Rockrider · Mountain
Rockrider EXPL 500 29"
€419
The Rockrider EXPL 500 (formerly Explore 500) is the most complete trail hardtail in Decathlon's entry level: 6061 aluminium frame, 100 mm fork, 1x9 drivetrain and hydraulic brakes for €499.99. Reviewers praise its contained weight and versatility on trails and moderate singletrack, while noting a basic fork and a saddle that could be better. A safe bet for progressing without a big budget.
Best for: 2 to 3 h trail rides on varied terrainbeginner or intermediate rider wanting hydraulic brakesgood equipment-to-price ratio
9speeds
Aluminiumframe
29 ″wheels
14.8 kgweight
Hydraulic discbrakes
What we like
- Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for under €500
- Contained weight (14.85 kg) for the category
- Simple, reliable Microshift Advent 1x9 drivetrain
- 29" wheels (27.5" in size S), tubeless ready
- Lifetime frame guarantee, very good customer rating (4.6/5, 1,654 reviews)
What we like less
- Suntour XCM coil fork, limited on technical terrain
- Saddle judged uncomfortable on long rides
- Runs a little small according to one review, choose your size carefully
- 100 kg maximum rider weight
Key points
- 6061 ALUMINIUM FRAME: hardtail mountain bike designed for trail riding and off-road outings. A light, durable base.
- SUNTOUR XCM 100 MM FORK: absorbs shocks on rough trails. Adds comfort and control for newer riders.
- 29" WHEELS: they make obstacles easier to clear and keep momentum on fast terrain. In size S the bike switches to 27.5".
- MICROSHIFT ADVENT 1X9 DRIVETRAIN: simple, effective set-up for beginners. Less maintenance and more intuitive shifting.
- HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES: powerful, progressive braking on dry or wet terrain. Less effort at the lever.
- WEIGHT 14.9 kg: a figure suited to off-road outings and easy handling. The bike stays nimble for beginners.
Specifications
| Frame material | aluminium |
|---|---|
| Frame type | Diamond frame |
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
| Rider height | 150-200 |
| Gears | 9 |
| Drivetrain | Microshift Advent 1x9 |
| Fork | Suntour XCM, 100 mm, coil spring suspension |
| Suspension | Front suspension |
| Foldable | no |
| Weight | 14.8 kg |
| Max load | 100 kg |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
|---|---|
| Wheels | 29 ″ |
| Tyres | Rockrider All Conditions 29" x 2.2" (M/L/XL); 27.5" x 2.2" (S), tubeless ready |
| Pedals included | yes |
|---|---|
| Warranty | lifetime (frame, stem, handlebar) |
| Model year | 2,024 |
| Colours | Bleu ciel, Rouge, carbone |
Observed prices
€419lowest price
€500highest price
Reviews
- 4/5 velocitron.fr ↗
- reviewed velovision.fr ↗
- reviewed bike-test.com ↗
- 4.6/5 buyer rating on decathlon.fr ↗ (1,654 reviews)