Originally Posted by
skidder
Nice! Did he do any of the wrenching on it? Even something simple like get him to put the tubes/tires on an off (similar to fixing a flat)? Time invested in building it usually pays off in more appreciation for the end product. Only addition I'd suggest is something to carry stuff with. A saddlebag for flat fix-it stuff would be the first thought, but I'd suggest a light rack on back (even a seatpost rack) with a bag to hold stuff for longer rides (jacket, gloves maybe some munchies, sunscreen, extra water bottle, cellphone, etc).
Every nut, part, bolt, part. He did all the assembly, I assisted with torqueing properly and he learned every inch of the bike. How every part works, why it works in relation with the other. Example when moving the shifter the cable pulls and adjusts the RD. He really likes understanding the headset area. He was hands on the whole way. Was really fun for me this way getting him dirty too.
I have a rear bag for him just haven't put it on the bike yet. He will have a patch kit, extra tube and all that. Pretty much a mirror of what I carry. I will carry his extra jacket in my pocket. Kind of easing into all the other stuff.