first motorcycle, help me pick one Options

[Hanyo]

I know, i know; the very commonly asked "first bike question" but i need help finding a first bike.

I know about the 250/500 ninjas and the gs500f from Suzuki are all great beginners bikes. I'm really leaning towards a 2008+ 250 ninja because I like how short and light they feel.

But I have a few opinons from my other friends what to get. My friend tells me to get a older 600cc bike such as a 98 katana; My other friend is teling me to get a gs500f to start off with because i will get tired of the 250 real quickly.

My main use of this bike is to commute and I would eventually want to go on the highway with it.

Does anyone have a suggestion on a bike that is less then $3000 and is a good beginner bike (600cc)?

[Hanyo]

So I finally got my bike.

Its as 2003 636 ninja. Here are some pictures for your enjoyment. I would like to thank everyone for there help and info.






Here are my observations and experience with motorcycles so far.

1)First thing you would ever notice on a bike is its extremely fast. Like mind blowing fast. Think of the fastest car you have ever rode in x 10 because you have to hold onto dear life. The only sensation i can relate to is you have a evil monkey on your back trying to rip you off your bike when you have the throttle pinned open.

2) its more expensive then you realize it. After buying gear and insurance and tax i was way over budget.

3) Sports bike hurt so much to ride. Your always in a crunched-up position, your right hand is always holding the same posture to maintain your speed. After an hour long ride you will be hurting. If you dont have tank grips expect the gas tank to hit you in the jewels.

4) motorcycle protection gear sucks, its gets so hot and sweaty. I would love to ride a motorcycle in just t-shirt and shorts but safety comes first.

5) passing the motorcycle test on a sports bike is not humanly possible.

6) It cost a whole lot more to maintain a sports bike then a car. Tires last only 2ooo miles and your fuel economy is not that great. (I only get 5 mpg better then the celica.) Parts cost a lot to replace because you most likely will need to buy them at the dealership. Motorcycle oil changes can cost around 50 dollars just in parts alone.

7) You will notice how bad everyone else drives and you have to be prepared for some asshole to swerve in front of you.

8) you will want more speed and regret not getting a 1000cc bike. maybe hayabusa muahaha

9) your home page will be reset to the weather channel, so you can decide if your can ride today.

10) did i mention bikes are ****en fast?