The 600E would make a good starter bike.It is more street oriented than the R.If you are talking about 03 models,the two bikes don't have much in commom. The 600E has dated suspension,brakes,and engine.You could learn a lot on it though.If you were talking 02 models,the 6R would be a little more forgiving.Some people advise against learning on a 600 supersport.I think they're okay, shown a little respect.I agree that those SV650's would make an excellent starter bike,unless you're a die hard kawi man.