The right bike for your kid

My older boys are in 6th and 7th grade.  Mavrick, is 11 and weighs about 85 lbs soaking wet, and is about 4' 10".  He has been riding continually on two wheels  for three years now.  He has in just the last few months felt comfortable enough to move from a 65 to an 85.  We purchased the 85 for him in the spring.  To be honest, he just wasn't ready for it.  His legs weren't long enough to keep the bike upright.  The strength in his legs weren't strong enough to start the bike.  And mentally, it was a lot more bike then the 65.  It really wasn't until about the first of August that he was able to "fit" on the 85, and now he loves it.

I say all this because when you have a kid that doesn't start riding a 50 at the age of four or five, it can be difficult as a parent to put them on the right bike.  AND just because it fits does not mean that your kid is ready for what he CAN ride. He may have the desire to ride a bigger bike, just make sure he has the ability.   It's kind of like being at the water park during the summer, "just because you CAN wear it does not me that you SHOULD wear it." 

My boys have a friend from school that wants to start riding with his dad.  This kid is probably about 115 lbs and about 5' 2".  He was telling my boys that he and his dad were going to get 250's.  Now Michael, my cautious one, said to his dad "Mr Cash, Johnny is gonna kill himself on a 250."  Johnny is almost 13 and never been on a dirt bike.  He may fit on a 250, but he is in no way prepared for the power he could get out of a 250.  While I don't expect Johnny to kill himself, a broken arm wouldn't be surprising.  Then there is also the chance that he won't be able to handle it - the weight of it, the power, starting it, shifting it or riding it.  What happens is Johnny gets frustrated and just decides that it is not for him and Mr Cash has two 250's sitting in the garage till he puts them on Craig's list.

I guess what I am trying to tell you is don't let egos get in your way of the right starter bike for you or your kid.  Just about anyone can ride an 85.  Find someone who has one and take it for a spin.  Then move up until you find the bike that fits your body and your ability.  I promise your experience will be much better!