Not all bikes can be restricted in this way, and its not always a good idea as the engines characteristics are changed significantly by the methods used. The SV650 is a terrific bike, and very popular as a first timer as it is quick enough, and handles really well, plus it is good value. I would generally agree with your boyfriend though, even six months on a smaller bike, particularly through the winter months, will make you a better rider next spring and more ready to get a nice shiny new bike to enjoy for the summer. I would suggest that you avoid sports 400s though, as they tend to be out and out sports bikes, and need to really be ridden to apreciate them, the best of the bunch to start on would probably be a Honda VFR400 or CBR400, as these do have enough low down torque to enable you to ride at less than 10/10ths and still be comfortable. My personal choice however would be a Honda CB500. They are fast enough, (110mph) handle really well, (there has been a popular one make race series for them) and are well built, like most Hondas. Also there are plenty around second hand so you can be choosy, prices start at about �600 and go up to about �2,500 for a late (2003) model.