2008 Ninja 650R?

I’m 17, 6′0 – 6′1, and 220 – 230 lbs. I’m new to riding and mainly want a bike because they are very cheap compared to cars. I’m looking at a Ninja 650R. Is that bike big enough for my size? I also liked the Suzuki 650 but i’m leaning to the Ninja because I like the exaust better (and its cheaper.) Is Suzuki Better? Also does anyone know about how many MPG it will get? My guess would be around 70 but I could be way off. And finally insurance, I live in the Houston area in Texas.
What is a good website that sells motorcycle gear?

The Ninja 650R is a great bike for a beginner. Friendly power, and enough power to last you for a while. Only real knock I’ve heard against it is that some examples have front brakes that weren’t as strong as others. Kawasaki may have fixed this since the intro, too.

As for how well it will fit your frame, best way to find that out is to sit on one. Your dimensions aren’t so unusual, so I don’t think it would be too much of a problem. I’d pay special attention, however, to the angle at which your knees are bent. Since you’re on the tall side, I’d take care to make sure that they aren’t bent at too much of an angle. That can get uncomfortable after a while.

I’ve heard good things about the GSX650F, too, and it would also be a good beginner bike. (I assume that’s the model you’re talking about).

MPG might be closer to 60. That’s going to vary with your riding, too.

Insurance may be pricey. Young males on sportbikes pay a pretty heavy premium. The 650R is a lot closer to a “standard” bike than a sport bike, though it looks racy. Kinda depends on how the insurance company classifies it. Definitely would be a good idea to shop around.

Also, make sure you allocate some of your funds for gear. I know it gets hot in Houston, but riding gear is a lot less hot than skin grafts.