I started on a Rebel and now ride an SV650. While some people start off on the SV, I really think it's a bad idea. Better to build some skills on a more tame bike first, something more forgiving of mistakes.vespertillio wrote:However the rep tried to get me into a Suzuki SV650 which frankly scared the "crumb" out of me lol. He said I would grow out of the 250 too quickly.
You might outgrow a 250 quickly. Might not. It'll do everything you need it to do, including freeway speeds. My 6'2" son was able to ride my Rebel; he looked funny but he had no problems with it. They guy who bought it from me was about 5'10" and has been riding for at least 30 years--he prefers the small bikes.
I did get to where I wanted more power after 6-8 months, but I kept riding it for a total of about 15 months. You might want more power, but it's rare that you'll *need* more power...you probably wouldn't regret getting a 250, though within a year you might be looking to trade up but that's all right. Those little bikes hold their resale value nicely.
The Spouse Thingy started with a Honda VLX 600. It was a fine starter bike and he's still not looking for anything more. It's a but buzzy but he doesn't mind, at least not until his butt goes numb.
If you like cruisers, just keep them under 800 cc and a weight you feel comfortable handling. If you like sport bikes, look to the Ninja 250 or even the 500. But listen to your gut--it was right in telling you to not get the SV. It's a wickedly fun bike, but if I'd started on it, I'd probably be dead now.