My 11 year old needed a new bike (trust me-his was shot) so we found a used Mongoose in the neighborhood, it needed everything, for 40 bucks. He liked it, it's got a nice solid frame-no clue what model it is, but we need to put new brakes, a seat, and grip on it-the tires looked good and the gears and chain look ok. After everything it'll run us about 100 bucks.

Unfortunately, when we brought it into the bike shop, there were all those brand spanking new bikes, 300 bucks and up, that made him drool, and frankly, the way he beats on his bike, I would have been hesitant to buy a new one for him just yet. I know he's been hoping to get into BMX, and I explained that once he gets a grip on what he's doing in BMX, he could get a newer bike in a year or two.

Will a used Mongoose of unknown model work for a beginner at BMX? I want him to be happy with it, and I'm just sorry I took him into the bike shop with me!

If its fairly new, it will probably start falling apart in a matter of months. If its older, back when they built some quality bikes, then you'll get a little more time out of it. Should be a decent start for now though.

I believe it's more than 10 year old-which is also why everything needed replacing.

Thank you so much!

These bikes are meant to get "beat up". I think that if your son is serious about getting into bmx than I would buy him a new bike or at least a better used bike.

He is 11, its not like he's five. Also in 5 or 6 years he'll be driving.

I live in between DC and Balt. In this area the standard Craigslist price for a gently used bikeshop BMX bike is $95 to $150 for entry level rides. I recently bought a Haro X2 that had never been ridden for less than $100. I don't think it was a rare deal.

I would advise you to refrain from sinking $ into a recent model Mongoose unless it is one of those super rare pro qualty bikes that make up like 3% of their sales. Mongoose sold out in the 90s and became a maker of discount store bikes. Sell your Mongoose at a yardsale. Don't wasre money on new parts. You'll never get your money out and the bike once fixed will be heavy and weak. Plus no one will think it's a cool bike.

If you're talking about a late 80s Mongoose then none of this applies and you should restore it with vintage parts and then go on Antiques Roadshow.

Good luck.