My first bike was a CB350. It was screaming at highway speeds, but its made to scream for long periods of time. My second bike was an 1100cc Honda V65 Magna. My mileage was significantly better on the bigger bike too.

Watch out for insurance on a Ninja 250. Some companies charge a fortune for that bike, on par with the 600cc crotch racers.

get the Rebel and plan on upgrading quick.