We sell bikes that have street and dirt versions. One example is the Subrosa Salvador. Of course you could change the tires pretty inexpensively if you found a street version you like. With most brands, the cheaper bikes will also have a shorter top tube length, but also are Hi Ten steel. There are many good bikes that will be perfect for him. Most of the time at my shop it comes down to the look of the bike 1st, 2nd is price, and quality last.