I would also recommend the Suzuki S40 (Savage). i just got my learners in March and purchased a 2001 Savage as my first bike. Weight is just a bit more than a Rebel, a little longer wheelbase; with the 650 single, though, it pumps out more torque and a little more horsepower. Lean chopper style that I was looking for. Compared to the V-Star 650, it’s has a greater power/weight ratio. I looked at many 250s, especially the Virago (sweet little bike), but after seeing what 250s could & couldn’t do at the BRC, I opted for something with more giddy-up. My town has some obscenely large multi-lane intersections; I wanted to be able to get going without having a cage on my rear the whole time. Some people almost run over me when I’m in my Jeep!