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I got a great deal on a Kink Kicker for $ 255.04 for my 10 yr old"s B-day.
I ride it as much as him. We love it. (Thanks for the advice everyone.)
I want to get a new bike for my other boy's 6th B-day. He rides a16" Specialized Hotrocks now. I got it for $50 ($230 retail).
It's a little smaller than other 16" bikes, which was good for him. It's so light (aluminum frame) that he can do bunny hops, wheelies and jumps with it easily. He's much more into doing tricks and jumps than his brother.
I was going to get him a bigger 16" but I want to go straight to an 18" now. I know weight isn't the most important consideration for most of us but he's only 44 lbs. and 45" and a few lbs. can make a big difference in whipping it around off jumps and doing bunny hops.
I like the Cult 18" because the aluminum frame but I saw that the United 18" only weighs 23lbs, even though it's Hi-ten.
Weighing 44lbs. he isn't at high risk of breaking his frame, so hi-ten should be fine. I was worried about the weight of the bike but at 23 lbs. it's pretty light.
The cult is $379.95 but I can get the United (2013) for $277.46. It regularly goes for $369.95.
https://www.jrbicycles.com/storefront/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=4772
Most of the cromo frames weigh about the same and the price is great. It has all sealed bearings,(headset, bottom bracket, rear hub) except for the front hub, which is loose ball.
He can ride his 16" until he feels comfortable with the 18, then it's on to the 20" (if he's still into it).
Any alternate opinions for a good 18" at a competitive price?