He’s turning 13 and other than kids bikes (that I also gave him) this is his first new bike. He’s currently riding a hand-me-down beater that came from elsewhere that he’s always working on. I’m hoping it makes a difference in his life. He needs it. This model - Rockhopper 27.5, is on sale ($150 off) and I got it through my LBS which was also a pleasure. I did a quick test ride, went through the gears, and its actually a very solid, tight, quality bike. Also got him a decent helmet to go with it - my LBS gave me a break on the price on that too.
I'm the same with my grandson (he is currently riding about on an Orange Five Pro). I try to be the same with my granddaughter, but she never feels at home on a bike!
So, I bought her a sewing machine. And before the accusations of sexism start, it was what she wanted more than anything!
A little update. Today is his actual birthday. He’s 13. The pic is his mothers b-day present to him - her version of good parenting I guess. You can see the bike I got him in the background. Barely. I’ll go pick it up later today and fix whatever is wrong, for what thats worth.