First, welcome aboard. About the bike, I'd never buy something I can't ride first. Also, I'd never pay over kbb. For $3k, we can find you some deals. Personally, I'd be looking at SV650's, F4i's, Bandit's, etc. $3k can get you a nice bike, nicer than a 12k Katana that the owner won't let you test ride. Good luck. PS: If I get some free time I'll post some links to deals for you.