Is The Trek 4300 A Good Mountain Bike? [Trek 4300 Review]

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The Trek 4 series 4300 mountain bike is a classic Trek 4 series model. It is also many mountain bikers’ first entry-level model. I couldn’t find any mention of them on the Trek website for reasons I don’t yet understand. Hello and welcome to the Best Bike Select blog.

Trek 4300 features

Aluminum frame

Despite its birth in 2000, the 4300 was built with an aluminum frame at a time when such bikes were more expensive. The frame has a moderately angled head tube and is not intended for intense trail riding.

It does, however, have a double-axle oval at the downtube and a widened finish at the link to the top tube, which increases the strength of the downtube when riding on rocky terrain.

Shimano’s 8-speed/9-speed

It has a 1X gearing combination, just like today’s popular high-end mountain bikes. The Trek 4300, on the other hand, was built with a 1X8 configuration over 20 years ago. However, the Trek 4300, manufactured in 2001 and 2002 and later, uses the Shimano Acera M390, 9-speed transmission, which increases the cost-effectiveness of this mountain bike.

Hydraulic disc brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes are not the same as mechanical disc brakes. The braking effect is more powerful, and the braking stroke is shorter. The corresponding speed is higher, and braking is accomplished with a gentle flick of the brake lever.

Usually, hydraulic disc brakes are more common on motor vehicles and will be paired with hydraulic fluid, which requires little maintenance.

Front Suspension

The Suntour suspension has 80 mm of travel on the XS and S frames. The frame above M, on the other hand, has 100mm travel. This high-quality suspension absorbs road bumps well, whether you’re riding in the woods, on trails, or on rocky terrain. A spring knob with a pre-assembly function is also included. Before riding in the mountains, some adjustments must be made; riding too high or too low is not recommended.

Bontrager Tires

The Bontrager is a 26×1.95″ tire in the 2000 model, but the 2.6 x 2.2″ tire was introduced in the 2002 model. The 2000 version was tubed, but after several iterations, a tubeless tire that is better suited for mountain riding was introduced.

With improved puncture resistance. Can withstand increased tire pressure. The quality of the rims, on the other hand, will be more demanding. The double-walled alloy rims, which are not easily deformed, do a good job of wrapping the tires, but riding with low tire pressure is extremely dangerous, and air leaks can occur.

Fender bracket and rack

Despite the fact that it is defined as a mountain bike, the reserved mounting positions allow it to be transformed into a nice commuter bike. You can easily mount the rear seat because it is equipped with mudguard brackets at the front and rear where you can mount the fenders. Convenient for everyday riding.

Pros and Cons of Trek 4300

Pros

• Affordable price
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Smooth shifting
• Hydraulic disc brakes for a safer ride
• Front and rear fenders and rear rack can be installed

Cons

• No original bracket
• Will look inadequate when riding on difficult hills

Trek 4300 Mountain Bike Specs

Name	Trek 4300
Brand	Trek
Cassette	SRAM 8spd
Saddle	Select ATB
Rear Tyre	Bontrager Connection
Front Tyre Size	26×1.95
Front Tyre	Bontrager Connection
Available Sizes	16 Inches 18 Inches 21 Inches 22.5Inches 24Inches
Available Colours	Ball Burnished/Candy Blue Stone Pearl/Platinum
Weight (kg)	12.8
Stem	Sport
Shifters	ST-EF50 EZ Fire
Seatpost	Sport
Seat Angle	72
Rims	Ranger
Chain	SR CW7-XCT-T102
Rear Wheel Weight	2600
Rear Hub	RM60-8
Pedals	Axle 1-PC Alloy
Headset Type	Semi-Cartridge
Head Angle	70
Handlebar	Crowbar Sport
Front Wheel Weight	2080
Front Derailleur	Shimano Alivio
Frame Material	Aluminium
Fork	80mm Travel
Cranks	FCmm55
Rear Tyre Size	26×1.95

FAQ

• When was the Trek 4300 manufactured?

After checking the information, the earliest version was in 2000. Subsequently, there were various models, which also included a lower version without hydraulic disc brakes and a higher version with some upgraded parts.

• How much does the Trek 4300 weigh?

The Trek 4300 weighs approximately 12.8kg, 28.4lbs.

• What is the weight limit of the Trek 4300?

This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg).

• What frame sizes are available for the Trek 4300?

16 Inches,18 Inches,21 Inches, 22.5 Inches, 24 Inches

• How much does the Trek 4300 cost?

The initial MSRP is $370. But if you choose the subsequent higher version, you need to add the selling price according to the specific accessories.

Used Trek 4300s are currently on the market for about $60 depending on the condition of the bike, which is in very good condition.

Bike Comparison

Bicycle	Frame material	Wheel size	Speed Number	price
Trek 820 mountain bike	Trek Custom Steel	26-Inch	21	Click View
Trek Marlin 5 mountain bike	Aluminum	26-29 Inch	16	Click View
Schwinn High Timber Youth/Adult Mountain Bike	Aluminum	24-29-Inch	7-21	Click View
Schwinn Bonafide Mens Mountain Bike	Carbon Fiber	29	24	Click View

Comparison

Trek 820 mountain bike VS Trek 4300

The Trek 820 is also a good entry-level mountain bike, and the Trek 4300 is a good value for money. There isn’t much of a difference between these two bikes for general mountain riding.

However, when it comes to configuration, the Trek 820 mountain bike has a steel frame but weighs only 54 pounds more than the Trek 4300. Riders who enjoy multi-speed gearing will appreciate the ability to ride at different speeds on different terrain with 21 different speeds. Consider the Trek 820 mountain bike, a great beginner’s bike, if you like Trek and are looking for an entry-level mountain bike.

Schwinn High Timber VS Trek 4300

The Schwinn High Timber is an excellent daily rider. Your adventurous spirit requires more than just a regular commute. The Schwinn High Timber is another great mountain bike at a low price. It’s ideal for riding in the woods. However, the Trek 4300 is equally unsuitable for intense trail riding.

Beginners are more comfortable with the variety of mountain biking, constant practice on low-intensity hills or rough trails, and a modest budget to consider, as with entry-level mountain bikes. Of course, the Schwinn High Timber can accommodate all of these requirements.

Schwinn Bonafide VS Trek 4300

The tall Schwinn Bonafide is ideal for taller riders, and with 29-inch knobby mountain tires, it can be ridden faster on commuter roads and has a strong presence in rugged hilly terrain.

That is something the Trek 4300 lacks. The Schwinn Bonafide, on the other hand, has no knob adjustment and relies on a disc brake. However, it is one of the best mountain bikes available for under $500 today. If you’re a tall, inexperienced mountain biker, the Schwinn Bonafide is a good option.

Summary (4.3/5)

With its low-cost but high-value accessories, the Trek 4300 appears to be one of the most important bikes in mountain biking history. On top of that, we appear to be looking for a better, more suitable mountain bike that will allow us to set higher goals.

The Trek 4300, with just the right amount of handling and efficient braking, makes it simple for new riders to gain confidence in mountain riding, allowing them to fall in love with the bike with continued practice. So, whether you’re a casual rider, a trainee mountain biker, or you use it as a prop for fitness riding, the Trek 4300 is a good entry-level mountain bike.

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Reference:

https://www.bikeradar.com/reviews/bikes/mountain-bikes/Trek-4300-sg-review/