Thanks a lot for the info. Your “early morning ramble” proved to be very useful. I’ve been giving it some thought and Im so much now more so leaning toward the 250R. The 2008 is just plain sexy. Im about 5’11, 165lbs and it feels a bit smaller but I’d rather that than it being to big, especially for my 1st bike. Im not to happy about the buzzy sound and the fact that it will take a lot to start up because I hear its coldblooded rather than fuel injected. I am also unsure in how to break in a new bike. Someone told me that I wouldnt be able to go over 30mph and couldnt rev past 4000rpm. Thats very discouraging for my fun factor if thats true. Still yet, Im thinking it will still prove to be a better investment. Im planning on at least trying it out for a season and if my skill permits me, maybe selling it and upgrading to the SV650. My ultimate goal is to be able to ride at Gixxer 600/750. I love the look of those bikes. Thanks for your response, you probably just saved my life. Now all I have to do is convince my ego and we’re good to go.