If the kid has ridden great distances before and dad has ridden the route with the kid then I'd say there's another reason. Forget it kid. Sponge off the dude as long as you can. I actually am going to encourage my kids not to get a job when that time comes. (13, 11, 6) I didn't with my oldest (he's 30 now) and he'd probably thank me now. It's true, you work your whole life why start now? Get a job closer to home, mow grass, lift stuff, walk dogs, babysit, shovel, paint, etc, etc... Make an "odd jobs" flyer and post it, push it, hand it out. Make a sandwich board (google it kid) and stand around wearing it. How much money does a 16 y/o need? If you got a girlfriend or some dame doesn't want to be your girl because your broke, consider it the best lesson you ever received. Don't work any more than have to just yet kid. There's plenty of time for that.