If you wanted a push toward the S40, you came to the right place. The vast majority of us love our Savage/S40's!
I rode a V-star 250 in my MSP course, and there was a beautiful black-cherry one at the dealership. I said I'd have that bike some day!! Thankfully, I found the S40 and bought it instead. I'm still considering buying bigger some day, so I know that I would have been bored on the 250 in no time!
So here are the high points for me (5'2, 115# female):
-First, the price was right and the bike was available when I wanted it.
-It looks awesome. Let's face it, for a female, if she doesn't like the looks of the bike, she's not gonna like the bike. There are some easy modifications and add-ons (although yes, aftermarket parts specific for this bike are limited, but many will crossover. They just don't always say so)
-Light, thin, good weight distrubution, easy to handle with my small frame.
-Hubby rides a big, wide, powerful C90, so I love that I can keep up with him. I don't think a 250 would have done it. We mostly ride under 60 mph, but I never feel like I'm holding him back because of my bike. (maybe my insecurities, being a new rider, but never because the bike won't do it)
-I think one of my favorite things is how easy it pulls out. I can start so smoothly, I barely give any throttle when on level ground. And I can pull out quick, if necessary. Can jump hubby off the line at a stop light every time! I bet I haven't killed the engine more than a handful of times when taking off, and those are the times that I have bobbled, and nearly dropped it. (Yes, I have dropped it a time or two, on my sloped driveway, and on gravel)
-Its not a discouraging bike to learn on. I had my doubts about riding, but this is a forgiving bike. I learned to love it quickly.
In essence, we can't decide for you. Look at what is important to you (her!) and hopefully some of our comments will help!
Oh, and yes, this forum is a wealth of information and full of knowledgeable people!
Welcome to you, and let us know what you decide....