So....My wife has a mid 2000´s EX250. It has been neglected a bit from storage. So I began working on it for her. Minor service issues. I had always scoffed at this class of bike. I own several bikes, sport and cruiser, all 600cc or larger. I hadn´t ridden it until I worked on it for her. THIS BIKE IS FUN!!! Its awesome. Its responsive and nimble. I wish it had a little more meat on the tire. I think its a psychological thing from having larger tires on my bike. I can´t say enough about it. The important thing is that I think its a great bike for all levels of rider. Its not going to throw you off from a start but like any bike can be dangerous in the wrong hands. Most importantly, I think this bike is an absolute joy to ride. Its just downright fun.