I am a 15 year old XC rider/racer. I want to be a messenger but I have no clue how good I need to be to accel at the job. I have a hardtail KHS Alite 1000 and I think it would work until I get the Azonic DH full suspension bike soon. I just want to know what kind of skills I need to have to be good at it and not get killed or laughed at.

Don't let my age fool you

To start, being a courier is not about what kind of bike you ride. I know guys that kick *** on the street, and ride ten dollar sally-ann bikes. They don't lock them up, and if they get stolen they just go get another one. Lots of couriers leave their best bike at home anyway, and ride a second one for the streets where bikes, and gear see more mileage, and abuse than warranties are written for. Fixies (track bikes) are popular for a number of reasons, one of them being that there are less parts that need fixing. 'No brakes. No gears. No problems.'

In my opinion the most important piece of equipment for being a courier is your head. You have to read waves of traffic like a surfer reads the ocean. To make decent coin you have to really want to ride your *** off. You don't make money standin' on the corner trying to look cool or complaing to dispatch. To get respect: work hard, and keep your head up and aware.

Yes Yes be aware of traffic! Be very aware! Most people in cars will not see you! Do not act like speed racer! Brakes are your friend! Wear a helmet! Get a good bag! Learn shortcuts around your area! Get a good patchkit and carry spare tubes! Have good raingear!
Your age to me is irrelevant!