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So, after literally a few years of working towards getting a bike, I think I have settled on the 2008 Ninja 250. I have read nothing but great things about it, but haven't seen it brought up here.

Anyone have any thoughts?

The ironic thing is that I was totally against getting a sport bike until I stumbled upon the new 08. I wouldn't even go to the sport bike side of the dealers. Now I can't think of getting anything but that bike. Standard position, top speed 110 (why in heck would you need to go faster than 80 anyway?), 3900 OTD... It just seems you cant go wrong with it.

stevep wrote:So, after literally a few years of working towards getting a bike, I think I have settled on the 2008 Ninja 250. I have read nothing but great things about it, but haven't seen it brought up here.

Anyone have any thoughts?

The ironic thing is that I was totally against getting a sport bike until I stumbled upon the new 08. I wouldn't even go to the sport bike side of the dealers. Now I can't think of getting anything but that bike. Standard position, top speed 110 (why in heck would you need to go faster than 80 anyway?), 3900 OTD... It just seems you cant go wrong with it.

It's a great starter bike, especially since it's not hideous anymore

Very nice for a 250. If I were looking for a first bike it would be near the top of the list.

It's a great starter but I have seen some recall notices. Someone posted them here the other day.

The recalls were for nothing serious, and the bikes on the dealers floors now should be fine. If I had the extra money and a real garge, I'd probably have one as a squirt around town bike.

Hey Steve. If you aren't dead set on the new look of the 2008, check out a 2007. I just bought a pristine 2007 with only 1700 miles that was very well maintained (500mile service, new plugs, filter, oil @ 1000) for only 2400. Thats under $1k off the MSRP with no fees (except DMV plating fees, like 150 for me). And the 2007 was quite attractive methinks. But then, if you really like the new look of the '08, then 1000 bucks isnt much. Goodluck

Ive been thinking lately (only today really) about that. And the thing is, the 2007 looks ok, not great, a little dated. Im not looking to buy a bike and then sell in 2-6 months really. If I like the way the Ninja rides and it grows as I grow, then I don't have a problem sticking with it. But I know I'll never love the way a <2007 looks. But how can you "dog" about a $2000 quality bike?

Hey dude.....I agree 100% that the Ninja 250 is a great bike. It looks awesome. Most starter bikes, I'm sorry to say, look like granny bikes. They may be nice for beginners, but ack! I love the fact that it looks like the more expensive, and powerful Ninjas, but is only 250cc and is less than $4000. In my opinion you can't go wrong. I want to start learnin to ride and am looking for a bike to learn on and am about 99% sure it will be a Ninja 250R.

stevep wrote:Ive been thinking lately (only today really) about that. And the thing is, the 2007 looks ok, not great, a little dated. Im not looking to buy a bike and then sell in 2-6 months really. If I like the way the Ninja rides and it grows as I grow, then I don't have a problem sticking with it. But I know I'll never love the way a <2007 looks. But how can you "dog" about a $2000 quality bike?

I started on a Ninja 250 and I'm trying to sell it right now and I've had no problems getting offers and people to look at it. I only listed it at the start of the month.

Yea....small "trainer" bike are in high demand. You usually can sell them quickly at or just below what you paid for it.