Actually I just got my bike permit also.....I want to get it in the summer after finals are over....I was looking in the 500 - 600 cc range.....I have read and heard that one should start off with 250 cc but you can get used to the power easily....I was looking for a Ninja or Yamaha R6.....I really want a Buell XBR9 but it is too powerful for a beginner bike......I think 500 - 600 cc are a good middle ground but it depends on how comfortable you are with the bike.....