RacingRice, I don't mean to step on your toes, but I really think the SV650 is a great starter bike. Everyone that I know that has started on one has loved it and recomends it to all their friends. I have ridden them and think the same. I agree that a 250 and 500cc Ninja are great starter bikes as well, but people get bored with them quickly. They are very agile, very forgiving, and confidence inspiring, but they have no go to them when you start to progress. IMHO it takes a little longer to out grow an SV and with limited resources, I think that is a better choice. I totally agree about the MSF. I have taken the beginner, and 4 advanced classes, as well as many track days and schools. The MSF is by far the most informative for street riding, and I always end up learning something new there. As far as where to get used bikes, cycle traders,
www.cycletraderonline.com , ask around for a reliable dealer. If you ask a motorcyclist in your area, they should be able to give you good advice on where to go. I know here in SoCal it is a very close knit community where everyone knows everyone and someone can at least point you in the right direction. The Super Sports are definatly not fun to learn on. I don't remember who said it but they said a 600cc CBR couldn't have too much power, but think about this. An 88 CBR 600 F1 Hurricane (not dissin. this was my first bike and I loved it.) has roughly 75 RWHP, if I am not mistaken that is pretty close to a 95 DX Civic, but the Hurricane weighs roughly 500 pounds. Anyway, long story a little less long, Super Sport = bad first bike, lesser = better. Prefirably with no fairings, and definatly MSF course.