New to motorcycles, not to riding. Bike suggestions?

[TheAndrewO]

Hello all! I've always wanted to get a motorcycle but could never really afford it. Recently I've been saving to make a purchase and know that joining a forum before buying a bike is a brilliant idea.

I'm 24 yrs old, 6'3 170lbs (tall lanky guy). I've been riding (sports) ATVs for about 14 years now, and racing here and there for the past few years. I am at an advanced level when it comes to riding quads, so I'm already extremely familiar with clutch/throttle control (used to have a twist throttle on my old quad), shifting, RPM range, powerbands, etc etc.
Also, I've been riding bicycles for about 16 years. BMX, mountain, road bikes. So I'm no stranger to 2 wheels. (Yes I know a motorcycle is not a bicycle, but they share similarities.) So it's time to combine the best of both worlds!

I've ridden friends' motorcycles before, a 250, an R6 and a CBR1100XX, on the street in traffic, as well as dirt bikes.

So here's my question. I'd like to get a bike, used, and preferably a 600cc(ish). I know if I get a 250 I'll be bored within a week. (I know because when I rode my buddy's 250, I was comfortable, confident and in control in about 10min.) I'm a quick learner and have self control. So which 600 is a good 600 to get? The best bang for the buck? Reliability? Power/weight ratio? Handling? Comfort? I'm looking into the CBR600, R6, and GSXR 600, but completely open to suggestion. I'm new to the motorcycle world, not the motorized world! :biggrin:

Thanks for your help. Looking forward to becoming a part of this community!!:71baldboy:

[TheBigLebowski]

The general consensus seems to be that the CBR600 is the best bike in its class.
Just remember that the 250 is forgiving, and the ss, not so much, there is a very real reason that people say start on a 250, but if you really have been riding all those years you might be ok.

[the_Dreamer]

I am still a little new as well, but I know the feeling looking for a bike. I am 6'3 and about 210 so almost the same boat. I got an '02 Suzuki Katana 600 and I love it. From the bikes you are looking at I know the CBR600 is great, but buddy has one and its a fun ride. The GSXR600 is nice, but quite a heavy leaning bike with some weight to it. I do like the R6, but you cant go wrong with the Honda.