I'm 5'5" and started on a yamaha virago 750. I don't regret that choice for a second. Yes, I got a new bike the next year but that first year really forms your confidence(speaking as a woman) and having a bike that fits you and doesn't overpower you is invaluable. I do agree that if you love riding you will probably wind up with another bike in the future but so what. I found mine used with 11K miles for 2k. Low seat height and enough power that I could have kept it if I didn't want a Harley so much.....my opinion

Thanks so much to everyone for your input!! If I could find a Honda Rebel around here for a decent price I would probably jump on that offer. I saw a white one online with barely 900 miles on it for $1200 not too far from where I am but it was sold to the husband of an amazingly lucky lady just in time for christmas.

So far the best contenders in my search are the following (mostly because they aren't TOO SMALL, are close enough to go test ride, and are in my limited price range):

1986 Kawasaki KZ550- $500 or best offer, needs carbs cleaned and a battery. The lady who offered me this bike says it sits nice and low.

1982 Yamaha Vision 550- $450 or best offer. Needs battery charged and lifters adjusted(?), might be more work than its worth but it seems this one is more of a cafe racer style bike

1982 Honda CX500- $500 firm. Possibly needs an alternator along with a new battery. Seat is also kinda torn up.

1979 Yamaha XS400- $400 or best offer. Needs points cleaned and an electric starter solenoid. Still kickstarts without one. This one looks nice, like it's been well cared for.

1981 Kawasaki 550 ltd- $750 or best offer. Has almost 24,000mi on it though and needs a little carb work. Runs good.

*So far my favorite is the 86 KZ550, I'm probably gonna go look at it and then arrange a day for our mechanic guy to come look at it too.

 

Yep, I agree with many of the people above on the Honda Shadow 750. I know its a little bigger motor than you were looking for, but is a real nice machine. They are low with a good riding position.

loads of gid advice from folks ,dont go to high on the power ,also get ur man to try it out first .

cant go wrong with a honda .