Take your dad to the Kawasaki dealer and have HIM sit on the Ninja 250 (I really think it's the "Ninja" that is scaring him). I'm 6'0 and have now put a little more than 250 miles on mine. A friend who rides a Harley said, "Crotchrocket." and I said, "Sit on it." <chuckle> He did and made the off-handed comment, "Nice seat." He was truly surprised by the riding position. After your dad sits on the 250, have him try the 500 and 600; each of which "lay you down" further and further. I am LUVIN mine. Oh. Something else my HD buddy said (and we've all heard it), "It doesn't matter WHAT you ride, just so long as you're ridin'!" Have fun.

 

"It doesn't matter WHAT you ride, just so long as you're ridin'!" Have fun. " Such a wise saying too.

Feeling comfy with a new ride is different with all rides. New rider, either the EX 250 or the 500. Both are pretty comfy for a longer ride and getting started with. I am thinking of your size in saying a 500 may meet more of everything in the EX class though. Plus some room to grow. Just use your head. Good luck.

 

i would have to agree with dragone, with your height you will find the 500r better to suit your needs, especially if you plan to ride it all the time, and not just use it as a tool to learn, if that the case then the 250 will suit you fine, the reason i say that is that the 500r is very rider friendly, you will udjust to the 500 just as fast as the 250, and if you can't afford to get another bike soon, at least you will not get bored or have a lack of get up and go with the higher cc's. as for the comfort, i rode cruisers for 23 years beforeswitching to the crotch rocket, and the comfort level did change a little, but that because i was already used to riding in a laid back position, but the adjustment was minor and now i'm loving it.