I am a vote for throwing friction thumb shifters on. this is what a bike charity I wrenched for in the past does.
benefit is it will work, and keep working even with huffy lowend components any thing with indexing is going to be sketchy even with rapid fire
I would much rather kids had something that works, than something that worked when a knowledgeable person set it up, but doesn't after the abuse kids give bikes
This is also my personal choice/experience when helping neighbors/friends who know I a am a Bike guy
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Life is too short not to ride the best bike you have, as much as you can
(looking for Torpado Super light frame/fork or for Raleigh International frame fork 58cm)