Years ago, Diamondback was known for budget bikes, but what’s the situation today? Let’s take a closer look with our Diamondback bike reviews and find out.
Jump to bikes:
- Diamondback Bikes – Different Types
– Mountain Bikes
– Kids - Warranty and Assembly
- Frames and Components
- Bike Sizes
- Best Diamondback Deals
Contents
- Diamondback: Then and Now
- Bike Types
- Diamondback Mountain Bikes
- Diamondback Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
- Hardtail Diamondback Mountain Bikes
- Diamondback Gravel Bikes
- Diamondback Hybrid Bikes
- Diamondback Electric Bikes
- Kids’ Diamondback Bikes
- Diamondback’s Warranty
- Assembly
- Diamondback Bike Sizes
- How Much Does A Diamondback Bike Cost?
- Diamondback vs. Other Brands
- Bottom Line
Diamondback: Then and Now
Diamondback was founded in 1977 in Washington, USA, as a BMX manufacturer. Initially, they focused only on BMX bikes and sponsored riders, which helped them gain popularity.
In 1982, Diamondback launched its first MTB model called the Ridge Runner. It was their competitor to the famous Specialized Stumpjumper and was one of the world’s first production mountain bikes.
They launched the Diamond Back Racing (DBR) team in 1998, which succeeded on the global mountain bike stage. This saw them win many awards, from the US men’s National XC championships to a bronze medal in the Atlanta Olympics Women’s XC.
Since then, Diamondback bikes have been a mainstay on the recreational mountain bike scene. They own the patent for the Level Link suspension platform, a feature on high-end Diamondback mountain bikes. They also have an extensive selection of hybrids, gravel/adventure, and e-bikes.
Bike Types
Diamondback offers a variety of bike types and price points, from full-suspension MTBs to city e-bikes and 20” kids’ bikes, ranging from $475 to $5,850. However, the brand’s most popular models are mountain, gravel, and kids’ bikes.
- Mountain: Full-suspension, hardtail
- Gravel/Adventure
- Hybrid Diamondback bike
- E-bike
- Kids
In every category, they offer unisex bikes only. In our Diamondback bike review, you’ll see something for almost everyone. Diamondback also has partner brands: Redline BMXs and IZIP commuter bikes. These can be accessed through the Diamondback website.
Diamondback Mountain Bikes
The largest chunk of Diamondback’s range is mountain bikes for adults and kids. Again, they offer full suspension builds, a fat bike (kids only), and hardtails across a wide price range.
Diamondback Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
Yowie
The Diamondback Yowie builds are entry/mid-level full-suspension 29ers designed with cycling enthusiasts in mind. If you want to upgrade from a basic hardtail model or an entry-level full suspension model, the Yowie series is for you. The five Diamondback full-suspension mountain bikes available are called Yowie 1, 2, 3, 4C, and 5C, and you can purchase them for $3,100 to $5,550.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
or read more in our Diamondback Mountain Bike Review
Release
The Release Diamondback full suspension mountain bikes are great for riders who are not afraid to press harder on the pedals and ride trails more aggressively. You can choose from five models in this line, with price tags varying between $2,850 and $5,850 and a choice of 27.5” or 29” wheels and aluminum or carbon frames.
They are named as follows: Release 1, Release 2, Release 3, Release 4C, and Release 5C.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
or read our Detailed Review of Diamondback Release
Hardtail Diamondback Mountain Bikes
Overdrive
The Overdrive line has two budget-friendly builds for light trail riding, one for complete beginners and another for entry-level riders. These 29ers are priced at $750 and $1,000.
They have 100mm front suspension, basic 2x Shimano drivetrains, and hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, depending on the build.
If you’re looking for an affordable hardtail mountain bike from Diamondback that you can use to practice skills or ride for fun on the weekends, the Overdrive series is a good choice.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Hook and Line
The Hook and Line families are two similar models built around the same frame, so they are put in the same basket. Again, they’re entry-level models perfect for commuters or recreational riders.
Each family has one build, priced at $815 (Hook) and $900 (Line). They both have the same aluminum frame and 27.5” wheels coupled with front suspension, basic 1x or 2x drivetrains, and disc brakes.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Hatch
The Hatch is a Diamondback mountain bike intended to simplify things as much as possible. There is currently one model available, called the Hatch 3. This is a budget hardtail priced at $775.
The Hatch can be perfect for weekend cycling warriors and those who want to do mixed-terrain commuting. The wheel sizes are progressive, meaning small frames get 27.5” wheels while larger frames get 29ers.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Diamondback Gravel Bikes
Haanjo
The Haanjo Diamondback gravel bike series is made for those who live for adventure. This family has four models in total, perfect for taking the path less traveled.
If you frequently ride on gravel and light singletrack and you want a bike that goes fast on the road, Diamondback’s Haanjo series is available from $1,000 to $2,950.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Diamondback Hybrid Bikes
Division
The Division Diamondback hybrid bike is currently sold in a single build at the upper end of the entry-level market ($925).
This is a 650b hybrid with relatively wide 47mm tires, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and 9-speed Shimano Acera gearing.
Of the two hybrid Diamondback bikes, this is the more versatile choice, capable of handling light off-road terrain but compatible with commuter accessories like a rack and fenders.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Metric
The Metric hybrid Diamondback bike includes three entry-level builds (1, 2, and 3) ranging from $625 to $975.
This is a more sporty, fast, and nimble hybrid with larger 700c wheels and fast-rolling Vee Tire Zilent 35mm tires. It has wider 3×8 or 3×9-speed gearing and comes with rim, mechanical, or hydraulic disc brakes, depending on the build.
Choose this model if you fancy urban speed over off-road capability.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Diamondback Electric Bikes
Current
The Current is an electric Diamondback gravel bike built with powerful Bosch electronics, versatile components, and a top speed of 28 mph for thrill-seeking off-roaders.
This model has 50mm Maxxis tires, 11-speed Shimano GRX gearing, powerful GRX hydraulic discs, and a 64-mile range.
If you want premium mid-drive assistance on a capable gravel bike, consider Diamondback’s Current at $4,100.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Union
The Union is a hybrid Diamondback electric bike with two builds to choose from. This is another high-speed Class 3 e-bike with a powerful Bosch 85Nm motor.
Both builds have 10-speed Deore gearing, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and 2.4” Schwalbe tires. However, the premium Union 2 has a bigger 500Wh battery, lights, and Bosch’s high-end Kiox display.
Consider these commuter-equipped Diamondback electric bikes if you have a solid budget and want power and comfort for your urban rides. The prices are $3,750 and $4,300.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Kids’ Diamondback Bikes
Diamondback Kids’ Mountain Bikes
Diamondback produces a solid range of kids’ mountain bikes, including fat bikes, XC bikes, and trail bikes.
El Oso Nino 20” means ‘The Kid Bear’ in Spanish, a fitting name for this sturdy-looking fat bike for kids. This is great for young children who like riding off-road on rocks, sand, or in the snow and is suitable for kids ages four to nine.
The Hook, Line, and Sync’R Diamondback 24” bikes are hardtails aimed at kids 53″ to 62″ tall and roughly eight to twelve years old. They cover three price points, offering different capabilities to riders with varying skill levels and trail ambitions.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Kids’ Diamondback Hybrid Bikes
Diamondback also makes two hybrid bikes for kids, called the Metric and the Division.
The Metric 24” is a cheap hybrid bike for kids priced at $475 and aimed at kids who ride casually for fun and recreation. This is a basic rim brake bike with shock-absorbent 1.75” tires and 7-speed gearing for easy pedaling on mixed gradients. This 24” bike is best for riders four to nine.
The Division Diamondback 24” bike is a higher-end hybrid and more capable choice for young kids (between 54” and 61”) who like to mix day-to-day riding on pavement with some light off-roading on dirt or gravel paths. This model has more powerful mechanical disc brakes and wider 2.125 Kenda tires.
See All Models on Diamondback.com
Are Diamondback Women’s Bikes Still Available?
In the past, there was a full range of Diamondback bikes for women, including MTB, road, city, and gravel models. However, the brand has moved away from sex-specific models in favor of a unisex approach. One of the most popular was the Vital women’s Diamondback bike, a stylish Dutch-style city bike, as well as the Haanjenn women’s gravel bike.
This move away from separate men’s and women’s lines has been a common trend within the industry, with very few brands still using this business model. However, there are some female-specific brands, such as Giant’s Liv or Santa Cruz’s Juliana.
If you want to learn more, read our overview of the 15 Best Bikes for Women.
Diamondback’s Warranty
When purchasing a bike, it’s essential to consider the brand’s warranty and what it covers and doesn’t cover. 
Diamondback rigid frames have a lifetime warranty, and full-suspension mountain bikes have a five-year warranty on the front triangle and one year for the swing arm.
How does it work?
If something’s wrong with your frame, contact Diamondback. I’ve read that sometimes it’s really quick, and in other instances it takes time.
Your issue must be a result of ordinary usage. If you crash your bike into a wall and it breaks, you may not be covered by warranty. If an issue arises from normal usage, it falls under Diamondback’s warranty.
However, warranty issues are something relatively rare. I’ve never had Diamondback warranty issues because their frames are pretty strong. However, it’s good to know that you are protected.
Assembly
One of the most common questions people ask about Diamondback is, “How hard is it to assemble a Diamondback bike?”
This concern is understandable since all bikes bought online come partially pre-assembled. To give you an honest answer, you need some experience to do it properly, but you can take it to a local bike shop if you’re not confident.
Do It Yourself (DIY)
Typically, on Diamondback bikes, you must attach the saddle, handlebar, and wheels and adjust the gears. The last step is the hardest in most cases. It’s not particularly challenging, but it takes time and practice to get it right.
Let me point out all of the steps and things you need to do to assemble a DB bike:
- Open and remove everything from the box. Find the box containing all of the small parts and cut all zip ties holding things in place
- Insert the seat post into the seat tube and tighten the saddle
- Attach the handlebar to the stem
- Insert the rear brake clamps
- Attach the pedals. Make sure they rotate counter-clockwise
- Check the cable lining
- Install brake calipers and remove dick brake protective plastics
- Attach the quick release (QR clamps) or thru-axle through the rims
- Remove the plastic protector and attach the wheels
- Secure the wheels and adjust the calipers
- Adjust the front and rear derailleurs
- Finally, inflate the tires and find the right saddle height and handlebar position. Check every bolt and nut on your newly assembled bikes!
If you’re having trouble, you can always bring the bike to your local bike shop. Also, the Diamondback’s assembly instructions will help you.
There are also ready-ride series for those who don’t want to assemble their bikes after purchase. With these models, you just need to attach the seat, the front wheel, and the pedals, a two-minute job.
Diamondback Bike Sizes
The company makes different sizes for all of its models. Typically, they have between three and five frame sizes. By choosing the frame that matches your height and adjusting the stem and saddle, you should find a suitable position.
How to get the right size bike?
One disadvantage of buying a bike online is that you can’t try it first. However, since the trend is on the rise, there are many valuable size charts on every product webpage. I have also written about it in my detailed bike size chart guide. All you need to know is your height (and ideally inseam length, too) to choose the right size.
But always refer to the manufacturer’s model-specific charts when possible. Always use frame size as the reference when sizing a bike; don’t use wheel size.
Diamondback bikes have kids’ 20 and 24-inch tire sizes, mountain bikes have 26”, 27.5”, and 29” wheel sizes, and hybrids and gravel bikes have 650b or 700c wheels.
How Much Does A Diamondback Bike Cost?
The prices of Diamondback bikes range from $475 for a cheap kids’ bike to $5,850 for the Yowie 5C performance carbon MTB.
However, they are typically cheaper than their competitors. I did some research and found that Diamondback mountain bikes cost significantly less than most other best mountain bikes of similar quality.
Diamondback bikes tend to offer high quality at a more affordable price. How do they do it? It’s pretty simple: they don’t have retailer costs because their business model is based on online sales. They then pass some of those savings to the customer.
So, as you’ve read in this Diamondback bike review, the brand offers a wide range of bikes at prices for everyone.
Diamondback vs. Other Brands
Let’s compare Diamondback with a few competing brands.
Diamondback has been around for several decades. Yes, Schwinn has a longer history, but compared to Trek and Scott, Diamondback has similar experience in the industry. In addition, I regularly see discounts from Diamondback, more often compared to other better-known brands.
When choosing between brands, you want to look at the components first. If you compare the price and spec, the weight, and the reviews from customers online, you’ll get a good idea of which bike provides better value.
Bottom Line
Diamondback has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a BMX manufacturer. Today, it’s a household name in the biking world, known for its high-quality, affordable mountain bikes, e-bikes, kids’ bikes, and gravel bikes.
This brand has something for most cyclists, from recreational adventure riders or those looking for a reliable commuter bike to serious mountain bikers.
Diamondback mountain bikes are particularly noteworthy, with models like the Yowie and Release offering some serious bang for your buck. Likewise, the Haanjo gravel bike is widely recognized as one of the best models for the price.
The brand also has a range of kids’ bikes, so the little ones aren’t left out, and they offer a small selection of e-bikes and hybrids.
One thing’s for sure: Diamondback’s commitment to quality and competitive pricing hasn’t wavered over the years. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned veteran, you can’t go wrong with a Diamondback.
With a wide range of prices, they’ve got options for every budget. So, if you’re in the market for a new bike, Diamondback should definitely be on your shortlist.
Hello, I just picked up a Diamondback Criterium at an auction. I can’t find any info on it online, would you happen to know anything about this model? Is it a decent bike, or one of their lower end box store models?
Thanks!
Hi Beth! From what I could find on cycling forums, this was an entry-level / mid-range road bike produced around the mid 2000’s.