My son is (a small) 9 and he's been MTBing for a couple of years, mainly Aston Hill (as we live nearby) but also been to Glentress a few times (as my folks are up there).

He's currently got a Trek MT220, which he's slowly destroying - good lad.

But now I'm looking for something better for him, and have been looking at the Norco B-Line 24" full sus downhill/freeride bike - anybody got one, or can advise any other options?

I believe that with the Norco I'll be able to reduce the spring weights and hopefully both lower it, and make it far softer as he's rather light?

What's the budget?

Perhaps a Kona Stinky 24?

Budget wise, £1000?

We saw a Stinky 24 at Glentress in the summer, but they've got quite a high standover height.

But, thanks for the suggestion.

Or are there ways of modifying the Stinky to get it down, as he's a light guy.

And I'm not sure as he's so light, whether he'd be better with air-forks/shoxs - as that way we could get plenty of sag?

He tried the Norco at Leisure Lakes, and its not far off. 

So I've done a deal as they've 2007 bikes at £700 (with 2008's at £1000), with fit/supply lighter weight springs front/back.

He'll get it for Christmas.