[Jeff in Kentucky]

The Kawasaki KLR 650 costs less than those other bikes he mentioned, and is better for gravel and dirt roads.

The Suzuki Bandit 1250 costs more and has more power, and is best on pavement and is not for gravel or dirt.

The Suzuki DL650 is in the middle for price, is best on pavement but has some ability on gravel and dirt, and has looks that many do not like.

A lot of people like the Suzuki SV650 or Kawasaki 650R/Versys that are more for pavement and less for dirt.

A beginner is probably best off buying a 250cc or 500cc Kawasaki Ninja, or a scooter to save more money, and moving up to more power and more weight after at least a few thousand miles of street experience.