This is a great bike for beginners. I also own a 2004 Kawasaki Ninja 500, which is also a great beginner bike, but I´m just a little bit too big for that bike. I just bought my 2005 Katana 600 today and I love it already. It handles smoothly and it has enough power for me. I fit this bike better, the passenger seat is comfortable and higher so my wife can see over my head now, unlike the Ninja. You will not be disappointed with this bike!