First bike, advice sought

[Dragonhawk]

Sounds like you're on a very sensible course.

As you've begun to learn, a motorcycle fits everyone like a pair of jeans. In other words, overall height is not really relevant - what matters is inseam. THAT is what determines how comfortable you are when you sit on it. So, one "small" bike may fit you far better than another. For example, I love supermoto bikes, but I'm just not tall enough for them. My feet won't even touch the ground!

Leaning towards a Nighthawk is cool. Those are nice beginner bikes.

[flynrider]

I just don't care too much for the look of sports bikes, so I think I'll shy away from a Ninja.

Fair enough. I myself am not a fan of plastic covered bikes. I'm actually considering buying a little Ninja anyway as an "around town" bike. I'm a big fan of its performance and non-sportbike riding position (I've ridden a friend's '05 model). If they made one without plastic, I probably would have bought one years ago. Are you listening Kawasaki??