5 Best Mountain Bike Frames of 2025

This 27.5er softtail aluminum frame delivers an impressive balance of durability and comfort, making it a standout pick for riders seeking affordable full suspension performance without stepping into carbon territory. The integrated 165mm rear shock absorber provides tangible bump-smoothing capability, especially on rocky fire roads and root-laden trails, while the aluminum alloy construction ensures solid rigidity for confident handling. With QR 135mm rear spacing and B-post 51mm disc mounts, it’s built for real-world trail abuse—perfect for weekend warriors wanting serious suspension benefits at a fraction of high-end costs.

On test rides across mixed terrain, the frame shines in absorbing chatter and medium-sized impacts thanks to its 16” full suspension design, though aggressive downhill riders may find the travel limiting when pushing technical limits. It accommodates up to 2.4” tires, giving ample grip and cushioning, and the 30.4mm seatpost and standard threaded bottom bracket simplify builds with off-the-shelf components. While it doesn’t have boost spacing or modern thru-axles, the quick-release 135mm dropout system keeps things simple and serviceable—ideal for DIY builders or those maintaining multiple bikes. That said, it struggles slightly on high-speed descents where stiffer, more progressive linkage systems outperform.

Pitted against the pricier ICAN P9 carbon frame, this model sacrifices cutting-edge materials and travel but wins on accessibility and ease of build. It’s a smarter choice than hardtails for riders tackling rough, uneven trails regularly, yet less suited for enduro racers or weight weenies. Compared to the BSFHQS budget hardtail, it offers true rear suspension, a major comfort and control upgrade. For the price, it delivers exceptional value for recreational trail riders who want a do-it-all frame that soaks up fatigue without breaking the bank.

Built like a trail tank with downhill intent, the YFGSFWTS 17” aluminum frame is engineered for riders who demand serious durability and controlled aggression on steep, technical terrain. Its high-strength aluminum alloy body features fish-scale welding for enhanced structural integrity, while the 165mm rear shock compatibility ensures it can be tuned for aggressive all-mountain or light downhill runs. With support for 2.4” tires and 27.5” wheels, it strikes a sweet spot between rollover ability and nimble handling—ideal for punchy climbs and high-consequence descents.

In real-world testing, this frame holds up impressively under heavy loads, thanks to its threaded 68mm bottom bracket and 30.4mm seatpost, which reduce creaking and slippage common in cheaper builds. The Quick Release 135mm dropout system keeps maintenance simple, though it lacks the stiffness of modern boost standards—noticeable when railing corners at speed. It excels in enduro-style terrain, where its geometry encourages confident, planted riding, but the 2.75kg frame weight becomes a drawback on long climbs compared to carbon or hardtail alternatives. Still, for riders prioritizing downhill composure over uphill efficiency, it’s a compelling option.

Stacked against the ICAN P9 carbon enduro frame, this model trades weight and cutting-edge materials for raw toughness and affordability. While it doesn’t offer the same lateral stiffness or high-speed damping finesse, it’s far more forgiving for riders still developing technical skills. It’s a better fit than the BSFHQS hardtail for aggressive trail and shuttle runs, where rear suspension is non-negotiable. For riders seeking downhill-ready performance without carbon fragility, this frame offers remarkable capability per dollar, even if it’s not the lightest on the scale.

The ICAN P9 isn’t just a frame—it’s a precision instrument for enduro dominance, blending full carbon fiber construction with modern 148mm boost spacing and 150mm of frame travel to create a ride that’s both featherlight and fiercely capable. Its 29er platform delivers superior roll-over ability and high-speed stability, while the 210x55mm shock size allows compatibility with high-performance dampers like RockShox units—giving tunability that serious riders crave. This is a frame built for winning timed stages, not just surviving trails.

On aggressive descents, the P9 responds with laser-like precision and minimal flex, thanks to its carbon monocoque build and wide boost rear end. It thrives with 29×2.3” or 27.5×3.0” tires, letting riders choose between speed and traction depending on terrain—making it exceptionally versatile for mixed conditions. In real-world use, the frame’s low weight (under 2.2kg estimated) transforms climbs into less of a chore, while the long, slack geometry inspires confidence at speed. However, its high-end materials demand careful handling—carbon damage from rock strikes can be costly, and it’s overkill for casual trail riders.

When compared to the YFGSFWTS aluminum frame, the P9 is in a different league: lighter, stiffer, and more responsive, with modern geometry that rewards skilled riding. It’s not as budget-friendly as the BSFHQS hardtail, but it’s in a different performance category entirely. For enduro racers or advanced riders who prioritize speed, efficiency, and downhill aggression, this frame is a top-tier choice. While it costs more than double some alternatives, it delivers race-grade performance that justifies its premium, especially when every gram and millimeter counts.

Don’t let the price tag fool you—the BSFHQS 29er hardtail frame is a stealthy performer for budget-conscious builders who still want clean geometry and modern touches. At just 1.74kg, it’s remarkably lightweight for an aluminum frame, thanks to precision flat-welded joints and UV-resistant glossy paint that hides imperfections. Designed for XC and light enduro use, it supports 2.25” tires and internal cable routing, giving it a sleek, race-ready aesthetic usually found on pricier models. For riders building a reliable, no-frills trail bike, it’s a hard-to-beat foundation.

On the trail, the 17” aluminum frame delivers a snappy, efficient ride—perfect for fire-road sprints and technical climbs where hardtails excel. The 31.6mm seatpost and 34.9mm clamp are standard, making part sourcing easy, while the BSA threaded bottom bracket resists creaking better than press-fit systems. However, without rear suspension, it transmits more trail buzz, especially on rocky descents—making it less ideal for full-on enduro runs. It performs best on moderate singletrack and gravel paths, where its light weight and stiffness shine. The 9x135mm QR spacing is functional but outdated, limiting hub and wheel upgrade paths compared to boost-equipped frames.

Compared to the full-suspension YFGSFWTS or ICAN P9, this frame is clearly in a different class—simpler, lighter on features, but far more affordable. Yet when stacked against other budget hardtails, it stands out with internal routing and clean welds usually reserved for higher-end builds. It’s a smarter pick than the Gravity FSX for XC racers or lightweight trail riders, where every gram matters. For those on a tight budget who still want a clean, modern-looking build, this frame offers exceptional bang for the buck, even if it skips the suspension.

The Gravity FSX XL frame is a trail-focused beast designed for riders who want a complete, ready-to-rip package without the headache of sourcing every component. Unlike most bare frames, it comes with a headset, seatpost, stem, and even a suspension fork with lockout—a rare inclusion that slashes build time and cost. The aluminum dual suspension design pairs a 29er wheel platform with a 135mm QR rear end, offering a balanced ride that’s stable on descents yet agile enough for tight switchbacks. This is a true all-terrain beast for intermediate riders stepping up from entry-level bikes.

On mixed trails, the adjustable rear shock allows tuning for rider weight or terrain, improving comfort on long rides, while the included 29” suspension fork smooths out chatter effectively—though it’s not as refined as high-end air forks. The replaceable derailleur hanger is a thoughtful touch, adding longevity for crash-prone riders. However, the lack of boost spacing limits wheel and hub options, and the 21-inch XL size only fits taller riders (6’2”–6’5”), reducing its versatility. It excels on blue-square trail networks and park laps, but serious racers will want stiffer, lighter alternatives.

Compared to the BSFHQS hardtail, the Gravity FSX offers real rear suspension and a full build kit, making it a better value for riders wanting a turnkey solution. It doesn’t match the carbon refinement of the ICAN P9, but it’s far more accessible for average trail users. For beginner-to-intermediate trail riders who want a ready-to-assemble, durable frame with key parts included, this is a standout. It delivers more bang for the buck than most bare frames, trading ultimate performance for unmatched convenience and completeness.