My father was in exactly the same predicament just a few months ago, having passed his test at the age of 60
He had a budget of 2k and didn't want to pay silly insurance premiums. We looked at the SV650, Bandit 600 and afew others. Eventually he bought an early (but mint) VFR800. Having ridden the bike, I am impressed, its comfy, powerful yet still very tractable & docile if you choose to ride it that way. It handles well too when on the move, but is noticably heavier to move around the garage than my GSXR.
We visit the bike show every year (its at the NEC, from 28th of this month untill Dec 7th) which is an excellent place to go get a feel for each bike. Perhaps it would be worth a day out??
