i'm not sure what bike this one was built to replace but i like it. maybe. i know several people, some on this forum, have said that the sv650 would make a good starter bike. now what about this new gsx650f? could it be in this category as well?

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=36478.0

i allready read that post. thanks. that's the one that got me to lookin at the bike.

its replacing the katana

Now you've got me thinking about starting my own thread about this.  I think it is going to say. . . "It looks good in black."  Keep your eyes peeled guys.  Should be a pretty good thread. 

nobody has actually given me an opinion on this bike as a possible first bike. some folks have recommended the sv650 so i'm thinkin this gsx650 might fit the bill as well. opinions? comments? i do know that this bike is a tad shorter than the gs, it's narrower. it does weigh more but being shorter and narrower would that not lower my center of gravity a little making me feel the bikes weight less?

You'd be hard pressed to find anyone that is not a Suzuki test rider that has riden this bike.  But I'd bet it has a lot more balls than an SV650.  That said, IMO it would be a dandy of a starter bike. 

Do you currently own a motorcycle?

me? no, no bike yet. hence the starter bike question! 

A Starter Bike otherwise known as a learner or first bike?? Not this one. IMHO that for your first bike you'll want to stay with a 500cc or under. You really don't want oodles & gobs of power and a heavy bike when you're first learning how to ride. Have you taken the MSF course yet?
Just my 0.02 worth, Tony

safety course has been taken yes. have my "M" endorsement.

i have no intentions of getting in over my head with power. i was just saying that several people have suggested the sv650 as a starter bike. this bike is 650 as well. i just wondered how the two compared. if anyone can give me any info that i can't read on the suzuki site. was hoping i'd luck out and someone who works at a suzuki dealership or such could give me an insider's opinion.

I think all the extra weight of the GSX650F will take away some of the fun of riding.  It won't handle quite as well as the SV650 IMO.  But for a first bike I would also suggest something 500cc's or smaller, it'll make you a better rider for starting small. seriously.

650 inline 4 is alot different than a 650 v twin. 

If your looking for a starter bike around 600cc's try the ninja 650 or the sv650.

Meh. . . I think you'd get used to it in a couple days.  The problem I'd see with  it is you'd probably still want to upgrade for next summer.  But then you'r upside down on what amounts to a sport tourer with no balls.  But I bet it has a lot more power than a SV but still really managable.