Boys 24" race MTB used or recomendations

[starats]

I am looking for a 24" light weight hardtail or FS bike for my son. He currently has a Giant MTX 250 that is heavy for him and the fork is pretty basic. Any suggestions or used bikes for sale that would fit his needs?

[rodnreel729]

You could take a look at the new Specialized Hardrock Gromrock 24" It's even got disc brakes...

http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2008/bikes/HR_gromrock_char_EL_9180-60.jpg

[Auger N]

You don't say how old or how big your kid is, but depending on how big your son is, he might be ready for a 26" bike.

I recently went shopping for a 24" bike for my 7 year-old. However, I was steered toward the smallest size 13" adult (26" wheels) mountain bike.

The saddle height was very close to the saddle height of the 24" bike and handlebar reach was similar too. On the plus side, the "adult" bike came with nicer components, quick release levers (at last!) and you no longer need to carry a spare 24" tube for your kid if you go off-roading.

If you go this route, you obviously have a lot more room to buy a high-quality bike, as the only limitation is the size of your pocketbook (unlike kids' bikes, which are typically low-end). My kid is not racing yet, so we didn't get him a Cannondale Scalpel or anything like that, but it might work for your son.

Since he will only grow into it, it makes for a better investment as well.

[chowderbutt]

I'd be careful not to get a bike to big for the lad, standover height is critical.

Also get v brakes instead of disks, low end disks usually arent great.

a neat project would be to take a 13" frame and install 24" wheels and avid disks, then when the child grows you could throw on 26" tires and wheels