excellent bike for a beginner. Lightweight, very Nimble, and easy to ride. Most of all, FUN to ride. Very low maintenance, very, very dependable. some say the Katanas are "bulletproof". the 600 also has plenty of get up and go. More than enough for a beginner, and plenty for an experienced rider as well. The top end on this bike is unbelievable. once you get it up over 6500 or 7000 rpm, this thing flies. I would buy another one without hesitating, and I´ve been riding for 20+ years.