looking for a new bike

[FALCONSEYE]

+1 on the riding course.

Since you're a noob I'd suggest NOT buying a new bike. Chances are you're going to drop it at low speed and it won't hurt as much if it's a slightly used bike rather than a new one you brought home from the dealership.

The performance of all of the japanese 600's are going to be quite comperable, especially for a noob that's not going to ride it anywhere near it's max. Unless you're partial to a particular brand or color scheme/style I'd suggest sitting on them all and finding the one that's most comfortable for you and that you can ride all day.

Wow, a ton of responses. Thanks to all of you! I would like to add couple things to what have been said already. I am not liking the naked bikes as much.
I am sure that I will drop the bike several times. I started by looking around for a used bike but I found out that something that is not abused is as much as a new one. i.e. $7500 for a used 07 gsx-r 600, where I can buy a new 08 for the same money.

If I could find a used but not abused bike for $6k - $7k, I will be happy. All is talk is making me get all excited. yeee...

Also, how good are the frame sliders?

By the way, 09 honda cbr 600 looks very sexy...