Don't get the race versions if you haven't ridden motorcycles - if you have then ignore the following advice: 
 
I'd suggest something like the Katana 600/750 (Suzuki), Ninja 500, GS or SV models. 
 
Weight doesn't really matter as much as people put a premium on..Just because you weight 245 doesn't mean you need a 600+ bike..what's going to matter more is your sitting height, but you should be fine on any bike.. 
 
the starting power of somethin like a gsx-600 can you get you in trouble very easily..you could be making a simple turn and accidnetly give it to much power, now oyu're on your butt in the middle of traffic.. 
 
Go through the MSF course first, and ask a shit ton of questions from your instructor - based on your skills and how they asses them they'll be able to point you in a really good direction.. 
 
ALSO: 
 
Don't be cheap when you buy a gear, ie helmet, jacket/pants..especially the helmet..don't be afraid to drop a ocuple hundred on a really nice helmet, it could save your life some day. 
 
the leather's don't matter quite as much, but you want to be comfortable. 
 
2nd Edit: 
 
also, it's not that a 250r is going to be a tricycle..it's just you will outgrow it in probably 6 months because it lacks the power that the higher cc bikes have..with something like a katana 600 you can start out fine, but progress far enough until you know  you're ready for somethin like a gixxer/cbr 
                
                
                
                
                
                                                  
                                
                                Last edited by skoob : 12-22-2008 at 04:22 PM.
                                
                                
                        
                
                
        
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