I think that a lot of people who ought to know better discuss bikes in terms of ccs. WHat is misleading is that a 250 cc machine can run circles around an 800cc bike if they are designed for different purposes.

Another thing that I believe is that bikes are not like cars. You don't go out and buy your dream bike for a couple of reasons. THe first is that ou are going to drop it once or twice and it is going to be knowcked over by cars in parking lots anotehr couple of times until you learn the tricks of avoiding this. Another reason is that ou can't really tell what you want until you ride for a while. I suggest putting 5-1000 miles on a small bike, 250-500ccs until you have developed the reflexes, commitment and knowledge that will keep ou upright and your bike shiny.

Most accidents take place in the first few thousand miles. Peoplel earn the mechanics of ridings and are seduced by the sensual excitement of riding. THey think that they have learned ot ride since they have gotten gear shifting, lane changing, cornering, etc down. It is an illusion that costs a lot of money in wrecked bikes and a great deal of pain. A smaller bike helps to control those early urges and ou end up a safer rider on a better looking bike that suits you.

As far as size goes, again, once you have learned to ride and balance, a small person can handle a heavy bike at a stop because she has developed the balance skills on a smaller bike.

Those are my thoughts on the matter. Hope they're helpful. I guess there is one more thing. There are an awful lot of people who have been riding for a year or two who are happy to offer advice. Look for people who have survived longer than that. Their advice has been better tempered and anealed.

Sourdough