As for the comfort I’m all for that. I’m not concerned with strength as I am in shape.
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Kawasaki Ninja 250: Perfect for your stature, very comfortable to ride, extremely light, and no serious vices.
Don’t laugh, it’s not a toy. My ’01 was my daily driver (no cage for several years) and it does fine on the freeway, in the mountains (Palomar is fun), and everywhere else. 0-60 in 5.5 seconds ought to keep you entertained for a while.
The previous model “Ninjette” is a great bike. I haven’t looked closely at the current model (new in ’08 or ’09), but by all accounts it’s a worthy update.
I also own a really big and fast bike (’96 Triumph Trophy 1200), but the 250 is more fun.
Do be aware that you will get hurt on a motorcycle at some point, same as riding a bicycle. Statistics say that you’re most vulnerable in your first six to ten months, but it can happen any time. I had my arm bolted back together 20-odd years ago after a nasty wreck, and my knee still kind of bends sideways. I also dumped my 250 at about 10mph and jammed my toe a few years ago when a bicycle jumped out of nowhere. That toe still hurts, but I’m not 19 years old anymore.
I don’t want to scare you out of riding–far from it–but you need to understand that it’s a risky way to get around. It’s also great fun.
