Hey Matt! I'm not a father (except for my dog), but I am married and could potentially be a father at any time. I went through the questions you're going through about safety and what not, but I took the course and bought a bike still this year; My beautiful '05 Ninja 250 {No need for applause; Thank-you!}
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I just upped my life insurance, and got long term disability. I always wear a helmet, gloves, jacket, and ankle highs (hopefully real boots soon). Although I get nervous at times, I just pray before I get on and enjoy the ride!
I prefer the bike and bought it for similar reasons as you, gas prices and insurance costs, but don't get it twisted or let others make it seem that the 250 is too small and can't do this or that. It is a great and capable bike! Fast enough to get you in trouble, and more than quick enough to get you out of trouble.
I was dumb enough to try a wheelie on mine, but smart enough now not to try that again. (Although I say "try", I accomplished the wheelie, and landed just fine, but the curb in front of me didn't want to move out of my way for some reason
) My point is, that the 250 is still a m/c that handles the tasks very well, and is great on gas.
I also dislike hearing the "horror" stories, especially from non-riders, but I always try to find out EXACTLY what happened, so that I can learn from OTHERS mistakes. But 8 out of 10 times it's riders error, i.e. improper gear, not paying attention, riding tooooo fast, and especially riding intoxicated!
Get out there and ride and have fun! Just watch your back! and your sides... and especially your front! Ya, watch your front
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