Gravel Bikes on a Budget: Ozark Trail Bikes
Ozark Trail bikes have quietly exploded in popularity — and it’s no mystery why. With hundreds of positive reviews and price tags that rarely crack $500, these budget-friendly bikes are proving you don’t need to drop a grand to start gravel riding or trail shredding. Riders consistently praise them for solid construction, stylish design, and components that rival bikes twice their cost.
What’s even better? Pairing your Ozark Trail ride with RockBros accessories — like full-frame bags and handlebar rolls — transforms these budget bikes into full-blown adventure rigs. From weekend gravel rides to daily commuting, this is where function meets affordability.
This guide rounds up the best Ozark Trail gravel and mountain bikes under $1,000 and matches them with essential RockBros gear that helps you ride further, carry more, and still have cash left over for snacks.
700c Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer Gravel Bike
The Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer is a drop bar gravel bike that’s secretly one of the best bang-for-your-buck rides in the game. At just under $400, it boasts an aluminum frame, internal cable routing, 2x7 drivetrain, and mechanical disc brakes. You’re basically getting a complete gravel rig that looks and rides like a bike twice its price — and it’s available right at Walmart.
Its 700c wheels roll fast on pavement but grip well enough for fire roads, tow paths, and moderate singletrack. The geometry leans more adventure commuter than race-ready, which means it’s supremely comfortable for long days in the saddle. Whether you’re chasing Strava segments or just trying to make it to the brewery on dirt roads, this Ozark Trail bike has your back.
Of course there are going to be compromises with a bike at this price point. However, if you're gravel or bike-curious and don't want to invest a huge amount, we do believe this is a good starting point. This bike is capable enough for anything a beginner rider will get into and is specced well enough to grow with you until you're ready to up your budget.
Add some framebags from Rockbros, some gripper pedals, and you're on your way to a workable gravel rig without breaking the bank. Plus, it leaves plenty of room in the budget for travel and snacks so you can get out and ride. We like Rockbros because the provide most of the functionality of the more expensive bag manufacturers but at a fraction of the cost. Unless you're putting on hudres of miles per month you are unlikely to notice any shortcomings.
Ozark Trail Ridge 29" Mountain Bike
The Ozark Trail Ridge 29" is your all-terrain trail buddy — the kind that doesn’t ghost you when things get bumpy. Built with a rugged steel frame, front suspension fork, and 29-inch wheels, it gives you the clearance and control you need to tackle technical terrain on a budget. No, it’s not winning any XC races, but it will absolutely get you down your local trails, through the forest, and back again with a huge grin on your face.
The wide riser bars and mechanical disc brakes give you control and stopping power in any weather, while the 1x drivetrain keeps things simple and low-maintenance — a blessing when you're deep in the woods and the only tools you have are your multitool and some hope.
With plenty of frame space to mount a RockBros full frame bag or even a top tube snack pack, this Ozark Trail mountain bike is perfect for intro-level shredders, high school NICA riders, or anyone who wants a capable hardtail without shelling out four digits.
Ozark Trail 29er
A great introduction into the world of mountain biking without shelling out four digits.
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