Wanted: 26er, 27.5 | Frame: ~16-17" | $1000

Hello Pinkbike - looking to put my 13 yo Son on a decent older MTB that isn't trashed. At the price range I am looking, 26er / Hardtail is likely, but a 27.5 FS would be awesome.

Santa (Cruz) was a little too good to me this year. Now the extreme disparity between my 2020 Santa Cruz Bronson and what he's riding, is Borderline Child Abuse to be perfectly frank. I like to ride trails with him, but this is not a good look.

It seems my options are either throwing money at ultimately pointless upgrades for the 2012 GT Avalanche (BCA), a better fork (SunTour XCM on it, it sucks) better drivetrain, tires, full tune-up... all the everything, which doesn't seem rational.

I have in mind either a good 26er FS - or an decent 27.5 (HT or FS). Local pickup preferred, should not pay more than $600-750. Will definitely get in trouble for this, but what else can I do?

Msg me here if you have something suitable. I will keep an eye on local CL as well. Thanks!