Mountain biking, now a popular global sport, originated in the 1970s with modified heavy cruiser bicycles. Enthusiasts in Northern California began using older, single-speed balloon tire bikes to navigate rugged mountain trails. These early versions, known as "ballooners" in California, "klunkers" in Colorado, and "dirt bombers" in Oregon, laid the foundation for modern mountain biking.

The innovation of Joe Breeze, a bicycle frame builder, marked a significant turning point. Breeze developed what is widely regarded as the first true mountain bike, transforming the sport. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, road bicycle manufacturers began producing mountain bikes using advanced, lightweight materials such as M4 aluminum. One of the earliest production models was the 1979 Lawwill Pro Cruiser, designed by Don Koski and built by Terry Knight in Oakland, with an estimated production run of 600 bikes.

The first mass-produced mountain bike, the Specialized Stumpjumper, debuted in 1981. Its introduction marked a major shift in the bicycle industry, highlighting the growing popularity of mountain biking. Randolph Ross, executive vice president of Ross Bicycles Inc., noted its significant impact, stating that these bikes represented one of the biggest shifts in the industry's image.

During the 1990s and 2000s, mountain biking surged in popularity, transitioning from a niche sport to a mainstream activity. This period saw the establishment of an international racing circuit and a world championship, alongside various freeride competitions such as the FMB World Tour and the Red Bull Rampage. Today, mountain biking continues to evolve, attracting enthusiasts and professional athletes worldwide.