im looking at either getting a 500r or a 250r my only concern with the 250r is that im going to get bored with it really quick, or does the new 2008 model have enough power to satisfy me?

 

Hey man welcome to the site. Someone on here that can give you some insight will post soon. Have fun.

 

I bought my 2006 500R leftover not too long ago and love it. I can see that a person looking for a powerhouse or superbike will be bored, but if you want a great bike to have a lot of fun on you'll love it. My purchase was for a commuter bike that I could have a little fun with. The 500Ris definitely that and then some.
I have no experience with the 250.

 

The new 250 does not have substantially more power than last year's bike. The big advantage to the 500 is that you can ride all day on the freeway without revving the pee out of your engine (as you must do with the 250). Also, the 500's fuel economy is just as good as the 250's; I've even met a few 250-riders who got much WORSE mileage than my 500.
Good luck and let us know if any more questions come up.
Peace!
-CCinC

 

My first bike was a 500, and I was a little nervous about it. But in my opinion as long as you take it slow and learn to ride well without trying to rush things- a 500 will be a good bike to both learn on and then enjoy long after that.

 

The 500 wins.Take it slow at first then you can rev it higher later.I get 65mpg or better.Got 70 mpg 3 times (55mph).
It will have the power you want once you get the hang of riding.

 

whats good fam? this is my first post as well and first experience with a street bike. i have been really getting interested in a bike as well for commuter purposes, my truck is killing me in gas. its definitely overwhelming trying to get info on all the models and which one fits right. despite the rave review of the 250, i feel as if i would like to go with the 500 as well.

 

I like the look of the new 250 but think it's for smaller people. The write up in Motor Cyclist last month was very positive but it did mention something of the rider's size being around 5'6" or so and 140lbs. I think.
My 500 is as small as I can ride IMO at 6' weighing 225lbs. It does scoot me along quite nicely though.

 

I still have my 250 and addition to my 500. I can honestly tell you their both fantastic bikes and will last a long time. the performance of the 250's performanceI find is similar to the 500 but at much greater rpm and strain to the engine. I find the 250 to have a more supple ride( less bumpy). Nonetheless, A 500 will be better for commuting comfort and practicallity. A 500 gets better milage supprisingly, Seriously a have both. My 500 get over 70 because i am a slow rider good luck with the 250 its almost impossible to get 70. I can't say with complete honesty(because both my bikes are still running) but the 500 should last longer.The both ride very similarly. Thier both predictable and ensew confidence in the rider.

 

I recently got a 500 which is my first bike and I love it. It is great to learn on and like they said, once you get the hang of it you will definitely find it has some power to it.