[MATCHBX]

I'm by no means a seasoned rider, but I pay exclusive attention to what's going on around me. Even with that, a lady pushed me off the road and I laid my bike down (softly). It happens in a split second. And in CA, there are many more idiotic drivers out there and more on the move out there.

I will have to say I really like the choice I made in a bike. I got a 2001 Kawasaki ZX6R Ninja (600cc). I got mine REALLY reasonable because of the miles that are on it. But they can be had in your price range easily. Very light and agile. Torquey as hell. I've scared myself in the upper revs. 2003 and up had Fuel Injection while the 2002 and down had quad carbs. Very easy to take care of and very easy on gas in stock form (50+mpg).

Stay below 750cc's and you should be OK for a starter bike. Get your road miles under you and then trade up in a year or two. I'll probably go up to a 750 or slightly higher in the next year or two.