For a 13-year old kid with no cycling background, even the 10 mile rides can be a challenge. If they're undersized or late developers, even more so.

Before our family left BSA, I was a counselor for two merit badge groups. I was pleased that most of them stayed at it and took an active role in route planning and riding, and encouraged each other, even if from different troops. Most of the boys showed up with old mountain bikes or newer big-box bikes, often in the size that was in stock or the "one they'll grow into", not the size that would fit them at that time.

If my son's experience is typical, then that's not a good sign. Unlike other parents I've known, I never pushed him into cycling or tried to be the "sports dad" that had to have junior follow in his footsteps (or in this case, draft) no matter what. I tried to make rides reasonable and fun since he was little, and in general we had a good time whether on the tandem or separate bikes. However, after completing the 50 miler and achieving the badge about 6 years ago, he's shown little interest in riding or even talking about why he's no longer interested. I think it's because in his mind during the merit badge process cycling changed from something you did to go someplace or for fun to something you endured for "long distances" to check off a box; e.g. it became homework.

I've asked if he wants to do some rides since, but all I get is a short "no". I'm hoping when he goes off to college to finish his degree he rediscovers the advantages of bicycle travel, but I'm not entirely optimistic.

As mentioned above, our family permanently left Scouting several years ago (for reasons unrelated to cycling), so I no longer counsel any merit badges.