Batch Bicycles sells a diverse lineup of bikes, including gravel, kids, mountain, electric, fitness, and cruiser models. And while the brand’s bikes cater to a broad range of riders and riding styles, the common thread is affordable pricing across the board. And as most of us know, mountain biking isn’t exactly an inexpensive sport, and the cost of new bikes is a significant barrier to entry for many. Which is why Batch’s latest entry-level hardtails are worth checking out.
The Batch Bicycles MB.1 and MB.2 are priced well below the thousand-dollar mark at $600 and $700, respectively. Neither bike is going to wow you with the latest tech or components, but both appear to be thoughtfully designed and specced for new riders to get out on the trails without breaking the bank. With 100mm of front suspension, clutched 1x drivetrains, and graduated wheel sizes, these bikes appear to be an affordable entry point to your future mountain bike addiction.
Batch MB.1: $600
Batch Bicycles describes the MB.1 as “the perfect intro to off-road riding.” It is built around an attractive hydroformed aluminum frame, equipped with a 100mm Suntour suspension fork, and it rolls on double-wall rims with 2.35” wide knobby tires. The 1 x 8-speed Microshift Acolyte drivetrain has a clutch to help keep chainslap noise to a minimum, and it comes with mechanical disc brakes.
Unfortunately, Batch doesn’t have all the geometry numbers listed for reference, but from the pictures, it looks to have a reasonable design that should suit first-timers well across a range of surfaces and terrain. It comes in six frame sizes, with graduated wheel sizes to match, which should help riders of varying heights get a good fit and ride feel. The XXS frame comes with 26” wheels, the XS rolls on 27.5”, and the rest are equipped with 29” wheels.
MB.1 Key Specs
- Suntour XCE28 Fork – 100mm of front suspension travel
- 2.4” All-Terrain Tires and Double Wall Rims
- Microshift Acolyte 1×8 Drivetrain – Smooth-shifting setup with a rear derailleur clutch to reduce chain slap and improve control.
- Alloy Frame and Options to Fit – Hydroformed aluminum in 26″, 27.5″, or 29″ wheel sizes.
- Available in XXS to XL frame sizes, and in Cobalt Blue and Warm Charcoal colorways.
Batch MB.2: $700
For $100 more, the Batch MB.2 levels up in performance with some upgraded components and the option for an eye-catching tennis-ball yellow frame. It includes a Suntour XCT30 suspension fork with 100mm of travel and 30mm stanchions to add a little sturdiness up front. The drivetrain gets another gear with the clutch-equipped Microshift Acolyte 1 x 9-speed setup. The MB.2 steps up to Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and the double-wall rims are tubeless-ready when you’re ready to upgrade.
Again, the geometry figures aren’t listed, but the MB.2 appears to share the same design as the MB.1, which is to say that it looks comfortable and off-road capable for those dipping their toes in the sport. Like the MB.1, the MB.2 also comes in six frame sizes, XXS to XL, with graduated wheel sizes for a proportional fit and handling.
MB.2 Key Specs
- Performance-Focused Hardtail – Lightweight, trail-capable build with upgraded handling and features.
- Suntour XCT30 Suspension – 100mm travel
- Tubeless-Ready Rims & 2.4” Tires
- Microshift Acolyte 1×9 Drivetrain – gearing with clutch-equipped derailleur for quiet, stable, and precise shifting.
- Powerful hydraulic disc brakes and a smooth-shifting 1 x 9 drivetrain.
- Available in sizes XXS to XL, and in Matte Black and Tennis Ball Yellow colorways.
Where to Buy
Batch Bicycles are available directly from the brand and can be purchased on its website. Batch bikes are also sold at a number of brick-and-mortar retailers. Head to the Batch website to check them out or find a dealer near you.
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