Suggestions for a Good Beginner Street Bike?

I am looking for a good beginner bike. I am 5'3 and 130lbs. I am willing to spend 3-4k. Thanks. =)

The Ninja 250 or Honda Rebel immediately come to mind. Something to consider, though- will you be happy with a 250? Alot of people I know bought a 250 and were ready for a different bike within a week.

If you can afford to move up start with the Kawi Ninja 250. Then when you get bored and tired of the "small bike" move up to a 650 (Ninja, Katana, GSXR, Y6)
If you want to make only one purchase I would say a Suzuki Katana 650. It is a sport-touring bike so it is comfortable to ride, has enough power to keep you excited for a while, and is easier to ride (not as twitchy) as a sport bike.
Most of all find yourself a motorcycle safety school.
Learn to ride safely (there is more to it than most people think).

you have to sit on a bike to ensure you can touch the ground and reach controls, the bike size should be 500 to 650 so it can handle trafic and wont get blown around. Buy a good used bike, check with local dealers who can help you "Fit" your bike.

The Kawaski Ninja 250 is the standard answer these days. Also look at the Honda Rebel, which is less of a sport bike and a little easier to use day after day. Suzuki makes great bikes as well.

Kawaski Ninja 250

start on a small bike like a 200cc and find a motorcycle safety school try at your tech colllage