We have had 4 different brands, and my advice would be to start with one of the KTM Adventures (either mini adventure or senior adventure depending on your son's size). Beginners need to learn on something with a relatively soft clutch until they master throttle and brake control. We have had an Italjet (which is not made anymore), Yamaha PW50, KTM Mini Adventure, and two Cobra CM50's. The KTM SX and SX Junior (Pro Senior and Pro Junior), Polini X-1 and X-3, Cobra CM and King all hit way too hard for a beginner. The PW is small and lacks suspension. The Honda is a good bike for all sizes (kids and adults), but the KTM Mini Adventure is a better bike just for kids. The motor is mellow and the suspension is great. I assume that the Senior Adventure is similar to the Mini, but in a larger frame.