Originally Posted by
Iride01
Knock the rust and corrosion off with a wire brush and then assess the damage. If the spokes and other places don't have large pits or are materially thinner in places then maybe just leave it be or spray some paint on it to make it look better or some preservative lubricant just to keep it at bay.
How much longer will the child be able to fit this size bike? Surely a new bike will be in the works soon enough.
I'd also think you'll find a replacement wheel less expensive than replacing all the spoke and nipples.
Those look pretty nasty, but I'd probably first try cleaning and painting. Then see how well they last. Usually a person will break one or two spokes at a time, and the wheel will still be stable enough to safely stop.
It looks like the chain is probably toast too, although some lube and a little work can do wonders for a stiff chain.
Many kids will hardly put 100 miles on a 24" starter bike in their lifetime. Unless the family is really into cycling.