first post

I have scanned all 19 pages and read a lot of posts, but wanted to give specific info. I have 250 miles logged on a 1985 Rebel 250 over the last three weeks and that's all my experience. I'm looking at getting a street bike. I'm turning 30 in a couple of weeks and I'm 5' 8" weighing in at 170. What should I get? I been looking at a brand new 2001 Ninja 500, but it doesn't rate as high in looks as The 600. I feel really comfortable on the 250 but I'm not sure how touchy the throttle is on the 600's. I've read I can do it and please don't do it. How much do you guys or girls think I should try to get the Ninja for, if I went that route? The dealer is asking the same as a 2004 new. How much out the door would be a good deal? Any suggestions on the 600's? Thanks

I'd say log plenty more miles on that Rebel. And THEN get a 600 of your choice, if you're not confident to step into a race rep 600s, then go with the SV650S or YZR600R. Because, by then I wouldn't bother with 250/500, unless you happen to like how it fits you. If however, your 250 is in a critical need of medical attention or suffers at highways, then going with Ninja 250/500 would be the alternative.

Thanks Z Fanatic, I see you helping a lot of people. Would those two bikes be at the same level of skill needed. What is the bike in that you have pictured?

No prob. It would probably take the same skill to learn and gain experience on 250/500 as you would on that Rebel. But the 500R makes a great amateur racing, light-class track bike.

The bike below is MV Agusta F4 SPR. Made with carbon-fiber body panels. It was recently featured in "I, Robot" movie.

www.mvagusta.com