I own a GSX650F.
The GSX650F is the well established European model Suzuki Bandit with a full fairing; new (in the USA anyway) for the 2008 model year. It’s essentially a tricked-out, sporty, standard, the total of which is more than the sum of its parts. It would also make an ideal low-cost sport tourer (Hard luggage and racks are available for it from Givi, etc. – see http://www.twistedthrottle.com).
While I wouldn’t recommend any 650 twin or I-4 as a beginner bike (especially a fully faired one), I believe that the GSX650F is as user friendly as any other 650. With its friendly gear ratios, it can be ridden mildly if you so choose. If you twist the throttle, then the bike will immediately start moving faster in a very linear way, almost like a rheostat, or turning a faucet more on or more off; there are no “oh sh*t” moments as you hit a particular rev range and it suddenly pulls your arms out of their sockets like some real sport bikes. It won’t wheelie without you trying to either (which suits me just fine).
The “weight issue” is a complete non-issue on this bike as it doesn’t feel heavy at all due to the low center of gravity (and yes, the weight is due to the traditional steel, double-cradle frame). In real-life motorcycling, the weight is actually an advantage and it *does* truly increase the stability and wind resistance of the bike (a big deal on my freeway and bridge commute). The roadholding on this bike is nothing short of amazing; it just feels so safe and secure at any speed. It’s no slouch either and you’ll be at 100 m.p.h. without realizing it (top speed reportedly 130-138 m.p.h.). The engine doesn’t even notice when you have a passenger on the back; very torquey for an I-4. SV650 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, GSX650F 0-60 in 3.8 seconds.
No, your Ricky Racers won’t appreciate this bike, as going fast on this bike, doesn’t feel like you’re going fast, if feels like safe, comfortable and secure.
Read the press reviews (all glowing) and take what the internet forum “experts” say with a handfull of salt. Most of ’em have never even seen a GSX650F in the flesh let alone ridden one.