Well, it might not be as expensive as you think!
I’m 5’4. 120 lbs, and my first bike was a GS500F. I bought it fopr the KILLER deal of $500.00! Jacket AND helmet inc! (Corse, I bought a new helmet right away!)
I just looked for one 2 weeks BEFORE Christmas…was armed with cash… and got if for FAR less then asking price. Its amazing what desperate people do to get cash just BEFORE CHRISTMAS if they have a family. Thats always been when I look to BUY….
I’m now 5 years in, and STILL ride a GS500F….
Corse, being your first bike, Id HIGHLY recommend stripping it naked, adding bucket, ears and front signals and mirrors, and saving your lovely plastic fairings for your second or third season…. because, as SOON as you hit the smallest bit of dirt or gravel- usually in a parking lot, you’ll tip it. its just SO easy to do…. even my husband started on my old bike, and he’s 6′ 190, and HE dropped it a few times- darn parking lot behind our place! *lol*
So, think about starting on a used one, few years old, then work your way to your dream bike… but you might be surprised. I never thought I’d fall in love with such a small bike… but when its in your comfort zone… why change?
Oh, also, if buying a used bike, especially a sport- spend the $10 or so, and run a check on it FIRST! If its been laid down, and stamped as non- repairable, even if it LOOKS ok, you’ve just wasted alot of money to get it to a point where it can now be plated…. Just a word of caution! But if its stamped Salvage, then you might have a chance. Just be really careful. And if you dont know enough to know what your looking at about the stamps… buy a clear title. But NEVER take anyone’s word for it… CHECK first!
Good luck!