if you really need to start riding right now and want at least a little bit of approval from the mom, i would get a ninja250. its boring as all shit by the end of the season, but you can sell it for what you bought it for next year around this time (unless you wreck it or bought it new right now), and then upgrade this winter when bigger bikes are a lot cheaper. dont forget the gear, and the MSF course is a great way to learn how to ride. sign up for one and start trying to get a walk-in spot. my class was for august when i signed up, but i got in a course in april by just showing up every week.