[jonathan180iq]

I'm a 250cc advocate and my experience is mostly with 250cc bikes. However, I have ridden a Ninja 650 and an older Suzuki 600s.

I look at motorcycles as simple transportation; nothing more. nothing less. I don't ride this bike as a fashion accesory. I ride it because it is economical and faster than my bicycle. Most people on here average an honest 55-70MPG and with only 1 cylinder, there is less to go wrong. Maintenance is pretty simple and straightforward, assuming that you have the service manual.

If you are all about the looks and/or upgrades, there isn't much in the aftermarket for this bike.

Performance is sufficient for everything short of drag racing and out-running crime fighters.
Long hills and uphill switch backs can really slow it down.

That being said, the bike can be fast.

The most important thing to remember, if speed if what you want, is that small bikes require the rider to work a little harder at carrying momentum. On a large bike, any simpleton can flip the throttle and release oodles of horsepower and power through any turn and onto a straight. On a small bike, it takes a little finesse to keep the bike in the optimal gearing and in the powerband to achieve the desired results.

If you are a huge guy (6'5" & 250) this probably isn't the bike for you.

One last thing, historically speaking, this bike probably equates to some of the WWII era cycles, as far as performance and comfort goes. However, it's technology and design is well beyond that. It's very reliable, effecient and friendly.

Enjoy,
Jonathan