Hey whadda ya mean bigger isn't always better? ;) ;)
From my experience the best way to find out which bike is for you and the riding you do is to try riding the ones you are considering. In fact, try the ones you aren't considering too, that's how I ended up with the CR500. I started out on my KLX300 "you need a fourstroke" the ex boyfriend said. "That bikes too big" the other girls said. But, I liked it & it worked for me.
When my riding improved I wasn't happy with the KLX anymore so on a ride with several other people, I started asking about their bikes & sure enough everyone thought their's was the best & that I needed to try em out to see for myself. I tried the XR200 (too small for me 5'10" & 140), XR400 wasn't any better than my KLX, KX250 was great, if I could keep it on the trail (would be a blast on the track)!! KX500 wasn't a hit with me. Got to the CR500 & I was in love, went out & bought my own & got it set up just like the one I test rode (kept it's owner too :)).
The point to my rambling is your best bet is to ride the different bikes if possible. If not, go to the dealers or private party selling the bikes & sit on them. If you can't actually testride the bike, using the experiences of the people here and others that are familiar with the bikes plus you're impression from sitting on them, starting them, etc. and what you can afford will give you a good chance of finding one suitable for you!
That's how I picked the KLX. Asked for recommendations, tried it out briefly, bought it, rode it and learned that it wasn't what I really wanted. Now, if I could just learn to sell the things I don't want before buying the things I do want, I'd have a lot more room in the shop.
Anyone looking for a 1990DS80, 1998KLX300, 1991 Ford Bronco, 1978 Chevy 4x4, 1996 Polaris Indy Lite?
Good luck with whatever bike you choose & remember, it's all about having a great time!!
[This message has been edited by bbbom (edited 11-07-2000).]