When Do Mountain Bikes Go on Sale? Timing Your Purchase for Maximum Savings

If you’re looking for the best time to buy a mountain bike, you’re not alone. Sales on mountain bikes follow some predictable cycles, but recent market changes have also created unique opportunities for great deals. Understanding these trends can help you time your purchase wisely and save money.

The Traditional Sales Cycle: New Releases & Previous Year Discounts

Historically, most bike brands release their newest models in the fall and winter months. This means that as new bikes hit showroom floors, retailers often discount previous-year models to make room for fresh inventory. If you’re not set on having the absolute latest version of a bike, this is one of the best times to score a high-quality ride at a discount.

Retailers may also offer sales in early spring to clear out any remaining inventory before the peak riding season begins. Summer sales do happen, but discounts tend to be smaller since demand is at its highest during prime riding months.

The Post-COVID Market Shift: An Unusual Surplus

The mountain bike industry experienced an extreme boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to massive shortages in supply. In response, manufacturers ramped up production to unprecedented levels. However, demand dropped after restrictions eased, leaving an overabundance of bikes in the market. As a result, many shops and brands still have surplus inventory from that period.

Because of this, bikes from the overproduced era are still being sold at steep discounts. More importantly, even newer models are seeing price cuts as manufacturers compete to move inventory. This has led to more frequent sales and discounts than we typically see in the industry.

Consumer-Based Holiday Sales: Black Friday & Cyber Monday

In addition to seasonal discounts, major consumer-based holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become key sales events in the bike industry. Many retailers, both online and in-store, offer deep discounts on bikes, components, and gear during these shopping holidays. If you’re looking to buy a mountain bike, these events can be a great time to find limited-time deals and special promotions.

That said, inventory can sell out quickly during these sales, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and know what you're looking for before the deals go live. At Smith Creek Cycle, we also participate in seasonal promotions and holiday sales—so be sure to check with us for any upcoming discounts.

Why Would Someone Avoid Buying a Bike on Sale?

While sales can offer great deals, there are a few reasons why a rider might choose not to buy a discounted bike. One key reason is model preference—if a new version of a bike has significant improvements in geometry, components, or suspension design, a buyer might prefer to wait for the latest model rather than settling for an older one at a discount.

Another consideration is sizing and availability. Sale bikes are often limited in stock, and certain sizes or color options may sell out quickly. If you have specific preferences, you may need to pay full price to get exactly what you want.

Additionally, some high-end bikes or boutique brands rarely go on sale, so waiting for a discount might not be practical. Riders who prioritize having the newest tech and features may find that paying full price ensures they get the best possible performance without compromises.

Finally, some riders prefer to buy during peak season when demo events and test rides are more common, allowing them to try a bike before purchasing. While sales can be enticing, getting the right bike for your needs is ultimately the best investment.

How to Find the Best Deals

If you’re in the market for a mountain bike, the best approach is to keep an eye on sales at local bike shops. At Smith Creek Cycle, we regularly receive manufacturer promotions and clearance opportunities, and we’re happy to help you find the best deal on a bike that fits your needs.

Rather than waiting for a major sale event, it’s worth checking in with us directly. We may have inside info on upcoming discounts from manufacturers or even special in-store promotions. Whether you're looking for a high-end full suspension bike or a solid entry-level hardtail, there’s a good chance you can find a great price if you time it right.