THAT SPECIAL PRESENT...

1. The Green Machine: What's Christmas without a new bike under the tree Back in the 1970s, the Green Machine was the Jaguar of Big Wheels, a sleek green bike that could do impressive skids end spinouts. Huffy's new model can do all that, only now it's made of sturdy metal tubing with a rubber front tire, instead of the breakable, all-plastic affair of 30 years ago. $99.99, from Huffy Bicycle Co.; www.huffybikes.com or 937/743-5011.

DOLLS AND ACTION FIGURES WITH A POSITIVE MESSAGE

2. My Scene: Traditional Barbie has gone more active and modern with this line of cooler, hipper dolls, decked out in the latest fashions-but also the latest active wear, such as skis and snowboards. $13.99, Mattel; www.myscene.com or 800/524-8697.

3. Justice League: Based on the popular Cartoon Network series, this action figure line includes all the classic superheroes-Superman, Barman, The Flash as well as dynamic female figures, such as Wonder Woman and Hawkgirl. $699, Mattel; www.mattel.com or 800/524-8697.

4. Major Powers: Great for parents who might want something less violent than, say, a gun-toting soldier. Each Powers figure comes with accessories to fight "world problems" rather than evil adversaries. $6.99, Hasbro; www.hasbro.com/majorpowers or 888/836-7025.