Mountain bikes are made to ride off-road for adventure, fun, and competition. They’re characterized by wide, knobby tires for increased traction on variable terrain, but there is a great deal of variation between models. Hardtail or full suspension? 29er or 27.5”? Aluminum or carbon? From suspension to frame design, finding the bike that’s right for you depends on where you’ll ride and the type of riding you want to do.
Most styles of mountain bikes are designed to be versatile and perform effectively on a wide range of trails, but the sport has evolved into many different disciplines/riding styles over the years, and determining which style of bike fits your goals is the first step in identifying the bike that you’ll most enjoy riding.
Trek Mountain_2
Our first consideration
Before any other major bike company was even thinking about designing for women, we released our first full line of women-specific bikes. That was in 2000, and we've been refining our women's product offering ever since. Every Trek Women's mountain bike is informed by years of experience considering women from the very beginning.
What makes it WSD?
It’s not just a different paint scheme. The Trek Women’s Specific Design (WSD) badge indicates a product was designed, tested, and developed to address the specific needs of women riders we’ve researched throughout the years.
WSD touchpoints
Aside from the pedals, you only touch your bike in two places. And if those places aren’t right for you, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Every Trek Women’s mountain bike has touchpoints designed for specifically for women, including saddles and handlebars.
Unrivaled efficiency
Cross country bikes are the most efficient type of mountain bike. Their light weight and relatively modest amount of suspension make them apt climbers and strong sprinters.
Race ready
Cross country mountain bikes were developed for racing, and even though they are an excellent choice for beginners, their speed and simplicity make them a natural fit for competition.
Responsive handling
Quick, precise handling defines the experience of riding an XC bike. Responsiveness is appreciated on easier trails, but it does come at the cost of some stability.
The bikes
Ultimate versatility
Trail bikes are the most versatile type of mountain bike, and are the best choice for riders who want to enjoy a wide variety of terrain on a bike that’s confidence inspiring, but not cumbersome.
Confidence inspiring
Trail bikes are ready to take on difficult terrain with forgiving suspension and multiple tire and wheel size options that give you the courage to push yourself with more challenging rides.
An option for everyone
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Trek has the perfect trail bike for you. Our wide range of trail bike models means both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts can take their ride to the next level.
Traction rules
Fat bikes have super-wide tires that vastly increase traction, offering the grip you need to explore trails you simply can’t ride with a traditional mountain bike.
Ride all year
Fat bikes excel in the snow, making them the best choice for those who want to keep riding year-round.
Beginner friendly
Superior stability and unbeatable traction make fat bikes an excellent choice for mountain bikers who are just discovering the sport.
The bikes
Exceedingly capable
Unique suspension designs and frame geometry allow downhill bikes to take on the steepest and most treacherous trails. Shuttle to the top, and then let it rip.
Get off the ground
Defying gravity is fun. Our downhill lineup includes ultra-maneuverable bikes specifically designed for dirt jumps and stunts.
World Champ
DH bikes are the only option for downhill racing, and the best riders in the world have piloted Trek downhill bikes to record-breaking World Cup victories and multiple World Championships.
Farther. Faster.
Pedal-assist mountain bikes boost your pedaling power with an electric motor. You pedal them like any other bike, but you can stay fresh and keep up speed no matter what the trail throws at you.
Crush the climb
Mountain biking involves an awful lot of climbing, but with the extra power of an e-MTB, climbs will be anything but awful.
Ride with anyone
Electric mountain bikes allow riders of varying fitness levels and abilities to ride together, and anyone can appreciate the additional possibilities that come with adding power to your ride.
The bikes
Related articles:
What size mountain bike is right for me?
Making sure the bike fits properly is one of the most important considerations when looking for a new ride. Check out this MTB sizing guide to find the size that’s right for you.
Learn moreWhat MTB wheel size is right for me?
Mountain bikes come with a variety of wheel sizes that perform differently on the trail. See this guide to find the MTB wheel size that fits the way you ride.
Learn moreHardtail vs. Full Suspension
Most mountain bikes have suspension, but it’s not all the same. Learn about the differences between hardtail and full suspension bikes to decide which is right for you.
Learn moreHow to set up suspension
Adjusting your suspension is one of the easiest ways to get better performance out of your mountain bike. Follow this suspension set up guide to get yours dialed for better days on the trail.
Learn more