ASK MBA: WHAT BIKE FOR A 13-YEAR OLD?

NEW BIKE DAY

Q: Hi, MBA crew! I am a 13-year-old on a mountain bike team for middle school. I want to be on the high school team when I get there next year. I wanted to ask about doing bike tests/reviews for more affordable bikes—the best bang for my buck. I am working for my family and neighbors trying to earn money for a new bike. I would love your thoughts and reviews on the best affordable bike.

Wyatt

Simi Valley, California

A: Awesome to hear you are looking at joining the team and doing some racing. Have you seen our “2022 Buyer’s Guide”? We’ve got some great options with descriptions on each bike. As far as affordability, it’s hard to beat some of the direct-to-consumer offerings from Canyon at the moment. A bike like their full-suspension Lux or the Exceed hardtail would be a great investment that you could upgrade as you go and develop with your high school team. As most of our editors did in school to get by, we recommend stopping by your local bike shop to see what may be available. It also never hurts to ask what the coaches or previous team members have in their garages for options.

Have a question for the MBA crew? You can send your brain busters to [email protected].