UmarS2K

You think ppl look fruity driving the Miata, imagine putting around on a little 250R - that thing is tiny!

But it's a blast! Don't knock it till you try it. Nothing like passing crotch rockets in some good twisties. [/QUOTE]
Oh, no, I really want the 250R. I don't care what anyone says about the bike. It looks badass. I doubt the majority of the public will even know (or care) it's just got a 249cc engine in it.

UmarS2K

Also, the bike isn't small at all. It seemed perfect for me when I sat on it.

turkishness

While the 250s are nice, I'd opt for an older model. If this is your first bike, you shouldn't care about scraping some fairings...

FluKy15

I cant wait until I can buy my first bike. Im going to go the same route at you, Ninja 250r first. Then Ill be getting the Yamaha R6, when Im ready. That bike looks soooo sick and aggressive!

dsms2k

for commuting id opt out of a 250 and look for a 500. it rides the same really with just alittle more power (not dramatic)

its much better for highway speeds.

i own both a gsxr 600 and a gs500.

the 500 is a fun bike and has a nice seating position. its still plenty fast though.

make sure and gear up.

Hot.Damn

The Kawi ER6N would be a good starter bike. Decent power and mileage, also has a good aftermarket for parts and what not. I have the full fairing version(650r) and I get 50-55 mpg all the time.

GinoGT

I'd say immediately disregard advice that includes the old "you'll get bored of or outgrow a 250." Any asshole can crank a throttle open, that doesn't mean they know a damn thing about riding. 250's are much more conducive to learning than bigger bikes.

As far as fuel milage goes, a 250 should get you easily above 50mpg, I was getting 45-50mpg on my 650R this summer.

UmarS2K

I spoke to a Kawasaki salesman and he said the 250R should easily get 60+ mpg.
I don't drive on the highway much any more, so I guess the fact that the 250R stays in high rpm range in order to stick with traffic won't bother me. Even if I were to ride on the highway, I'd be travelling speed limit.
Thanks for all the advice, fellas. I appreciate it.

rwheelz

FYI- we just picked up an end of season special for my wife. 2009 Ninja 250 with 930 miles on it, showroom mint condition, for $2076 OTD (no sales tax here). Don't buy into the hype and inflated pricing you often see on the newer Ninja 250's- you can get one for cheap. People will try to convince you they are worth a small fortune because of the new body style, when in reality they just overpaid at the dealership when they bought it new and want to recoup some of their loss.

The bike is a blast to ride. I have an SV650 and a ZX9R and still take the 250 out regularly.

UmarS2K

I like any of the Ninjas from '06+. The older ones look out-of-date to me. No offense to anyone who owns an older Ninja.
Congrats on purchasing a beautiful bike, rwheelz. I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Idk when I'll be actually making the purchase, but once I do, I'll let you guys all know.