>>1088709>>1088715If that's not pasta it should be
The author of this piece is a poet, able to perfectly convey so many truths in these few words
OP, I am also convinced you should consider a proper road bike, but only after that cycling commitment talk with your child. If it looks promising just fucking go for it. It's one of the very best gifts you can give children!
If you do good research before buying used (involve the child!) I'm absolutely certain that the right pre-1990s road bike will represent way more quality per dollar or whatever currency spent, compared to a brand new decent bicycle.
Plus, the usual fiddling necessary with even a good condition used bike bought from a stranger will require learning and using basic mechanical knowledge that any bicycle user should have.
You could also be more ambitious about propulsing your child towards cycling self-sufficiency, by buying a used bicycle with the best quality of frame possible, and the best quality of wheels possible, regardless of the quality or state of the other components. With the right upgrades, this route can give even more bang for the buck when you consider the money spent vs. the end result. And it gives maximum bicycle mechanics learning opportunities. Plus, further improvements are always possible, especially if the passion picks up in the young rider.
Whatever you end up doing do not underestimate the importance of sturdy wheels. Crappy wheels will always have to be maintained (hours of your time and/or wasted money) and if the bike is actually ridden, they will inevitable have to be replaced.
People selling good used road bikes in good condition, well they usually know that what they have rivals or surpasses the current brand new decent rides for sale, so you can see surprising high asking prices. Good bicycles in some state of disrepair can go for a lot less especially if the sellers don't know so much about the quality or rarity of what they've got. Good luck
