Getting Experience; trading up

I bought a 250 Ninja last August and have ridden about 2000 miles.  I like the bike and had no plans to consider trading up any time soon, but I can't really ride with friends on 600s and faster bikes and expect them to wait for me.  I want to be safe and make sure that I maximize the learning experience of my 250; how many miles should I ride it before considering trading up to faster bike?  What is a recommended next bike?  Does one merely get a GS500 or a 500 Ninja, or does one move on to something like an SV650, Honda 599, or FZ6, or does one purchase an older 600?  I'd like to acquire enough experience to be able to go to a Keith Code School and maximize my learning there.  Please help.  Thanks.  

Very good question, autophile. I can understand the mild frustration of being on a slower bike. But you've got the track laid out correctly in your head. It's a gradual learning process that makes a rider better. Don't let yourself get baited to get more bike before you're ready.

If you're outgrowing your 250, move up to where you're comfortable. You'll know when you sit on a bike if it intimidates you. Chances are you're thinking about a used bike, so you'll likely be able to take it for a spin before buying: big benefit. Try out a 500 & 600 on the same day, if possible. I'll bet you'd do great on a Honda 599, or maybe even an inexpensive F3, for the next year or so. After that you'll be scratchin' for a new 600 sport bike. And you'll be ready to handle it correctly at the level we all dream about.

I'll be taking Keith's class before the summer's up as well, and I'm very excited about it.

Keep riding and let us know what you decide.

 

I just read the Guide for Beginning Riders, which Trevitt has posted, and I do think I still have many miles to cover and experience to acquire before I move up to a 500 or a 600.  Thanks for your recommendations.