deepakd wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:07:...though I am not really a newbie rider....
few options I am considering:
Rebel 250
Savage 650
Virago 250
I'm also not a new rider, having started on a Honda 50 in 1964. Had a DT175 from 1974 thru 1987 when I stopped riding. When I restarted two years ago I was, like you, looking at the 250's. I like the light weight, and for city use with an occasional jump on the freeway a 250 is sufficient. A 400 would be better, but try to find a Suzuki 400 Tempter outside of Japan.
Anyhow, looked at and sat on the:
Honda 250 Rebel -- the side covers poke my thighs when stopped.
Yamaha 250 Virago -- pretty. Very tempting.
Suzuki GZ250 Marauder -- the little thumper, cheaper than the V-twin Yamaha, has the fat front tire. Was all set to buy one when....
I noticed the specs on the Savage. Physically the same dimensions as the 250's, the torque of the 650, only 50 pounds heavier. Found one and sat on it and it was
SO much more fitted to me than any of the 250s. At that point it was simply a matter of finding one for sale at a place and price I was willing to meet.
Before I sat on one I the Rebel was top of my list. After I sat on one it was scratched. Comfort is paramount. If you are not comfortable on the bike you cannot meld with it and become one.
If you can take the folded leg position, the Ninja 250 is supposed to be a great little bike -- with enough HP to easily handle highway speed. (a few Ninja 250's have been certified SS1000.)