i was 22 when i got my honda 500 Interceptor. i didnt die.
if they still make the SV650 do that..it was a wonderful bike. i taught a tiny japanese woman how to ride on one when she bought it cold turkey. i had to ride it back for her from the seller.
it is easy to ride..managable torque for easing away with crappy clutching skills.
and KUDOS for helping the kid get his first bike..i know many kids that had to HIDE it from their parents from the get-go.