You said
I understand that the normal logic is never buy a new bike for your first ride. I will probably drop it, and that will be much more depressing with a new bike. However, it seems that the upgrades to the 2008 model might be worth the extra 1k I would spend vs a used in this area, even given the danger of dropping.
and I would have to say that the 1k extra is DEFINITELY worth it. The new 08 is a much more solid bike than the older ninja, so much so that I think it really is worth the extra money. The bike has gobs more midrange, feels a lot more solid, is very roomy, and brakes on a dime. The older ninja by contrast feels ‘rickity’, and not very stable, although you wouldn’t be able to tell unless you have ridden both the old and the new. That being said, the old ninja is still good, but I really think that all the improvements made to the new ninja justify the price. Plus if you choose to sell it to get a bigger bike, I bet you will be able to get most of your money back.
Ben
~Best Beginner Motorcycles Admin