Mountain Bike vs BMX Bike: What’s the Difference?

Not all bikes are made the same, so you should carefully consider what you’re looking to get out of your bike when choosing between a mountain bike vs BMX bike. Today, we’ll look at mountain and BMX bikes and discuss their differences, similarities, and characteristics.

A Mountain bike is designed to traverse longer rough terrains that call for climbing, ascending and shock absorption. In contrast, the BMX bike is excellent for short sprints on flat terrains as it incorporates abrupt speed changes and high mobility.

In this article, I’ll explain the main differences between mountain and BMX bikes. You’ll understand the operating mechanisms of these bikes to make an informed decision on the one that meets your needs. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Key Differences Between a Mountain Bike vs BMX Bike

The table below summarizes the main differences between a mountain bike vs BMX bike:

Factor	Mountain Bike	BMX Bike
Weight	28 to 32 lbs (12.7 to 14.5 kg)	23.6 lbs (10.7 kg)
Speed	30 mph (48 kph)	35 mph (56 kph)
Frame	Bulkier	Lightweight
Tire diameter	26 and 29 inches (66 and 73.66 cm)	20 and 24 inches (50.8 and 60 cm)
Suspension	Present	Missing
Brake system	Rim and disc	V-brakes
Gears	24	1 or none
Price	Expensive	Cheaper

Table 1: Mountain bike vs. BMX bike: Key differences

Frame

The frame is the first thing you’ll notice that’s different between these two bikes. These frames are built to ensure durability and comfort depending on how and where the bikes are used.

Mountain Bike Frame

Mountain bike frames are generally much bulkier to accommodate the shock-absorbing suspension system. The bulkiness of this frame ensures it can absorb vibrations from diverse rough terrains.

Mountain bike frames also come with attachments for drink bottles. This is because they are meant for long-distance riders who need to carry drinks like water or electrolytes. These attachments can also accommodate lights and air pumps for smooth rides.

BMX Frame

BMX bikes must sustain high-intensity impacts. BMXers usually jump from ramps while making leaps in the air. The frames are, therefore, made of rigid materials like Chromoly to ensure they can withstand these impacts.

The BMX frame is much lighter than a mountain bike frame. This makes it easier for the rider to control and change directions quickly.

The handlebars on a BMX frame are lower and closer than on a mountain bike. This gives the rider more control when making sharp turns.

Tires

The type of tires used on these bikes also differs based on terrain. While mountain bikes traverse through rocky terrains, BMX bikes are mainly used on smooth surfaces.

Mountain Bike Tires

Mountain bike tires have a knobby design to ensure they can grip well on diverse surfaces like gravel, mud, and sand. The width of these tires also increases the contact area with the ground for more stability.

Mountain bikes usually come with wider tires than BMX. This is because they need better grip and stability when traversing diverse terrains. The wheels have diameters of 26 inches (66 cm) for the standard model and 29 inches (73.66 cm) for the oversized model.

BMX Tires

BMX tires are narrower and have a slick design to ensure they can move quickly on smooth surfaces while reducing rolling resistance. The narrow width of these tires makes it easier for the rider to make sharp turns.

The reduced contact area with the ground makes these tires lighter. This is an advantage when making jumps as it increases the bike’s portability.

The BMX tires can absorb impacts when the biker hits the ground after a jump because of the inside air pressure.

The tires have a diameter of 20 inches (50.8 cm) for the standard BMX and 24 inches (61 cm) for the cruiser class BMX.

Suspension

Suspension is the system that helps absorb shocks when the bike hits bumps on the road. This ensures a smooth ride and protects the rider from getting thrown off balance.

The common types of bicycle suspensions include:

• Single pivot. In this arrangement, a swing arm connects the rear axle to the main frame. This enables the axle to move in a constant arc from the pivot point.
• Horst-like. This design has the rear pivot on the chainstay. Thus, the movement of the rear axle is controlled by the instant center.
• Front suspension. This is the most common type of suspension in mountain bikes. It has a shock absorber and fork assembly at the front to absorb impacts.
• Rear suspension. This suspension is mainly used in downhill mountain biking. It has a rear shock absorber to absorb impacts from bumps on the road.

Mountain Bike Suspension

Mountain bikes have front or dual (full) suspension systems. The front suspension system has a shock absorber attached to the forks beneath the handlebars. This system is also known as fork suspension.

The dual suspension system has a shock absorber at the front and rear of the bike. This is the most common type of suspension system in mountain bikes. It provides more comfort to the rider by absorbing impacts from bumps on the road.

The terrain determines the amount of travel in a mountain bike suspension. For example, a cross-country bike has less travel than a downhill mountain bike.

The travel is the distance the shock absorber can move. It’s measured in millimeters (mm), and most mountain bike absorbers have a travel distance ranging from 130 mm to 160 mm (5.12 to 6.3 in).

BMX Suspension

BMX bikes don’t have suspension systems. These bikes are built to be rigid, so adding a suspension would be counterproductive by making them bulkier and unable to meet their needs.

So, how do BMXers manage shocks?

BMXers manage the sprinting shock through maximum thrust and body strength. They also use their legs to manage and control most impacts from racing off ramps and jumps.

Brakes

The braking system is the reason BMX bikes can make instant stints on the go. On the other hand, mountain bikes have brakes that enable them to descend different slopes in different weather conditions.

Mountain Bike Brakes

Mountain bike brakes are designed to work well in all weather conditions and on diverse surfaces. They use a cable and lever system to apply pressure on the brake pads.

Mostly, mountain bikes have brakes on both wheels to withstand high temperatures due to downhill braking.

The most common mountain bike brakes are:

• Rim brakes. These brakes work by pressing two pads against the rims of the wheels.
• Disc brakes. These use a hydraulic system to apply pressure on the brake pads. Disc brakes are more effective than rim brakes and are the most common type of brake used in mountain bikes.

BMX Brakes

BMX brakes are designed to support acrobatics and complex feats. Such stints want an easy way to rotate the handlebars clockwise and anticlockwise. The bike must be able to come to an abrupt standstill for these to happen.

Due to these specifications, BMX bikes have brakes only on the rear wheel. The front wheel does not need brakes to increase movement clearance and make the bike lighter.

Most BMX bikes use V-brakes which squeeze the tire to slow it down or stop it.

Gears

Gears are what make a mountain bike versatile. It helps the rider climb steep hills and descend safely. On the other hand, BMX bikes don’t need many gears because the tracks are primarily flat.

Mountain Bike Gears

Mountain bikes have 24 gears that help the rider pedal at different speeds on diverse terrains. The most common type of mountain bike gear system is the Shimano drivetrain.

This system uses a derailleur to move the chain from one sprocket to another. The number of gears in a mountain bike matches the number of sprockets on the rear wheel and the front crank.

The 24 gears on mountain bikes are not used constantly; they are varied based on terrain. For instance, lower gears are used when climbing uphill while higher gears are used on plains.

BMX Gears

BMX bikes have a single-speed gear system because the tracks they ride on are mostly flat.

The gearing system on BMX bikes is not as complex as that of mountain bikes because the rider only needs to pedal faster or slower. Some BMX bikes lack even a single gear.

Pedals

Pedals are essential for both mountain bikes and BMX bikes. They are the contact points between the rider and the bike. The pedals help the rider generate power to move forward.

Mountain Bike Pedals

Mountain bike pedals are designed to grip the shoes of the rider securely. This is because mountain biking involves a lot of pedaling and quick movements that can cause the feet to slip off the pedals.

Mountain bike pedals are also larger and have a more aggressive tread pattern to provide more grip.

Most of these bikes use clipless pedals. These pedals provide an enhanced pedaling efficiency since the foot connects directly to the pedal allowing the rider to push down and pull up with ease.

BMX Pedals

BMX pedals are smaller than mountain bike pedals and are lightweight. This design helps the rider perform stunts and tricks easily.

The pedals on BMX bikes also have a less aggressive tread pattern to provide more grip and control.

Most BMX pedals are made of aluminum to reduce weight.

Size

Mountain and BMX bikes come in different sizes based on the frame and wheels, respectively. These sizes provide the rider with a comfortable and efficient ride.

Mountain Bike Sizes

Mountain bikes come in three main frame sizes:

• Small
• Medium
• Large

The size of the bike is based on the height of the rider.

The wheel size of mountain bikes also varies depending on the type of bike. The most common mountain bike wheel sizes are 26 (66 cm) and 29 (73.66 cm) inches.

The table below shows mountain bike sizes suitable for different riders based on heights:

Rider Height (in)	Rider Height (cm)	Frame Size	Frame Size (in)	Frame Size (cm)
4′ 10″ – 5′ 2″	148 to 158	XS	13″ to 14″	33 to 37
5′ 3″ – 5′ 6″	159 to 168	S	15″ to 16″	38 to 42
5′ 7″ – 5′ 10″	169 to 178	M	17″ to 18″	43 to 47
5′ 11″ – 6′ 1″	179 to 185	L	19″ to 20″	48 to 52
6′ 2″ – 6′ 4″	186 to 193	XL	21″ to 22″	53 to 57
6′ 4″ +	194+	XXL	23″+	58+

Table 2: Mountain bike size chart

BMX Bike Sizes

The size of a BMX bike is based on the wheel diameter. The most common BMX bike sizes are 20, 18, and 16 inches (50, 45, and 40 cm).

The frame size of BMX bikes does not vary as much as mountain bikes because these bikes are designed for stunts and tricks that need medium-sized frames.

The table below shows the different BMX bike sizes based on rider’s height:

Rider Height (in)	Rider Height (cm)	Approximate Age	Wheel Size
3’7″ – 4’0″	110 to 122	5 to 7 years	16″
4’0″ – 4’10”	122 to 147	7 to 11 years	18″
4’10” – 6’4″	147 to 193	More than 11 years	20″

Table 3: BMX bike size chart

Rides

These two types of bike are ridden differently based on their design and purpose.

Mountain Bike Rides

Mountain biking involves riding on rough terrains like:

• Mountains
• Forests
• Hills

The bikes are designed to provide the rider with a comfortable and efficient ride on these terrains. This is achieved through the suspensions at the front and back of the bike. These suspensions make it easier for the rider to maneuver the bike on rough terrains.

BMX Bike Rides

BMX biking is a sport that involves riding on tracks with ramps, jumps, and other obstacles. This type of ride is mainly done outdoors but can also be done indoors in specially designed parks like motocross.

As opposed to their mountain counterparts, BMX bikes don’t have suspension for smoother rides. Instead, riders use their knees, legs, and bodies to navigate the obstacles. Therefore, BMX riders must be careful of the terrain and obstacles to adjust accordingly. For instance, in the case of a ramp, the rider will have to adjust the body position and bike angle to land safely.

BMX biking is mainly done for recreation and competition.

The video below demonstrates some of the rides between a BMX and MTB:

Weight

Weight makes another point of comparison between mountain and BMX bikes. Generally, mountain bikes weigh more than their BMX counterparts.

Comparing bikes in terms of weight is crucial because:

• Weight determines speed. The lighter the bike, the faster it can move.
• Weight determines maneuverability. It’s easy to maneuver a lighter bike either by stopping or starting it compared to a heavy one.
• Weight affects the strength of the bike. A heavier bike is stronger and can withstand more impact than a lighter one.

The weight difference between a mountain and BMX bikes is due to their design and purpose. Mountain bikes are designed for durability to withstand the rigors of riding on rough terrains. This means they are made of heavier materials such as aluminum and steel. On the other hand, BMX bikes are designed for tricks and stunts. Therefore, they are made of lighter materials such as Chromoly and titanium.

The average weight of mountain bikes ranges from 28 to 32 pounds (12.70 to 14.52 kg). On the other hand, BMX bikes weigh 23.6 pounds (10.7 kg) on average.

Price

The price is another important factor to consider when choosing between a mountain bike and a BMX bike. Mountain bikes are generally more expensive than BMX bikes. This is because mountain bikes are designed for a more specific purpose and are made of higher quality materials.

BMX bikes are less expensive than mountain bikes because they are designed for a more general purpose which is mostly aerobatics, meaning they are mostly used on special occasions by experienced riders.

The price difference between these two types of bikes also depends on the brand, model, and features.

Mountain Bike vs. Bmx Bike: Pros and Cons

Depending on what you want the bike for, you can go for either a mountain or a BMX bike. However, these bikes have their benefits and drawbacks, as discussed below:

Mountain Bike Pros

• Have diverse uses. You can use a mountain bike for commuting, recreation, and racing without worrying about damaging it.
• Can be ridden on different terrains. Mountain bikes are designed to withstand the rigors of riding on rough terrains such as mountains, forests, and hills.
• More comfortable. The suspensions at the front and back of mountain bikes make them more comfortable to ride compared to BMX bikes. You don’t have to worry about lifting yourself or leaning to avert high impacts.
• Are easy to ride on different terrains. These bikes come with 24 gears that make it easy to ride on diverse terrains. The lower gears are suitable for riding uphill, while the higher ones work well on level terrains where speed is needed.
• High stability and utility. They have knobby tires that offer more grip and stability when riding on slippery or wet surfaces. Also, they come with features such as fenders and racks that add to their utility.
• Easier on joints. The suspensions mean that these bikes put less stress on joints while riding. Most of the shocks from hitting bumps are absorbed by the suspensions, not your legs.
• They absorb vibrations. The suspensions of mountain bikes help absorb vibrations, making the ride smoother and more comfortable.
• Are all-weather bikes. Trail and road surface traction make mountain bikes an excellent option for all weather conditions. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need supportive gear like a raincoat for rainy seasons.

Mountain Bike Cons

• More expensive. The diverse uses and features of mountain bikes make them more expensive than BMX bikes. You may also have to buy extra accessories such as a rack and fenders.
• Require regular maintenance. The moving parts of mountain bikes like the gears need to be regularly lubricated and cleaned to avoid damage and ensure optimal performance.
• Are heavy. These bikes are made of heavy materials such as aluminum and steel, which make them challenging to carry around.
• Costly maintenance. Mountain bikes have expensive parts like gears which are also costly to repair. Components like hydraulic disc brakes and front air suspension forks need annual repairs. Thus, you need enough savings to cater to a mountain bike’s repairs.
• Poor pedaling efficiency. Although suspensions are suitable for shock absorption, they also absorb some pedaling force.

BMX Bike Pros

• Are cheaper. The simple design and purpose of BMX bikes make them less expensive than mountain bikes. You can also find second-hand BMX bikes at a fraction of the price of a new one.
• Are lighter. Most BMX bikes are made of Chromoly, a lightweight material. This makes them easy to carry around and maneuver.
• Easy to maintain. The simple design of these bikes means they have fewer moving parts that require regular maintenance. You only need to focus on the chain, brakes, and tires.
• Suitable for tricks and maneuvers. The small size and light weight of BMX bikes make them ideal for performing tricks such as wheelies and bunny hops.
• Fun and urban. BMX bikes are a great way to have fun and stay active in an urban environment. You can ride them around town, to the store, or visit friends.

BMX Bike Cons

• The simple design. The single-speed and lack of features such as fenders and racks make BMX bikes less versatile than mountain bikes.
• Inefficient for longer rides. The lack of gears or only one gear makes it challenging to ride BMX bikes over long distances or on hilly terrains.
• Low and cramped body positions. The low and forward-positioned seats of BMX bikes make it challenging to maintain good posture while riding. This can lead to back and neck pain.
• Are less comfortable. The absence of suspensions on BMX bikes makes them quite uncomfortable to ride on rough terrains. You may also feel vibrations more since there’s nothing to absorb them.
• Have shorter life spans. The simple design and lack of features make BMX bikes more susceptible to wear and tear. This means they have shorter life spans than mountain bikes.
• One speed. The single-speed in BMX bikes limits their use to only flat terrains. Thus, you’ll have difficulties riding on hills or long distances.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Mountain Bike vs BMX Bike

Choosing between a mountain or BMX bike ultimately comes down to what you’ll be using the bike for. The following factors will guide you in choosing a suitable bike for your needs:

Versatility

You may want a bike that can be used for different purposes like commuting, exercise, and leisure riding. In this case, a mountain bike would be a better choice since they’re more versatile.

On the other hand, a BMX bike would suffice if you’re only interested in riding for fun or doing bike stunts. Remember that BMX bikes are not ideal for long-distance rides or transporting luggage.

Purpose

Before deciding, you need to ask yourself what you’ll use the bike for. A mountain bike is ideal if you’re looking for a bike to ride on trails and rough roads. These bikes are designed for off-road riding and can handle all terrain.

However, a BMX bike would be a better choice if you only need a bike for commuting or leisurely rides on flat surfaces.

Cost

The cost of mountain and BMX bikes can vary depending on the quality of the materials and components used. Mountain bikes are usually more expensive than BMX bikes since they’re made of higher-quality materials and have more features.

On the other hand, BMS bikes are more affordable since they’re made of simpler materials and don’t have as many features. You can reduce the price even more by purchasing a second-hand BMX bike.

Size

The size of the bike is another essential factor to consider when choosing between a mountain or BMX bike. Mountain bikes come in different sizes to accommodate riders of different heights. 

BMX bikes, on the other hand, have a one-size-fits-all design. This makes them more suitable for riders between four and five feet tall. These bikes are usually smaller with a lower seat position to accommodate people with smaller statures.

Your height is essential to consider when thinking about the right bike size. You want to get a bike that’s big enough to comfortably ride but not too big that it’s difficult to control.

Ability

Your riding ability will also dictate which type of bike is more suitable for you. If you’re a beginner, a mountain bike would be a better choice since they’re easier to control.

On the other hand, if you’re more experienced, then you might prefer a BMX bike. These bikes are designed for more advanced riders and require more skill to ride. You need to master the basic stints like bunny hops and manuals to ride a BMX bike efficiently.

Final Thoughts

A mountain bike is a better choice if you’re looking for a versatile bike that can be used for different purposes. These bikes are designed for off-road riding and can handle all terrains.

However, a BMX bike would suffice if you only need a bike for fun and leisure activities that involve stunts and tricks. Remember that BMX bikes are not ideal for long-distance rides or carrying cargo.