The average rate of mountain bikes fluctuates significantly, based on various factors. On average, mountain bikes fall between 28 and 32 pounds; however, some bikes fall as low as 10 to 15 pounds, and the heaviest models, can average close to 60 pounds. What dictates the average mountain bike weight and why does it matter?
In this piece, we’ll cover some basics as it relates to average mountain bike weight, the type of mountain bikes, and why it matters.
What Factors Contribute to the Mountain Bike’s Weight?
Several factors contribute to the overall weight of your mountain bike. These variables include:
- The front and rear suspension
- The tires
- The bike’s fork and its frame
These are the different parts of your mountain bike that make up about 60% of its total weight.
Depending on the riding type, and whether you’re racing or just leisurely riding with friends, the weight of your mountain bike should be adjusted accordingly.
Anyone, or several of these variables being modified, is going to affect the overall weight of your bike.
What are the Average Mountain Bike Weights?
So, the average weight of mountain bikes sits at about 30 pounds. However, we’ve highlighted how much weights can vary based on:
- Manufacturer
- The design
- The bike’s size
- And the components/parts of your bike
Here, we’ll further break down the weight of the most popular types of mountain bikes you can purchase today.
Hardtail Mountain Bike
These bikes tend to sit at a weight of about 28 pounds. This is the mid-range weight for hardtail bikes. For race weight, bikes at about 21 to 25 pounds is a good range. For general riding purposes, the 26 to 28-pound range is acceptable for most bikers.
Full Suspension Mountain Bike
Full suspension mountain bikes have more components than the hardtail mountain bike; in turn, their weight is a little higher. The average weight for full suspension bikes is 30 to 34 pounds on average. For bikers who race, the 30-pound mark is a good weight to look for. Everyday riders might find a heavier bike a little cheaper, so might opt for more weight when choosing a new bike.
29ers Mountain Bikes
A 29er is heavy. These bikes offer greater:
- Momentum once your bike gets rolling
- Greater momentum on rolling hills
- Their wheels can easily traverse difficult mountains or slopes
- Control while you are climbing
These bikes are also heavier. The average weight of a 29er is about 28 to 34 pounds; some are as heavy as 40 pounds (plus). Again, depending on your riding style, and whether you’re a competitive/racing rider, or just riding for leisure/pleasure, the weight of your bike will fluctuate, as is the case with each of these mountain bike classes.
XC Mountain Bikes
The XC mountain bike is for the cross-country rider. Or, if you’re a distance racer, these mountain bikes are a great option. They weigh in at about 26 pounds, and heavier models fall at a weight closer to 30 pounds. They can easily be modified, however, with some XC bikes weighing in as low as 15 pounds. A carbon frame, lighter seat, and other component modifications can help bring the bike’s weight down. For competitive riders, you want a lower weight, however, this is going to come at a higher price.
Downhill Mountain Bikes
Downhill mountain bikes are also a bit heavier than the average. These bikes weigh about 34 pounds, with several manufacturer’s products weighing over 40 pounds. Durability and stability are the most important aspects when choosing a downhill bike. The reason is that you need more traction and a bike that can help you maintain pace and direction, as you are going downhill at fast speeds.
Again, every manufacturer and bike are going to weigh in at a different level. And, modifications can help you alter the bike’s weight if you choose to do so. So, make sure you know your riding purposes and needs, so you can choose the right downhill mountain bike when the time comes to invest in one.
How to Bring Down the Mountain Bike’s Overall Weight
If you want a lighter bike, there are several ways you can modify your mountain bike, to bring down the average mountain bike weight. Some common modifications bikers make are
- Upgrading the wheelset or going with a tubeless bike
- Choosing a carbon frame rather than aluminum or other materials
- Changing the drivetrain or selecting clip-less pedals
Small modifications like changing the seat, might also help bring the bike’s weight down. Modifying the fork and frame, are also simple ways you can reduce your mountain bike’s weight. There’s no single solution, but there are several minor tweaks you can make if you desire a lighter bike for racing purposes.
Why Does the Average Mountain Bike Weight Matter?
It depends. For example, if you’re a professional or amateur racer, weight matters. The lighter the bike is, the faster your speeds are going to be. It’s important to understand penalties for modifications, and weight limits that are in place for racing, to avoid disqualifications.
On average, something in the mid-20-pound weight range is okay for racing. On the flip side, bikers that are heavier (body weight) are going to add momentum to the bike while they’re riding.
So, even if the bike’s a little heavier than they’d like, their weight can help them adjust speeds accordingly. Beginner riders don’t need to worry about the bike’s weight as much as an amateur and advanced riders either; just choose what feels comfortable so you can get started on your mountain biking journey.
There’s no clear answer as to how much the average mountain bike weight is or should be. But, there are several variables that will dictate the bike’s weight, including materials, frame, and the type of mountain bike you’re purchasing.
So, before you decide on the right mountain bike for you or whether you should invest in an XC or a hardtail bike, consider these variables, along with your budget, to help you decide on the right bike, the best frame, and the perfect weight when you’re ready to invest in a new mountain bike.
