Finding an inexpensive bike is a great way to encourage a healthy active lifestyle, so Mongoose manufactures several models of mountain bikes such as the Montana that are intended for the entry level rider. This bike is a classic hardtail mountain bike, without the bells and whistles, for riders in search of a simple, familiar looking, bicycle. At an affordable price, the Montana is great for men and women that are shopping for a basic bike. However, you do get what you pay for here.
The Montana is made affordable by the manufacturer by reducing production cost through the incorporation of introductory level components. The Shimano derailleur and shifters paired with an SRAM drivetrain gives the Montana reasonable climbing power and speed. This bike is not designed for, or intended, to perform under extreme duress. That means that this bike will not do well in extremely difficult climbs, or extremely steep descents. This is an entry level mountain bike designed to handle to rigors that a commuter encounters on the city streets with the option of driving through urban trails or off-road bike paths.
The geometry of the Montana is designed to help a rider sit comfortably in an upright position. The frame is offered in styles traditionally created for men and women. Though the two bike styles have s slightly different frame shape, their components and handling are exactly the same. The Element front suspension fork offers additional comfort to riders by smoothing out the jarring affects of the road for better steering control despite the terrain. For reliable stopping power that is easy to service, the Montana includes linear-pull brakes.
Typically, Mongoose manufacturers their bike models in series to imply that the foundational frame of a bike can be transformed into any level that the rider may wish. While the Montana is compatible with other intermediate level components, it is not the manufacturer’s intention here that this bike be used for more than casual enjoyment. The hardtail construction is reliable, but the frame lacks the fabrication to be expectantly resilient in challenging environments.
There are numerous complaining reviews on the internet in which customers focus on how the Montana did not meet their expectations. Unfortunately, the expectations of these customers were unrealistic. This is a basic bike at an affordable price. If you are interested in progressing with your mountain biking skills, then it would be best to consider purchasing another model like the Tyax Sport for a slightly higher price.
That bike is intended to grow with you, but the Montana is intended to just provide recreational enjoyment for the occasional trail rider or daily commuter. There are two suggested upgrade parts that a rider can consider purchasing in the future for their Montana. The first is the pedals, which should be replaced with medal ones to increase traction and control. Second, the quill stem allows the Montana a wide variety of seat options that can increase the overall comfort of this bike.
