NomarsGirl...not sure if you are a parent but probably not if you are advising a father to withhold vital info about a bicycle to his son. Of course a 10 year old child will notice what bike he is riding. Woman's or men's...he will know. OP please do your sons a favor and get him a proper man's bike in the size that fits him. Because my wife's underwear could possibly fit me, should I wear it? Maybe I will try :-) anyway, woman's bikes have women specific seats and geometry. Of course there is nothing wrong with a boy riding a woman's bike, but don't let his friends find out at school or the neighborhood. Woman's bike or men's bike...don't forget to get him a helmet and front/rear led lights so he can be visible to others. Also a fun color bright bike would also make the bike more visible rather than an old woman's black or brown bike :-) Let us know of your decision. Off to go for a 20 mile bike ride now. Be back around 1ish can't wait to see a response from NomarsGirl :-)