[trenttheuncatchable]

You want to be able to have both feet flat on the ground, whether you're experienced or not. Don't worry about the bike's handling changing because you've lowered the bike, get it lowered. Just make sure that it's lowered the same for both front and rear. You might have to get the kickstand shortened also. I'm not going to ask how much your friend is going to charge you for that custom suspension; you'll have to decide whether he's taking you to the cleaners or not.

The previous suggestions for learning on a different bike before riding the 1200cc Buell are good ones. Get a Kawasaki Ninja 250. The new 2008 model is what I'd like to suggest, because it's way cool. But, of course, you really should get a used bike, so an older model is what makes sense.

 

[trenttheuncatchable]

If you as a rider are comfortable riding a bike where you're on tippy toes, then good for you. But in my experience, because I deal with things like uneven pavement, slopes, rainy conditions, curbs, and (sometimes) heavy bikes, I don't feel comfortable on a bike unless I can put both feet flat on the ground. I'm not talking about environments like dirt or the race track. I'm referring to riding on the street. That is my personal opinion. You are all entitled to your own.