Just bought a bike for SonofV. I got it from the local thrift shop, it's a Rockhopper by Specialized circa mid 90s-00s. It has a number of upgraded components, a new suspension fork by Bomber, front disc brake and front rim brake (and levers) by Avid, a new seat (Bell) and handlebars, etc. I replaced the brake cables and housings (the old ones were shift cable housings--totally inappropriate for brakes). I trued the rear wheel, bought a kickstand, cleaned it up, lubed it, etc. I spent $70 for the bike and about that much on cables and tuneup stuff (side note: I got a pair of
dedicated cable cutters similar to these--they're the Real. Deal. I chastised Luke at the bike shop for not compelling me to buy them earlier.) It's a nice ride now. It will give him a way to get around town for short-ish trips so he's not burning up his bus card or my gas to get to the store or his friends' houses.