What to look for when buying a youth bike (grades 6-12):

• lightweight (30 lbs or less)

• Narrower tires (2.4 in wide or less)

• Lower travel in the fork and shock (120mm or less)

• x-country instead of downhill geometry

• make sure the frame is the correct size for  the rider (see sizing chart below)

• If you are not able to buy a brand new bike look for a used version of the bikes listed below at your local bike shop or see the website links below

Used Bike Websites:

https://www.bikeexchange.com/s/mountain-bikes

https://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/list/?category=75

https://www.ebay.com/b/Mountain-Bikes/177831/bn_1867986

Visit Your Local Bike Shop

XC (Full-Suspension)

XC (Hardtail)

Cross Country Bike Manufacturers

I selected these bikes on the basis that most parents are not wanting to, or are not able to spend a lot of money on a bike for their teenager.  If you are looking for a higher level of bike just visit my homepage (bikes over $4,000) or my "Bikes" page (bikes under $4,000) for a great selection of hard tail and cross country bikes.  Most of these bikes come in Small and Extra small frame sizes.