The sv650 is a great bike. I have a buddy with one and he loves it. I realize the temptation of getting a really nice bike for your first but keep in mind that the sv650 can get over 120mph without breaking a sweat.If it's your first ever bike, I'd really recommend something like a USED 250 ninja (if you're going the sport bike route) or a Honda Rebel (if you're leaning toward a cruiser). These are smaller, lighter and less expensive. You can get a used one pretty cheap and ride it for a season (even just a few months) to get some experience before you step up to a bigger bike.You have the advantage of learning on something that won't get away from you as easily and if you drop it (it happens) you won't be heartbroken because you dented the tank on your new bike.