[turbo6bar]

Appreciate the advice.

I wouldn't say I'm the ideal type of beginner, but after logging tens of thousands of miles on a bicycle, I finally learned no one can see me. The main adjustment is getting accustomed to more weight, and learning to look farther down the road.

I never would have considered the SV650 based on its looks--it looks like a sport bike that would eat up a newbie. However, the reviews speak for the bike.

I've been in contact with the seller of the blue SV650. He has the title in hand and is eager to sell. I'm trying to find the time to drive east and find a way to load a 400 lb bike in the back of a truck. The next motorcycle class is next weekend.

I'm definitely game for the SV650, but in the back of my mind I'm thinking, "Buy something dirt cheap locally. Beat it up until next fall and then buy something interesting." On the other hand, I can buy a four year old SV650 for $2500. Geez... can I really lose?

Should I buy a helmet locally to get a great fit? Prices are all over the map. Is there any bare minimum I should budget. I'm planning to get full face unless there's something great about the flip down helmets.