Rebuild vs. Used for 14 year old present

[miguele3]

I have a 13 year old boy who is turning 14 and wants a bike for his birthday. My wife doesn't want to spend a bundle because he tends to be irresponsible, not uncommon for the age. But spending $200 on a bike makes me think he will get a worthless bike. I'm thinking of having my old Peugeot PX-10 rebuilt for him as a present or buying a used bike. Any thoughts from you riders? The PX-10 was a pretty good bike back in its day with the Reynolds aluminum frame. The problem I had with it was the derailleur which because of the odd set-up you couldn't put a decent one on it. This is a bike I have had probably for over 30 years and will need a lot of work, but it might be kind of cool to fix-up.

[masiman]

The PX-10 was kind of a little secret IIRC. I think there was a slew of different model numbers that I could never keep straight as to their purpose (PFN, PKN, UO, etc.). I think the PX was a nice club racer, in that it was fairly inexpensive but compared very favorably to the high end racers, great value for the money. But I digress. If you decided to go indexing, your likely cost to upgrade will be more than what you could get on Craigslist with newer parts. Additionally, I am almost certain you would need to spread the rear triangle. It is originally probably a 5 or 6 speed (sometimes 7) with likely 126mm spacing (it could be 120 or 130, but I am guessing 126). If it is 130, than you don't have to worry about spreading. The other part in all of this besides the cost, is what kind of bike does he want? Does he like retro/vintage/old school? Because this bike certainly is that in spades. Does he want a road bike?

I have a Masi in my basement of slightly older vintage than your Peugeot. I plan to restore it for me. Maybe one of my kids will 1) fit it 2) want to ride it, but I'm not holding my breath. I'd be happy if that happened, but even if it does not, I won't give up that bike :).

[st0ut]

What kinda bike does he want 200 is good if he is into BMX.