Let’s take a look at 5 of my favourite, cheap bike parts for your retro mountain bike build.
Schwalbe Billy Bonkers Tires
Arguably some of the best looking tires for your MTB, the Schwalbe Billy Bonkers are all about fun and speed. They’re actually designed for pump tracks and dirt jumps but they work really well on the street too. The tread pattern is fine tuned for grip in loose conditions, featuring small, tightly packed knobs that provide just the right amount of bite while still rolling fast, and if your cycling on tarmac they still go fast and make a cool noise too.
You can pick these up for between 20€ and 30€ depending on if you go for the folding option (more expensive) or the clinchers. They are available in tan wall or full black.
There are a few different versions of the Bonkers with different compounds, the performance line is faster and lighter whilst the K-Guard version has better puncture protection.
Buy Billy Bonkers:
Avid FR-5 Brake Levers
I love these levers and I’ve used them on everything from do-it-all commuter bikes to fast fixies. Not only are they ergonomically fantastic they are SO cheap. Seriously, Avid, thank you for pricing these at under 7€ per lever. They are a steal.
You can use these on Mechanical Disc or V brakes as well as road style brakes and they feature an ambidextrous design so you can install them on either side of your bars, no fuss. They come with a reach adjustment feature, letting you customise the feel for better comfort and responsiveness.
The only downside that I have noticed is that the paint will eventually start to rub off on the levers themselves.
Fabric Scoop Saddle
I’ve used this saddle for YEARS and even after trying other brands I always seem to end up back with a Scoop. Starting at 39€ they’re not the cheapest product on this list but you shouldn’t skimp out too much when it comes to saddles.
Now of course saddles can be very personal when it comes to fit and just because my rear end loves this shape doesn’t mean that yours will. Fortunately, Fabric offer the Scoop in three different fit profiles (Flat, Shallow, and Radius) so chances are you might find one that suits you.
It’s a great saddle for MTB’s but I’ve also used them for road and commuting with no problems. It’s designed with a unique three-part construction, using a flexible base, soft foam, and a durable, waterproof microfiber cover that work together to give you a smooth, pressure-free ride. No hard edges here—just a saddle that feels supportive and forgiving, even on longer adventures.
Shimano BR-T4000 V Brakes
These are a set of rock solid, reliable and CHEAP V-Brakes from Shimano and they pair really well with the Avid brake levers mentioned earlier in this post.
They’re a no-nonsense choice for riders who want reliable stopping power on a budget, the adjustable spring tension lets you fine-tune the brakes to your liking. They come in black or silver to match the aesthetic of your bike and the stock pads are decent.
There are certainly better V Brakes out there but for around 15€ you can’t go wrong with these.
SKS Bluemels Fenders
Whilst not for everyone, if you are using your MTB for commuting like I do, some reliable mud guards (fenders) are a must. You can get away without mudguards for a while, but trust me, once you get caught in a surprise torrential downpour you’ll be wishing you had some protection.
For around 30€ The SKS Bluemels are full-coverage fenders and are designed to keep you (and your bike) dry and clean, no matter what the weather or trail conditions throw at you.
Constructed with a tough aluminum core encased in a weather-resistant plastic, these fenders are both sturdy, rustproof and lightweight. The mounting hardware is rock-solid and allows for a secure fit with minimal rattling, even on rough roads. Plus, SKS has added flexible spoiler tips to help prevent water from splashing back onto your feet or your riding buddies.
Do you own any of these parts?