Cruising down a rocky descent, you round a blind corner and suddenly a hiker appears right in your path. You squeeze the brakes and shout “On your left!” but it’s too late. Brace for impact…
Situations like this are exactly why having a bike bell is crucial when riding trails. Just a friendly “ding ding” can alert others to your presence and avoid surprises around the bend.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to choose the right mountain bike bell to make your rides safer and more fun. You’ll learn:
- Key features that make a good MTB bell
- Top 8 bells for trail riding in 2024
- Mounting, sounds, and uses for different bells
- How to pick the perfect bell for your bike
So whether you ride cross country, downhill, or just want to cruise forest paths, read on to find your new trail buddy!
Why Do Mountain Bikers Need a Bell?
Trails involve many users — bikers, hikers, runners, equestrians. And let’s not forget the wildlife! Having a bell on your MTB provides an essential means of communication to avoid collisions and enhance trail courtesy.
Benefits include:
- Warning Others of Your Approach – A friendly ding ding notifies fellow trail users you’re coming.
- Preventing Surprise Encounters – Bells give a heads up around corners, over crests, and through brush.
- Sharing the Trail – Letting hikers know you’re coming allows them time to safely move aside.
- Alerting Wildlife – The sound warns small animals to clear the trail.
- Alternative to Shouting – A bell provides a polite notice that won’t startle others.
So equip yourself with a trusty bell before hitting the trails — it’s a simple way to communicate and stay safe while riding!
What Makes the Best MTB Bells?
When choosing a mountain bike bell, here are the key features to look for:
- Loud Sound – It needs to cut through woods noise, streams, wind, etc. 80+ decibels is ideal.
- Durable Build – Trail conditions are demanding, so brass, steel and aluminum hold up better than plastic.
- Easy to Mount + Use – Convenient positioning lets you ring the bell without removing hands from the bars.
- Handlebar Compatibility – Ensure the bell attachment fits your specific handlebar diameter.
- Weather Resistant – Frequent wet rides call for a sealed bell and rust-proof materials.
- Added Features – Some bells offer useful extras like on/off switches or mounting flexibility.
8 Best Bike Bells for Mountain Biking
1. Spurcycle Mountain Bell
Key Features
- Machined brass dome + aluminum striker
- 45 gram weight
- Fits 22.2 – 31.8mm diameter bars
- Lifetime guarantee
Overview
The Spurcycle bell is lovingly crafted in the USA using quality CNC machined brass and aluminum components. This gives it an unparalleled loud, clear sound that cuts through trail noise. The classic yet modern profile looks fantastic on any bike. Spurcycle backs the bell with a lifetime guarantee.
Pros
- Superb construction quality and aesthetics
- Versatile fit for most MTB handlebars
- Very loud, attention-grabbing ring
- Made in USA with lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Expensive at around $50+
Bottom Line
Top choice for riders who appreciate precision quality and want a bell with the loudest voice on the trails.
2. Bonmixc Mini Bell
Key Features
- Brass bell with steel clapper
- Fits 21-23mm diameter bars
- Under 50 gram weight
Overview
The Bonmixc mini bell delivers a remarkably loud, clear ring from its compact brass body. The simple steel clapper provides a surprising amount of volume. Just be aware the mounting bracket only fits smaller diameter handlebars.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price around $10
- Slim profile won’t clutter bars
- Easy installation with rubber strap
- Impressively loud for the size
Cons
- Limited handlebar diameter fit range
Bottom Line
Great cheap MTB bell for smaller diameter bars or kids’ bikes.
3. Timber! Mountain Bike Bell
Key Features
- Solid brass bell with internal clapper
- On/off switch to control ringing
- Quick release or bolt mount
Overview
Built specifically for mountain biking, the Timber! bell uses an internal clapper to ring continuously over bumps. This provides a constant warning to nearby trail users as you approach. Flip the switch to silence when desired. Durable brass construction withstands rough riding.
Pros
- Designed for MTB use
- Rings automatically while riding
- Withstands trail abuse and vibration
- On/off switch for selective sound
Cons
- Large size may feel heavy or cluttered
Bottom Line
Great for busy trails where constant ringing is needed to warn others of your approach.
4. RockBros Stainless Steel Bell
Key Features
- Stainless steel construction
- Fits 21-36mm diameter bars
- Under 100 gram weight
Overview
The RockBros stainless bell delivers solid value with classic styling and crisp sound. The stainless steel build provides durability and weather-resistance for rugged trail use. Fits a wide range of handlebar diameters.
Pros
- Great low price under $15
- Classic retro styling
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Fits most handlebar diameters
Cons
- Sound lacks volume at high speed
Bottom Line
Affordable and durable stainless steel bell for casual trail riding.
5. Knog Oi Luxe Bell
Key Features
- CNC machined brass dome
- Fits 22.2 – 31.8mm diameter bars
- Sleek modern design
Overview
With its slender wrapped mounting and brushed metal finish, the Knog Oi Luxe is one of the most stylish bike bells available. The dome creates a pleasant 80+ decibel ring. Just take care with the more delicate striker spring when installing.
Pros
- Premium modern aesthetics
- Loud 80+ decibel sound
- Low profile wrap-around mounting
Cons
- Delicate striker prone to bending
Bottom Line
Stylish bell with loud ring for the design-conscious rider.
6. Crane Riten Bell
Key Features
- Classic dome design
- Brass or aluminum options
- Fits 22-26mm diameter bars
Overview
Drawing on decades of bell-making, this Japanese Crane bell offers a timeless profile paired with warm, pleasant brass tones. The quality construction delivers durability and easy installation for long-lasting use.
Pros
- Beautiful, resonant ring tone
- Durable brass or copper options
- Easy and secure mounting
Cons
- Limited color and size choices
Bottom Line
A traditional yet quality bell for a friendly, melodic alert.
7. Granite Ding Dong Bell
Key Features
- 2-in-1 bell + cowbell
- Zinc alloy construction
- Fits 22-32mm diameter bars
Overview
The Granite Ding Dong packs both a striker bell and a motion-activated cowbell into one cleverly designed body. It provides flexible sound options at a budget price thanks to the zinc alloy build. Just note it only comes in basic black color.
Pros
- Unique 2-in-1 bell and cowbell combo
- Inexpensive but durable construction
- Flexible bell and constant ringing options
Cons
- Only available in black colorway
Bottom Line
A versatile 2-in-1 bell for flexible ringing options on the trail.
8. Firmstrong Classic Brass Bell
Key Features
- Antique brass dome and striker
- Fits 22-32mm diameter bars
- Leather strap mount
Overview
Channel vintage bike style with the Firmstrong Classic brass bell. Expertly shaped brass parts create a timeless look and robust tone. The classy leather mount adds sophistication while keeping installation straightforward.
Pros
- Beautiful antique brass styling
- Full brass parts create loud, enduring ring
- Leather strap provides easy mounting
Cons
- Limited size compatibility
Bottom Line
A classy, vintage-styled bell with full brass tones.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right MTB Bell
Keep these tips in mind when picking the perfect mountain bike bell for your needs:
- Sound volume should match your typical trail noise levels and speeds
- Check handlebar diameter compatibility before purchasing
- Frequent wet weather riding demands a fully sealed and rust-proof bell
- Choose a bell sized appropriately for your particular hand
- Test ringability when mounted to ensure easy access
- Durable materials like brass, steel and aluminum hold up better
- Consider any extra features like on/off switches that could be useful
Taking the time to select the right bell for your specific mountain biking needs will give you peace of mind out on the trails. We hope our bell recommendations help you find the perfect model to keep your rides fun and safe. Happy adventuring!
Let fellow mountain bikers know about this guide to help them choose a trail bell too!
