To the OP, get a 250cc bike. That is what everyone told me when I was first starting out and I am glad I did. You can get in trouble on a 250cc when your a new rider, starting out on a 600cc when you've never rode is just asking for trouble.
Besides 250's have improved a lot lately. No longer do they look like scooters. This was my 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250r that I just sold recently. Not getting another bike, instead using that money on a nicer car.
