that perform well on the trail. Over the years, they have received several awards for best-value full-suspension mountain bikes so if you’re looking for a no-frills bike at a good price, Jamis could be a great fit.

Juliana

Juliana is the sister company to Santa Cruz Bicycles. They are a women’s-specific mountain bike brand, but it is worth noting that Juliana bike geometry is exactly the same as Santa Cruz bikes. What differs is sizing (Juliana offers extra-small bikes), women-specific components like saddles, and a lighter suspension tune that is more appropriate for lighter body weights. Other than that, Juliana bikes are the same as Santa Cruz bikes. I’m a proud owner of both! I have a Santa Cruz Bronson and a Juliana Joplin.

Juliana is named after Juli Furtado, the former “Queen of the Mountain” and one of the fiercest mountain bikers of all time. The brands mission is to inspire more women to get into mountain biking, which I totally support! As you can probably guess, I’m a huge fan of Juliana (and Santa Cruz). Their bikes are well-designed and engineered and they have a model for every type of rider.

Knolly

Headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Knolly was built from the ground up for riders by riders. With access to some of the best and most rugged terrain in the world (the North Shore), Knolly bikes are designed to withstand a beating while still providing great performance.

Personally, I don’t love the design of Knolly bikes (the down tube is weirdly s-shaped), but their bikes do combine progressive geometry with an advanced suspension system to provide great pedaling efficiency, traction, and downhill performance.

Kona

Kona is making a bit of a comeback in the mountain bike scene after a several-year lull where they shifted their focus to roadies.But their updated geometry and wide range of bikes and models have made them a popular mountain bike brand in recent years. They’re a no-frills company with a focus on having fun on two wheels.

The Kona Process is one of their most popular bikes and it comes in several models including short, mid, and long-range travel. The Kona Hei Hei has made its name as a fun trail bike and even as a reliable bikepacking set-up (which is what my best-friend used in Costa Rica).

The main drawback, though, is that Kona bikes are difficult to find online. That being said, their bike shop dealer network is pretty large, so check to see if there’s a dealer near you.

Liv Cycling

Liv is the sister company to Giant and they are one of the industry leaders for women’s mountain bikes (alongside Juliana). Unlike Juliana bikes, though, which have the exact same geometry as Santa Cruz bikes, Liv Cycling makes the argument that women’s bodies are different, and therefore they benefit from different bike geometry. Specifically, women tend to have shorter torsos, longer legs, narrower shoulders, and smaller hands.

Arguments about whether all of this necessitates new design aside, Liv has done a lot of research and testing to create women’s-specific bikes and they are very popular with a lot of women riders.

Marin

Marin Bikes was founded in 1986 in Marin County, California – the birthplace of mountain biking culture as we know it today. Since then, the team behind Marin has designed and built mountain bikes with a mission to create affordable options for every rider.

Today, Marin has a line-up of mountain bikes for all budgets and riding styles from XC charging hardtails to enduro-ready full-suspension mountain bikes. They may not be the most ‘niche’ or progressive bikes, but they are reliable and a great choice for newer mountain bikers or those who just want a simple shred sled.

Mondraker

Mondraker is an interesting mountain bike brand out of Spain that is working hard to bring its bikes to a broader, international market. Mondraker bikes have a unique performance-focused design with a super slim top tube and a proprietary rear suspension linkage setup.

Their cutting-edge Forward Geometry features a longer reach and shorter stems, which (supposedly) provides unmatched stability, control, and precision on technical terrain.

I’ve never ridden a Mondraker mountain bike but I’d love to try one because they look so interesting!

Niner

Based out of Fort Collins, Colorado Niner is a rider-focused brand with an emphasis on great design (although it may not appeal to everyone) and amazing ride quality (Niner bikes do pedal well).

Originally, Niner Bikes started out in 2005 by only selling 29” wheel mountain bikes. Now they offer a wider range of models and wheel sizes, but one thing remains: Niner is committed to dirt and having fun. Whether that’s shredding singletrack or pedaling on gravel roads, Niner has a full line of dirt-ready rigs.

Their proprietary CVA (Constantly Varying Arc) suspension is one feature that helps set them apart. This linkage controls the unwanted movement of suspension components helping make Niner bikes more efficient at climbing.

Norco

Norco Bikes, Canada’s oldest bicycle brand, has been crafting innovative and high-performance bikes since 1964. Located in the loamy evergreen forests of British Columbia, Norco has a large presence in Canada, but you will also see them throughout the US as well.

They have a huge line-up of bikes with over 130 models to choose from ranging from award-winning full-suspension mountain bikes to gravel bikes, road bikes, commuter bikes, and more.

Nukeproof

Nukeproof is the house brand for Chain Reaction Cycles, an online retailer for bikes and bike components based out of Belfast, Northern Ireland. My brother rode both the Nukeproof Giga and Mega for awhile and loved them both, although he did ultimately go back to Yeti. They are solidly built and professionally designed.

Nukeproof has an interesting history of racing and innovation and the brand continues to push the boundaries on what is possible – and what is the future – of mountain biking. World Cup racer Sam Hill rode for Nukeproof for many years and helped them innovate and develop their models.

Orbea

Orbea is a long-standing Spanish brand that has gained a foothold in the US. With roots in Basque Country, Orbea was founded in 1840 (1840!) by three brothers as a rifle and gun company, but they began to manufacture bicycles in the 1930s using discarded materials from producing guns. Orbea was also one of the earliest participants in the Tour de France and has a storied history of road racing.

In 1989 Orbea launched its first mountain bike and since then has continued to innovate and design beautiful full-suspension and hardtail bikes. You can even customize your bike including choosing frame colors, components, tires, and more.

I think Orbea bikes are some of the classiest and cleanest-looking bikes out there!

Pivot Cycles

Chris Cocalis is a long-standing bike industry guy and he founded Pivot Cycles in 2007 with a mission to build the world’s best-performing bicycles. He’s definitely on the right track. Over the last decade, he’s managed to build a company that produces some of the top bikes on the market like the Switchblade and Firebird. Along the way, he’s also sponsored many talented athletes (many of whom have stood on the podium) and done a lot of work with the Phoenix, Arizona bike community.

One feature that sets Pivot bikes apart is their use of the DW-Link suspension platform, a four-bar link system that helps reduce suspension bob and improves traction.

Many riders who love the Pivot mountain bike brand love it because of this suspension setup, but not every rider prefers the feel. Take a Pivot bike out for a demo and see for yourself how it feels!

Propain

Propain is a bike manufacturer based out of Vogt, Germany. Known for its renowned German quality engineering, this is a quality mountain brand featuring exceptional design.

Through constant innovation and attention to detail, Propain bikes has earned a reputation for creating amazing bikes that are built to withstand even the most challenging terrain and conditions. They’re also invested in getting more kids out on the trails with several dialed kids bikes.

The brand was started in 2006 after the founders – Robert Krauss and Markus Zander – came back from a mountain bike trip to Whistler. Since then, they’ve been delivering top-of-the-line bikes all over the world and have a very solid pro-racing and athlete roster including Carson Storch and Rémy Métailler.

REI

REI launched its Co-op Cycles brand in 2017 and has since grown it to include several bike models including mountain bikes, fat bikes, gravel bikes, and even e-bikes. Their first full-suspension mountain bike – the DRT 3.3 – was launched in January 2021 and quickly sold out (like so many bikes did in the pandemic years of 2020/2021…).

Co-op Cycles is committed to making affordable, entry-level bikes so they would be a great choice if you’re just getting started with mountain biking. You also get some REI perks with an REI Coop bike like free flat changes for life (not including parts) and a discount on tune-ups and repairs.

Revel Bikes

Based in Carbondale, Colorado and founded in 2019, Revel is a relatively new mountain bike brand, but it’s comprised of a bunch of industry veterans and awesome riders that know their stuff. The team behind the brand has a pretty lofty goal: to make the absolute best full-suspension mountain bikes in the world. They’re doing that by paying the utmost attention to detail – like optimizing carbon layup technology to create stronger and stiffer frames while using less material.

Revel’s lineup includes standout models like the Rascal, a versatile trail bike, and the Rail, a longer-travel enduro machine, each boasting progressive geometry and sleek carbon frames crafted for performance and durability.

Rocky Mountain Bicycles

With their Development Centre located on Vancouver’s North Shore, it’s no wonder that Rocky Mountain Bikes are fit for rugged and challenging terrain.

Rocky Mountain has been designing and engineering mountain bikes since 1981 and they have built up an impressive line of mountain bikes. My dad rode a Rocky Mountain Altitude for many years and loved it for his rocky, rooty east coast trails.

One thing that Rocky Mountain bikes are particularly known for is their stiff carbon frames and suspension set-up, which some riders may love and others will not.

Salsa Cycles

Salsa Cycles has been around for a while and over the years they’ve become known for making no-frills, but still great, bikes ranging from full-suspension mountain bikes to fully rigid touring rigs. Their focus is more on backcountry overnight adventures, winter fat biking, and everyday fun on two wheels rather than performance and speed.

Salsa was purchased by Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) in 1997, one of the largest bike manufacturers in the world. They remain committed to inspiring cyclists of all backgrounds to get out and enjoy the adventure!

Santa Cruz

It’s probably no secret that I love Santa Cruz Bikes. I ride the Santa Cruz Bronson and the Juliana Joplin (which is the same as the Santa Cruz Tallboy). I love them both!

Santa Cruz is headquartered in Santa Cruz, California and they are one of the most popular and best mountain bike brands on the west coast. You’ll see them everywhere on the trails in California.

Santa Cruz’s designs are progressive and innovative and their bikes are solidly built. Each bike in their line-up gets an upgrade every few years, so you can be sure that you’re getting the latest and greatest mountain bike technology.

Santa Cruz bikes aren’t the lowest-priced options on the market, but they have a lifetime frame warranty and lifetime bearings and they retain their resale extremely well.

Specialized

Specialized is one of the biggest mountain bike brand names out there and they can also be credited – in part – to manifesting the explosion of mountain biking throughout the United States. The Specialized Stumpjumper is one of the most popular and widely recognized mountain bike models ever to be built and it’s still in their lineup today.

Specialized caters to all types and levels of riders with their diverse range of bike models and specs. Their S-Works line is their premium line of bikes, but you can also find budget-friendly and entry-level options as well.

Specialized also isn’t complacent with their models and designs. They continue to innovate and come up with new technologies, which is cool to see from a brand of their size.

Scott

Scott Sports is another long-standing brand that was established in 1958 by a skier and engineer who developed the first aluminum ski pole. It wasn’t until 1980, though, that Scott started designing and manufacturing road cycling products and eventually mountain bikes in the 1990s.

Today, Scott Sports is located in Switzerland and while they may be more widely known for their road cycling presence, they also have a large line of mountain bikes and they sponsor some pretty big athletes including world XC champion Kate Courtney.

In recent years, it seems like Scott has redirected their focus to redesigning and updating its mountain bike line. They recently introduced the proprietary TwinLoc system, which allows you to control suspension and geometry remotely from handlebars.

Transition Bikes

Transition Bikes is located in Bellingham, Washington and they pride themselves on being rider-owned and rider-focused. This means they don’t compromise on quality and they work hard to build and design bikes that riders want to actually ride (i.e. they’re not into ‘fads’ or gimmicky sales pitches).

They also have a pretty great crash replacement program for original and secondhand owners. Transition wants to keep you riding! It’s a fun brand with a cool vibe and if I wasn’t on a Santa Cruz bike, I’d probably be riding Transition.

Trek Bikes

Trek is one of the largest bike manufacturers on the market and they have a huge line of mountain bikes, road bikes, gravel bikes, and more.

They’re not as innovative as some smaller mountain bike brands, but they still stay at the forefront of technology and they are quite popular among mountain bikers, particularly entry-level riders and those who are multi-passionate outdoors people (in other words, mountain biking isn’t their only jam).

To be fully honest, I rode a Trek Remedy 9.9 for half a season and really did not like it. It felt loose and unstable at high speeds going over chunky terrain. That being said, I’ve met a lot of other riders who absolutely love the Remedy! (It seems like Trek has retired the Remedy and replaced it with the Fuel EX).

A Trek mountain bike is a great choice if you’re looking for a well-known brand that offers reliable bikes at a good price.

Yeti Cycles

Yeti bikes are almost idolized by some mountain bikers. You’ll see many riders in Colorado on Yeti’s (they are based in Golden, CO) and their line-up is lusted after by racers and those seeking high-performance mountain bikes. It almost has a cult following. You need to be willing to pay premium prices, though, because Yeti’s aren’t exactly cheap.

What sets Yeti bikes apart is their pedaling platform. The SB line up is designed to be fast and efficient, even on the bumpiest of terrain. But what you gain in efficiency, you lose in comfort. I find Yeti bikes to be a bit too jarring – I prefer my bikes to be smooth and cushy 🙂

But all that being said, Yeti’s are very popular. My brother swears by them and he’s ridden almost every one of their bikes in their lineup!

YT Industries

YT Industries was one of the first factory-direct mountain bike brands to enter the US market and their bikes are known for being top-quality with great components. You can only purchase YT bikes online from them, though, which helps cut down on prices but can also limit their availability.

Based in Germany, YT Industries has a small line-up of mountain bikes, but they get great reviews from riders, and the team behind YT is continuously updating and tweaking their designs.