(i know you said "Same engine design" but I'm not sure if he will understand...)
When considering power you also have to consider a number of other things. The number of cylinders matters greatly to the power, power delivery and feel of the engine. A kawasaki Ninja ZX-6(600cc four cylinder) is alot more powerful than a Ninja 650 (650cc two cylinder.) The 650 is alot more appropriate for a first bike, though Sachi is right a 250 or possible a 500 twin would be a better choice.
When considering power you also have to consider a number of other things. The number of cylinders matters greatly to the power, power delivery and feel of the engine. A kawasaki Ninja ZX-6(600cc four cylinder) is alot more powerful than a Ninja 650 (650cc two cylinder.) The 650 is alot more appropriate for a first bike, though Sachi is right a 250 or possible a 500 twin would be a better choice.