Why hasn't anyone mentioned the good ole Ninja 500R/EX500? It was always better than the GS500 and has a ton of accesories to make it look any way you want. The motor is bulletproof. The riding position is very upright (good for beginners). It is very lightweight and easy to ride. Tires are cheap, although harder to find now.

I had one I bought brand new off the showroom floor back in 89. It still looks as good today and more importantly runs as good today as it did then. I know this because I gave it to my dad when I bought my 900rr. The bike has been virtually unchanged in almost 20 yrs, which is a double edge sword. It can be had used pretty cheap.

Just my