Ninja 650 good first bike?

Hey all. I'm new to the motorcycle world, but have been doing my research. I've learned that it's not a good idea for a beginner rider to buy a big 1000cc machine as his first bike.

One bike that interests me is the Ninja 650r... would this be a good first bike, or is it too much? I do have some experience on 2 wheels as I've been riding a 150cc scooter for a while now, but I'd imagine the scooter is a MUCH different experience than the motorcycle.

Another bike I'm considering is the Suzuki SV650. I believe it's comparable to the Ninja 650, but I'm wondering if anyone has experience with either bike, and believe that one is superior to the other.

Thanks for your help.

I just posted the same question in the beginner forum. I hope you get lots of answers and I'll be watching your thread, you may want to watch mine as well.

I'd say yes. The 650r can work fine as a bike for you. The 650 has good manners for a new rider. It's not as twitchy as an inline 4 and believe me, it is very forgiving on the street. The riding position is comfortable for commuting as well as throwing it through the curves. It may very well be a bike you can (learn) on as well as ride for several years and be quite happy. It handles very well and has good acceleration. There are tons of aftermarket acces. available for it, so you can customize it too your personal taste. I love mine. Enjoy whichever one you decide to get. :)

I just bought my 07 650r two weeks ago and love it. Fuel injected, nimble handling and quick acceleration. Get the 650r, it looks better than the Suzuki and if I recall correctly (which I probably dont) the Suzuki isn't fuel injected. May be worth looking at? Either way, I love my 650 and its my first bike ever. Took my MSF, then bought it two weeks later. Get one!

No, it's not a good first bike... it's a GREAT first bike. Have an '07 and love it. Don't expect to race the Gixer 1ks or other SuperSports but expect to have a really nice ride on a good looking/performing bike with good gas mileage (42-50).

^ Yep, agree absolutely. I love my '07 Ninja 650 :D

The 650 is a great first bike, and it happens to be my first bike. I finished a 5300 mi road trip on it this fall. Fast enough to keep you entertained, practical enough to use everyday. Enjoy!

You, sir, have impeccable taste! And I see you got it in the fastest color

I ended up getting an '09 Ducati Monster 696.

Here's a link w/ some pics....
http://www.motorcycleforum.com/showthread.php?t=87584

I've got about 250 miles on it and LOVE it! :)