I'm a college student who is planning on getting a Ninjaj 250, but I've noticed that even though ninja owners swear by the 250 and how great it is, almost every single person who owns a 250 wants a 600. Am I better off with a 600 in the first place? Please keep in mind that it will be my first bike, but I'm not the kind of guy who wants to race everyone on the interstate, but the more power the better, I would imagine when you need it.I like the idea of the 600 having more weight, because I will be on the interstate every week, and getting blown off the road terrifies me.I guess I've seen too many scarey movies or something. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

I've yet to be blown off of an interstate. Honestly, OD's '05 Kawi Ninja ZX-6R(636)only outweighs my 250 by not even 50 lbs. Depends on the model and year.

 

The 250 is usually considered 2 things, 1. a beginner bike or 2. a toy. People who are looking for a beginner bike will get the 250 to work up their skills before moving on to a bigger bike. People looking for a toy will usually step down from a bigger bike because the 250 is much more fun to ride. If you think you want to move up quickly you can get a 500,it hasmore power if you think you are going to get bored with the 250. But there is really no problems with any of the bikes, only preference.

 

ive had my 250 since december and im already looking to move up. everybody told me that id get tired of it really quickly but i always thought i had no reason to go fast and that id be perfectly happy with it...i was tired of it within 2 weeks and was taking it up to triple digits (which it will barely go to) within the first couple of days of getting it. i also took it out on the interstate for the first time yesterday with 20 mph crosswinds and it wa really difficult keeping it in a straight line. Ive sat on a zzr before and felt a whole lot more comfortable and more steady on it than the 250 so id suggest starting out with a 600. after all they are still great starter bikes (depends on the kind you get) and you wont get tired of it as quickly!

 

I like proms quote. Sounds like you are working up and have an idea but yet are conservative. The 250 of course will give you better gas mileage. But the 500 is not far off. The 6r or 6rr will bring more acceleration and handle better stock (depending on setup) in my opinion. Insurance needs to be calibrated into the request as well. It boils down to what you can ride and what you prefer.

 

Well, as a student, I pay my own tuition (half of it out of pocket). I will still keep my car, so I am will paying insurance on both vehicles. Is there a huge difference between the costs of a used 600 and a used 250? I noticed that Kawasaki sells 500s. Anyone know if they are good bikes?

 

For the most part trev, they are all good rides and you need to choose or find one that will fit your experience or expectations. Look for the best deal for your needs. As far as the kawi's being good rides? I have had good luck with them (88 750, 90 zx7, 0610r) so far.

 

I find it scary riding my 250 on interstate... wind and trucks, etc. make my body tense up real bad to keep me on the road. on the plus side a 250 is great on the wallet.

so my suggestion is to think about how and what you'll be riding it for. if you just going to have a run-around-town bike (like me) that is a cheap way to get places quick, a 250 is perfect. light, quick accel and lots of fun to wind up over and over! not to mention great gas mileage. then again any bike has better mileage than any car.

if you are planning on long commutes in fast traffic and long rides(more then 50 miles) then I would suggest something bigger and heavier.

 

The 250R is definitely a commuter bike, so for a college kid wanting to get around town cheaply and easily, a 250 is hard to beat. It is highway worthy, but it isn't made for the highway at all! Before you make your decision, check with several insurance companies on how much different sized bikes will cost to insure. DON'T just check with your current car insurance provider! Motorcycle insurance WILL vary greatly among different providers.

 

I love my 250..I ride it everywhere!! I've been over 1500 miles on the interstate on mine...actually probably more than that. I do love OD's bike tho...yummy. (ZX-6)