Finally decided it was time to introduce myself. I've been on the site quite often reading everything. I took the MSF course this spring, then decided I would like to get my own bike. I bought a 2004 Ninja 500. I love riding on my own. Since I got my bike in May I have put 3,300 miles on it. My husband and I hit the back roads and letter roads ( as he calls them) out of traffic and off the highway. Not real fast in the turns yet, but I'll get there. I love riding and am so glad I took the class and finally got my own bike. I've already done a bit of customizing (Vance and Hines Super Sport 2 into 1 pipe, Gen-Mar handle bar risers, jet kit ) You sure can spend some money. Fun fixing it up though. 