About six months ago I was thinking about getting my motorcycle permit. After kleinbl00 and goobster gave me some excellent advice (and I saved a shit-load of money) I now have the permit and a bike! A gorgeous Suzuki SV650S. So thanks a bunch, guys! Not having to catch public transport to work and being able to park right at the front door of the cafe is making me so happy. I can't believe I didn't do this sooner. I was hoping to go for a few nice rides this weekend, but the weather doesn't want me to go. Stupid Victorian spring...
So happy for you! The SV650 is an excellent choice. All-around great bike, easy to take care of, easy to ride, sporty enough that it will far exceed your skills for a couple of years, so you can grow into it. And, when it falls over - because it will, either with you on it, or not - there isn't a whole lot of plastic and geegaws to get damaged. Happy riding, my friend!
It's definitely a step up from the CB125s we were using for the MSF equivalent here. I haven't ridden for longer than about 45mins in one go yet. The riding position is quite aggressive, so I'm not sure how I'll go with longer rides. Hoping to get out for a bit tomorrow if the weather is ok.