My son is currently using a 16" Specialized Hotrock but needs a larger bicycle. He's about 49.5" tall and our local bicycle shop recommends a 20" instead of 24" and I think I agree because I don't want the bicycle too big for him to be comfortable.

However, our local bicycle shop no longer sells Specialized but instead sells Jamis and Raleigh. They suggested the Raleigh MXR 20 (MSRP $189.99 but they are asking $239.99?!) and the Jamis Laser 20 (MSRP $249.99 asking $229.99).

Does anybody have an opinion on either of these bikes?

There is also a Trek dealer about 30 minutes away so I would consider them but they aren't as close as the Raleigh/Jamis dealer.

(I also see the Raleigh Rowdy 20" for MSRP $249.99 but my dealer never mentioned it and I'm not too thrilled with the color but it's OK I guess)