Thanks for the link, that is a good article, very useful to read. 80 mph is fine for me, as you mentioned, my focus will be on learning. It sounds like there is no particular brand which has a “superior” advantage, that all of them will be fine as long as I feel comfortable on them? This is good to hear. I have to admit, the Ninja reviews are pretty outstanding, so I will have to visit the dealer who has them nearby. But I am happy to read you say that it’s all about my preference. Initially, I have been thinking along the lines of a cruiser type rather than the sport configuration, because I didn’t want to be hunched over as I ride but I have been looking at the videos online and it doesn’t seem that the Ninja forces you lean over as much. People really seem to like it, so I will have to try it out.
I did sit on the Suzuki S40 and although it is easy to sit on it is a 650, which I am thinking will be too powerful for a first bike–but it is very nice. Maybe I am being a wuss about that. If I were experienced I would love a Suzuki Boulevard M50 or the Moto Guzzi Nevada 750. Haven’t looked at the Buell Blast yet in person, I will want to do this it sounds like a very nice bike.
I am still thinking about the Rebel as a first bike for after I get through the course–I like the look of that one (and the Yamaha too). Thanks for your input.