From a lot of angles, the Diamondback Line struck owners as good value; a compromise between performance and price.
The componentry is decent – including a Suntour XCR fork, FSR headset and Shimano drivetrain.
The geometry of the Line was judged as progressive, manageable and well suited to ascents.
In reviews, the Line was regularly used as an example of good starter mountain bike.
The disc brakes were not considered high-end by seasoned riders, but definitely seen as ample.
Wider-than-usual handlebars satisfied a number of riders.
The simple 1 x 9 drivetrain shifted well and provided sufficient gearing for trail riders.
The smaller 24” version held up to adult use and general kid abuse. It was described as having quality adult parts - on a kid’s bike. The 1 x 8 gearing suited stronger riders.

6 reasons not to buy

Owners who used the Line as an all-rounder ride, expressed the need for more gears, to avoid bottoming out on downhills.
There was a general consensus that the Line needs a replacement narrow-wide chainring – as reports of the chain falling off – are common. The supplied chain tensioner didn’t help. Most riders removed the chainguard (calling it tacky and annoying).
The handlebars on the 24” version were frustratingly wide for one parent.
While experienced cyclists swore by the value of the Line, a couple of newer riders felt it was overpriced.
Some owners felt that it was a bit cheap to have square taper cranks on a newer MTB.
The non-tapered headset limits options for modern replacement forks.

Bottom line

Overall, the impression received from owners of all ages, is that this is a great-value, entry-level trail bike. Owners were honest in their appraisal of the fork and brakes, which were described as being not-amazing, but definitely adequate for off-road use. The chainring was the main area requiring improvement, but even this is a small investment. The smaller 24” Line provided a version for kids with componentry almost equal to that of the adults’ bike. Longer-term owners recommended the Diamondback Line to aspiring mountain-bikers.