yeah part of the problem is that If I got a 250 I would want the post-2007 ninja, and those are pretty hard to find right now as I’ve discovered the past few weeks (the one I sat on was a 2001 I think), not to mention most dealers/sellers want more than what an older used gs500f would cost. I don’t know though, I’m gonna take MSF and see how it goes, I’m no macho man, if I really think I’d be better off on a 250 then I wont hesitate to get one. I didn’t really consider any 650’s, I’ve heard people say they’re alright for beginners and others have said they’re definitely NOT beginner bikes. I tend to believe those who say it’s all about your comfort level, I guess we’ll see when I’m able to do more than just sit and drool on them! Thanks everyone.