The blue 500 looks great! If i didn't have my 600 and was looking for a bike, i'd probably go get it! Being a beginner, you might be better with the 250 though. Now it would just be up to what you want to pay. Gas is really cheap on a bike. My 600 takes a $15 tank to fill from completely empty and will last me about 4-5 hours of riding(not stop-and-go riding or traffic riding). The 500 might be a bit powerful for you as a starter bike, but after riding the 250 for the rest of this season and next season, you'll probably want a bigger bike. The 500 is going to eat gas compared to the 125 just because its bigger and has more power.But Gas and motorycles is not even a problem like it is in cars cuz they do so well if you ride them right. I'm looking around for a 750 so if i come across any that would be good for you i'll let you know.Don't rush into buying anything now, bikes usually sell for really cheap at the beginning and end of the season because riders are upgrading for next season.