What's a good beginner sports bike?

I'm 5'8", 150 lbs. I took the course last year and now looking to buy. I've narrowed it down to the 2007 Honda CBR125R and the 2008 Kawi 250. I'm mainly going to use it to commute to work (23 km away on the highway) but I'd also like to take it out on the weekends.

I heard that the bike tops at around 100-120 km/h.
If this is true, then that'll be enough for taking on the highway.

A Kawasaki Ninja 250 they are fast for their size but not too fast and they've been around for a while so the number of bikes is pretty large and there's a lot of parts available for them.

Ninja 250...

I bought a used 02 ninja 250 for my first bike a couple of months ago after completing the msf course and its a really good one to learn on...granted id like some more power but i wasn't willing to risk buying a brand new/larger engined bike since theres always the possibility of laying it down at some point since it will be your first bike getting some real experience on...so be weary of the new ninja...if you scratch it youll be pissed cause its a sexy little bike and just be careful...im in north jersey and need i say people drive like **** so i've had a few close calls as it is....people just dont pay attention...especially to bikes.

Be safe and have fun

go with the honda 250, the 125 will definitely get OLD quick...

maybe even go with a 600 if you've been riding a season...

if you were brand spankin new fresh, I'd say go with the ninja 250, it has had GREAT reviews as a beginner bike...

I'd also say Suzuki GS500F.
But if you MUST have one of the two bikes you've listed, make it the Kawasaki 250.
A 125cc motorcycle isn't going to take you on the highway, bud.

I am buying a Suzuki Gs500. All of their models from like 92-03 look nearly identicle and I like the naked look. I have been told some people have gotten away with insuring the bike as a standard bike. Its great on gas 60mpg

that would be a mistake,

a 1995-2000 CBR 600 F4i or RR would be a great learner

2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R. A 125 won't keep up on the highway.

don't ask these people, go out and test a few, see what fits you and buy the one you like..