My wife and I ride Giants. A Revel and a Revel II. These are not actually died in the wool mountain bikes, but more of a cross over type bike with shocks on the front. Ours does not have disc brakes, and somewill say that is the way to go. Ask the dealer what they recommend for the type riding you anticipate you and your son will be doing.
Please do not just go to Wal-Mart and grab a cheap bike. Get good bikes from a dealer that will service and or repair when needed. More of a recipe for success if you will.
