10 Best Lightweight Mountain Bikes 2024 – Lightest Bikes Under 28lbs

Lightest Mountain Bikes on the Market

The weight of your bike is a crucial factor especially if you use it for adventurous rides on curvy mountains.

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Editor's Pick
Kent International KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike, 26-Inch
Good Choice
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Front Suspension, Black/Red
Don't Miss
Dynacraft 26-Inch Womens Mountain Bike for Age 15-99 Years
Also Consider
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch, 21-Speed, Lightweight, Dark Blue
Product Name
Kent International KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike, 26-Inch
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Front Suspension, Black/Red
Dynacraft 26-Inch Womens Mountain Bike for Age 15-99 Years
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch, 21-Speed, Lightweight, Dark Blue
Wheel Size
26 Inches
26 Inches
26 Inches
26 Inches
Number of Speeds
21
21
21
21
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
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Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Editor's Pick
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Kent International KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike, 26-Inch
Product Name
Kent International KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike, 26-Inch
Wheel Size
26 Inches
Number of Speeds
21
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Good Choice
Image
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Front Suspension, Black/Red
Product Name
Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 26-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed Shifters, Aluminum Frame, Front Suspension, Black/Red
Wheel Size
26 Inches
Number of Speeds
21
Prime Status
-
Don't Miss
Image
Dynacraft 26-Inch Womens Mountain Bike for Age 15-99 Years
Product Name
Dynacraft 26-Inch Womens Mountain Bike for Age 15-99 Years
Wheel Size
26 Inches
Number of Speeds
21
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Also Consider
Image
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch, 21-Speed, Lightweight, Dark Blue
Product Name
Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike, Stone Mountain 26 inch, 21-Speed, Lightweight, Dark Blue
Wheel Size
26 Inches
Number of Speeds
21
Prime Status
Amazon Prime

Light yet sturdy bikes are highly effective to ride through the mountains while offering stability and better control.

Usually, a bike that is between the range of 28 to 32 lbs comes within the category of lightweight mountain bikes. However, you need to consider its construction and technical aspects to ensure it offers the perfect balance while riding through the mountains.

Trail Bikes

You may opt for a lightweight full-suspension mountain bike such as the Scott’s Spark RC 900 SL AXS or the economical Canyon’s Exceed CF SL 7.0.

Depending on both your requirements and budget specifications, you may select from any of the bikes listed below.

Now without further ado, let’s move on to the reviews…

Our Picks of This Year

1. S-Works Epic Hardtail AXS – Best Lightweight Mountain Bike

S-Works Epic Hardtail AXS

 

S-Works Epic dares you to push the limit and offers a wild, lively, and exciting ride. The carbon hardtail frame is lightest and provides a comfortable touch so you can pound over roots and rocks or ride up steep terrains.

The S-works Epic Hardtail comes with the light frame, but it is more than that.

Other factors that contribute towards the low weight are its specially designed lengthened reach and a relaxed head angle. It gets a short wheelbase clubbed with a predictable steering that makes sure you have a confident ride on any trail.

The uniquely centred rider position will eventually give you a commanding control.

The superior performance of SRAM level disc brakes offers balanced power as well as modulation.

The RockShox SID Brain fork makes the suspension efficient and tight on smoother terrain and absorbs hard hits on rough terrains.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 1.70lbs
  • Grips: Specialized Trail Grips
  • Material: Carbon
  • Max tire size: 29×2.3″
  • Handlebar: S-Works Carbon Mini Rise
  • Stem: S-Works SL, alloy & titanium bolts
  • Brake: SRAM Level Ultimate, 2-piston caliper, hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Roval Control SL, hookless carbon
  • Saddle: Body Geometry S-Works Power, carbon fiber rails, carbon fiber base, 143mm
  • Chain: SRAM XX1 Eagle

2. Super Caliber 9.9 – Best Lightweight Bike for Racing

Super caliber 9.9

 

Super caliber 9.9 is a popular race bike that is known for its lightweight and fast performance. The carbon-dripped bike parts are responsible for its extraordinary performance.

The efficient suspension system offers a light and fast ride in rugged terrains. The unique frame design is different from the standard suspension hardware that we have always been used to.

It intends to decrease the bike’s weight besides ensuring it needs less maintenance.

The design is a perfect blend of traction and efficiency. Offering commendable control to racers to ensures they do not experience fatigue while riding on the tough terrains.  

The bike is designed such that it can withstand the harsh conditions and requirements of off-road racing. The frame design makes the best use of the stiffness-to-weight ratio for amazing ride experience.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: M – 20.48 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes)
  • Grips: ESI Chunky
  • Material: Carbon
  • Max tire size: 29×2.20”
  • Handlebar: Bontrager Kovee XXX
  • Stem: Bontrager Kovee Pro
  • Brake: SRAM Level hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Bontrager TLR
  • Saddle: Bontrager Montrose
  • Chain: SRAM XX1 Eagle, 12 speed

3. F-Si Hi-MOD World Cup – Best Lightweight Mountain Bike

F-Si Hi-MOD World Cup

 

The new F-Si Hi-Mod is a top-class XC race bike that changed the belief of people about the XC hardtail performance. It is lighter, or we can say it is the lightest MTB frame made by the company.

It comes with a blend of responsiveness and control. While descending from the mountainous region, things get dicey, and here the slacker head angle plays a significant role as it controls the ride.

The improved stack is available for optimizing the rider’s position.

The frame is made to offer a comfortable ride with all power transfer for superior performance. The directional carbon layup and flex zones provide shock absorber capability to the seat tube, and rear triangle for better traction minimized fatigue and higher speeds.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 19.40lbs
  • Grips: Cannondale Locking
  • Material: Hard Carbon
  • Max tire size: 2.25
  • Handlebar: ENVE M5, Carbon
  • Stem: Cannondale
  • Brake: Ultimate hydro disc SRAM
  • Rims: ENVE M525 Carbon
  • Saddle: Prologo Zero II
  • Chain: 12-speed SRAM XX1 Eagle

4. Procaliber 9.6 – Best Upgradeable Lightweight Bike

Procaliber 9.6

 

Procaliber 9.6 will allow you to experience the benefits of a carbon race bike at an affordable price. This is one of the lightest full-suspension mountain bikes under $3000.

The bike gives you excellent riding experience, and it offers the freedom to upgrade the parts easily in the future. The stiff and light OCLV mountain carbon frame and IsoSpeed suspension provide smooth riding.

The remote lockout allows you to lock out the fork without taking off the hands.

The Bontrager Kovee tubeless-ready rims and powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless-ready tires make the bike extra-ordinary.

There are two bottle cages, rear brake hose, and the shifter cables run neatly through the frame. The aqua blue graphics on the gloss black finish is appealing. 

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 24.36lbs
  • Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
  • Material: Carbon
  • Max tire size: 29×2.20”
  • Handlebar: Bontrager Comp, alloy
  • Stem: Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm clamp
  • Brake: Shimano hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Bontrager Kovee, double-wall, Tubeless Ready
  • Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, hollow Chromoly rails
  • Pedal: VP-536 nylon platform

5. SCOTT SPARK RC 900 SL AXS BIKE – Best Lightweight Full-Suspension Bike 

SCOTT SPARK RC 900 SL AXS BIKE

 

Coming with high-speed stability and relaxed angles it gets an incredible suspension that eats up large bumps on your way.

The Twin Loc remote system provides highly efficient performance.

The Spark RC 900 comes with glittering paintwork, and it looks like a million dollars bike. If you seek to buy the lightweight full-suspension mountain bike, then Spark RC 900 is one of the best options to consider.

The reclined seat tubes give a relatively short reach of 455mm while you settle into a riding position.

The wheelbase is compact, and the toss in the stem and efficient spark put you in a flat back seated position so you can ride through rough terrains with zeal.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 20.94lbs
  • Seat: Syncros Belcarra Regular 1.0 Carbon rails
  • Material: Spark RC Carbon
  • Max tire size: 2.35″
  • Handlebar: Syncros Fraser
  • Seatpost: Syncros Duncan SL Carbon
  • Brake: Shimano XTR M9100
  • Remote system: SCOTT TwinLoc Suspension System
  • Shifters: SRAM Eagle AXS Controller
  • Chain: SRAM CN XX1 Eagle

6. Chameleon

Chameleon

 

The Chameleon is a perfect hardtail that suits different scenarios, whether it is a racing competition of many hours in rough terrain or you want to enjoy riding at your local space.

It adapts to everything quickly. You can enjoy the versatility and playful handling with the Chameleon bike.

It comes with a carbon fiber frame, which saves 250-gram weight in comparison to the aluminum frame.

The unique frame is paired with giant wheels of 29 inches. This lightweight mountain bike allows you to experience the adventurous riding experience.

The triple-bolt cargo cage is mounted under the down tube, which is an added benefit for adventure enthusiasts.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 26lb
  • Grips: Santa Cruz Palmdale lock-on
  • Material: Carbon C
  • Max tire size: (front) 29 x 2.3in, (rear) 29 x 2.35in
  • Handlebar: Race Face Aeffect R 35
  • Stem: Race Face Aeffect R
  • Brake: Hydraulic disc
  • Rotors: 180mm Avid CenterLine
  • Saddle: WTB Silverado Pro
  • Pedals: Not included

7. Santa Cruz Nomad

Santa Cruz Nomad

 

This Santa Cruz Nomad bike takes you ahead of bumpy steep lanes. This free-ride bike is an aggressive machine and comes with two settings marked as High and Low.

The bike comes in two grades of carbon and aluminum frame. The new generation of this bike is designed for racing. You can easily pedal it uphill and also don’t have to struggle on the way down.

The 65-degree head tube angle keeps it comfortable while you ride downhill or Resort Park. Its 5 degrees steeper seat tube angle place you on an adequate pedaling position while you don’t have to struggle to shift your weight forward while climbing up.

The flip-chip offers fine-tuning its geometry that needs to be kept at a high setting in steep climbs.  The Carbon C frame exhibits strength, and the air shock gives optimal balance.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 31lb
  • Grips: Santa Cruz Palmdale
  • Build Material: Carbon C
  • Max tire size: (front) 27.5 x 2.5in, (rear) 27.5 x 2.4in
  • Handlebar: Race Face Aeffect R, 35 mm
  • Stem: Race Face Aeffect R, 35 mm clamp
  • Brake: Hydraulic disc
  • Rotor: 200 mm Avid Centerline
  • Saddle: WTB Silverado Pro
  • Pedals: Not included

8. Rockhopper Expert 29

Rockhopper Expert 29

 

In the world of affordable mountain bikes, Rockhopper Expert 29 is the leader. If you are looking for a lightweight mountain bike for around $1000, then invest a bit more, and get this premium and durable bike that would cost you around $1,125.

Made of a premium Aluminum frame, this Rockhopper comes with butted aluminum tubes that keep its weight low, providing high strength. The slick internal cable routing and stand-over clearance are also provided.    

The Rockhopper fits every rider and comes with the best wheel according to its frame size. The tubeless-ready tires and rims allow you to ride effortlessly on rough terrain.

The air spring and tubeless wheels are rare in the low-price category. It comes with a quick-release lever so you can change saddle height without using any tool.

The SRAM SX eagle 1X12 speeds provide different gears with easy shifting. The frameworks come fitted with an internal dropper post.

From the RockShox fork to the flashy frame to SRAM SX Eagle drive train and tubeless tires, Rockhopper comes with all the superior quality components that will push your skills to ride hard.

Both beginners and experts will find it an equally handy bike. So, if you are shopping on a budget, then grab the Rockhopper bike without hesitation to crawl over rocks or moderately technical paths.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 29.5lbs
  • Grips: Specialized Trail Grips, lock-on
  • Material: A1 premium aluminum
  • Max tire size: NA
  • Handlebar: Stout Mini Rise
  • Stem: Stout 3D-forged alloy
  • Brake: hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Alloy, Offset Design, Tubeless Ready
  • Saddle: Bridge Sport, steel rails
  • Chain: SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed

9. Top Fuel 9.7

Top Fuel 9.7

 

Top Fuel 9.7 is a lightweight full-suspension mountain bike that is a perfect blend of the efficiency of a trail bike and the capability of a cross-country bike. It is made with an OCLV mountain carbon frame, 115mm of rear travel, and RockShox Reba fork for techy descents and flowy trails.

This unique bike withstands the hard conditions of racing. It is the perfect option when you are looking for a full-suspension mountain bike that is capable of hitting bigger rocks.

The carbon frame is lightweight that will help you pass on rugged paths easily. The hydraulic disc brakes, tubeless-ready wheels, line dropper, and TwistLoc dual remote suspension lockout makes this bike an efficient bike for racing.

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 27.89 lbs
  • Headset: Knock Block Integrated
  • Build Material: Carbon
  • Max tire size: 29×2.40.”
  • Handlebar: Bontrager Comp
  • Stem: Bontrager Rhythm Comp
  • Brake: Shimano hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Bontrager Kovee, double-wall, Tubeless Ready
  • Saddle: Bontrager Montrose Comp
  • Chain: SRAM NX Eagle, 12 speed

10. X-Caliber 7

X-Caliber 7

 

X-Caliber 7 is a fast and lightweight bike that is perfect for racing and local riding. If you are looking for a lightweight mountain bike under 1000, then no doubt, it is one of the right options to consider.

This is a hardtail mountain bike that comes with an alloy frame. The Shimano drivetrain, 100mm RockShox fork, and hydraulic disc brakes are the main components that make it adequate for riding in steep, uneven paths.

The full Boost of 141 hubs offers better tire clearance and wheel strength. The standard hub size allows you to upgrade the wheels whenever you feel the need to increase its performance.

This is a lightweight mountain bike that is worth the value as it comes with many features available in high-end bikes such as internal cable routing, a tapered head tube, dropper post compatibility, and standard hub spacing. .

Bike Specs

  • Weight: 30.42 lbs 
  • Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
  • Material: Alpha Gold Aluminum
  • Max tire size: 27.5×2.80″ or 29×2.40″
  • Handlebar: Bontrager alloy
  • Stem: Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible
  • Brake: MT200 Shimano hydraulic disc
  • Rims: Bontrager Connection, double-wall
  • Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, steel rails
  • Pedal: VP-536 nylon platform

Conclusion

Trek Mountain Bike

You can now easily make the decision to buy a lightweight mountain bike. Look at the different features to know which bike is appropriate for you. Consider your skills and the place where you ride.

Companies are focusing to offer lightweight bikes that do not compromise on additional features.

While comparing the above bikes, it is important to consider the regular roads you ride them at, the budget you have, the kind of convenience you are looking for, etc.

Rating each on these parameters will help you finalize the perfect bike for your requirements.  

Dynacraft Silver Canyon 26" Mountain Bike
  • Sturdy steel frame with deluxe dark gray cloud-effect paint finish
  • 26 inch wheel size for rider 12 years and up or over 57" tall
  • Front and rear alloy V-Brakes with alloy levers
  • 21-speed derailleur with grip shifters
  • Full suspension mountain bike with lightweight alloy rims
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike for Men and Women, 27.5-Inch Wheels, 21-Speed, Steel Frame, Black
  • Lightweight 16-inch steel frame is the perfect bike for rides around your neighborhood or trails. The 24-inch wheel frame fit riders 5’5” to...
  • Bicycle comes with an alloy crank that provides steady gear changes that cause less maintenance
  • Mountain bike has twist shifters with a rear derailleur to make gear changes quick and easy
  • Wide knobby mountain tires sit on a lightweight and durable alloy wheel that adds stability and balance to the rider for all weather and terrain types
  • Front and rear alloy linear pull brakes provide secure stopping power and speed control so you can ride with confidence in a variety of conditions.
Schwinn Bonafide Men and Women Mountain Bike, Front Suspension, 24-Speed, 29-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Aluminum Frame, Matte Black/Red
  • 17-inch aluminum mountain frame with high-performance suspension fork effectively absorb bumps and thumps, while the 29-inch wheels fit to riders 5'4...
  • Effortless gear change with 24-speed trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs
  • Front and rear mechanical disc brakes deliver precise stopping power in any condition, while the durable alloy cranks ensure reliable gearing and...
  • For enhanced durability, the high-profile double-wall alloy rims offer a combination of lightness and strength, while the 2.25-inch wide knobby...
  • Arrives partially assembled, will require tools, Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench 2.5mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, & 8mm, an adjustable wrench, and pair of...
Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike for Kids, Featuring 15-Inch/Small Steel Frame and 21-Speed Shimano Drivetrain with 24-Inch Wheels,...
  • Steel frame is lightweight and strong
  • Alloy wheels
  • 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur
  • 3 piece cranks
  • Front & rear linear pull brakes
Hiland Mountain Bike, 3/6/Multi-Spokes,Shimano 21 Speeds Drivetrain,Aluminum Frame 26 Inch Wheels, Disc-Brake Bike for Men Women Men's MTB Bicycle
  • 【Best for Beginner】Hiland H200 will be a good friend for new riders. Aluminum rims and magnesium wheels are light in weight. The special spoke...
  • 【High tech Frame】Hiland H200 mountain bike has Light Aluminum frame is packed with features that make your ride better. Good performance...
  • 【Professional drive train】Shimano 21 Speed drive train , a wide range of gears gives you more control for climbing,for room to get low on...
  • 【Assembly Guide】85% pre-assembled,easy to assemble,free pedals,required assembly tools included.If you have any questions about it.You can refer...
  • 【Size Guide & Warranty】17'' frame size is ideal for riders between 5' & 6'. Like every Hiland, it's backed by a limited lifetime warranty. So if...
Mongoose Maxim Girls Mountain Bike, 24-Inch Wheels, Aluminum Frame, 21-Speed Drivetrain, Lavender
  • Aluminum full suspension mountain frame maximizes comfort and performance. 24-inch wheels fit riders ages 8 and up, or 4’8” to 5’6”
  • Suspension fork smooths out bumps and increases control
  • SRAM twisth shifters change gears easily. 21 speeds with Shimano rear derailleur is great for all types of riding
  • Linear pull brakes deliver great braking power
  • 3 piece crank provide sure shifts. Alloy rims offer lightweight durability
OPEAK Electric Bike for Adults Electric Mountain Bicycke with 750W High Speed Motor, 48V 12Ah Removeable Battery, E-Bike with 8 Speed Gear, 26'' x 4''...
  • ★【Your long-distance travel companion】The electric bike for adults is equipped with a 48V 13.6AH removable battery, which can be charged...
  • ★【750W Powerful Motor 】Opeak electric bike is equipped with a 750W high-speed brushless motor, which can reach a top speed of 28 mph. The...
  • ★【Three Working Modes】Pure human pedaling mode: Riding normally like riding a bicycle every day. Pedal assist mode: When you step on the pedal,...
  • ★【26'' X 4'' Fat Tires】The adult electric bicycles is equipped with 26-inch diameter, 4-inch wide thickened tires, which provide strong grip and...
  • ★【Safe Riding】Auto-sensing led lights can automatically light up when the light is dark, allowing you to ride safely at night. High-performance...
Sarahbridal 750W Electric Bike for Adults, 26" Fat Tire Mountain Electric Bicycle, 20+MPH, Up to 50+Miles, Snow Beach Ebike with 48V 13Ah Larger...
  • 🚴‍♀️【750W BaFang Moto and 48V LG cell Battery】:48V 750W High-Speed/Brush-Less Geared/Waterproof Motor. 48V Larger Battery with LG cell:...
  • 🚴‍♀️【3 Riding Modes and LCD Smart Digital Display 6 Modes】:This e-bike has 3 cycling modes (E-bike/Pedal Assisted bicycle/bicycle).If you...
  • 🚴‍♀️【Aluminum Frame and Fat Tires】:6061 aluminium-alloy with Appearance Patent frame, this bike adopts ultra-lightweight yet strong...
  • 🚴‍♀️【Disc Brake and Shifer System】:Disc Brake,160mm front,160mm rear,Effectively reduce braking distance.Classic 7 speed gear and top of...
  • 🚴‍♀️【Easy Assemble and Great Service】: Come 75% assembled,only need to install the pedals(Left Right distinction), front wheel,...