Im actually gonna disagree about getting the 250cc ninja...i know a lot of guys that get 250's as their first bike, and within a few months they sell them and upgrade to something a little bigger. I feel that rider control and ability is more important than engine size- a moron on a 250 can still go down, whereas a smart rider that knows his abilities and what he should/should not do, should be fine riding a 600cc. But i think a newb with a liter bike is not a good combo
that being said- i just picked up my first bike 3 days ago...a 94 yamaha fzr 600. ~80 hp or so...I pay 640/year for liablity only, im 20 with one speeding ticket...I hear when you turn 21 your insurance rates drop A LOT
I bought an older bike because ive never ridden before, and it will be easier to replace fairings if i lay it down. Ive been riding pretty much non-stop the last couple of days, and i feel as if im getting the hang of it...
I agree with everyone else who says get gear before you ride...I dont get on my bike without a helmet on, and my jacket is going to be here soon enough...boots and pants will be purchased as soon as my budget allows it.
Take the MSF course asap, it offers 10% off your insurance rates and will help you to be a safer rider
Good luck with your choice, and be safe
edit--- to the guy above me- actually my insurance company rates 600cc and up in the heavy class being more insurance. But you do understand that most of the "600cc" bikes out there are actually 599 or 598cc, so when your insurance agent asks about engine says tell him 599cc