[MikeSVX]

If you want to get on the highway I wouldn't go with anything smaller then a 500cc in a standard single cylinder or Vtwin engine. Inline 250cc will max out at around 70 to 75 depending on your size. The old Buell Blast is a great starter 500cc Vtwin bike. It's low and light. That makes it easy to handle and easy to stand back up if you drop it. It has just enough power to get up to highway speeds. The Shadows are good to, but I've never ridden on myself. I definitely recommend getting one thats cheap and used. Also, get dood safety gear. There are two types of riders. Those that have laid a bike down and those that are going too. You don't want to be worried about dropping you nice shinny bike when your learning.