Check out the youtube vid from a well respected female vlogger. She rides a GSX/R 600 but test rode the Ninja 250R on film. It's better to see and hear it from an actual rider while on the bike.
It's a great bike for someone who has never rode before because they have no other experience or bike to reference. If a corolla was your first, you'd think it was great until you drove the camry.
IMO
Everybody says that 600CCs is suicide for a beginner rider. That is simply not true. They make 600CC bikes that are suitable for beginners. In fact they make more entry level 600 bikes than they do 600CC race bikes. In no way does a 600CC bike remotely compare to a formula 1 race car. That is an extremist coment you should disregard.
I don't hate the Ninja 250R but it isn't the absolute universal best choice for a first bike the way others would suggest.
The newer Suzuki GS500F is a nice bike. I usually recommend this bike to the people who have been scared about getting a 600. It's got the power to scoot you around town and push you along the highway if you so choose. Doesn't look too bad either.
IMHO, the Yamaha FZ6R is the universal entry-level sport bike. Notice I left out "absolute". I have to speak nice since I hurt the scooter guys feelings talking down the 250R.
Anyway there are a few other older model 600CC bikes that aren't race tuned and therefore considered entry-level. 600CC bikes are not even closely comparable to formula 1 race cars. That is a very extremist type comment.
1. Suzuki GSX600 (katana)
2. Kawasaki ZZR600
3. Yamaha YZF600
Take the MSF course and save some money for gear. Helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots, at a minimum.
If you have the money and time to waste, get the 250R, then when your skills develop and outgrow it, sell it (hoping you can get back what you paid for it), then purchase one of the other bikes I've mentioned.
