I’m with Rachelmauden on this one. The Walmart bikes are designed for neighborhood riding for people who don’t really mountain bike on rocky rooty trails. It’s a shame that Mongoose is now just a name on a cheap bike. I used to XC race (when XC racing was still cool!) a Mongoose IBOC Comp back in the 90’s. Still have the frame in my basement – it’s stout as hell! My kids (son 8, daughters 6 1/2 and 4) are learning the value of good bikes. Son has a 20″ wheel Trek MT20 that I’ve tricked out with some lighter parts and middle daughter has a GT Laguna. Both bikes are solid performers and completely serviceable with readily available parts. Like Rachel posted, if you’re even considering mountain biking, there are so many better options than picking up a heavy boat anchor from Walmart. Heck, most mountain bikers have more than one bike and are more than happy to loan one out to a friend who is new to the sport.