Hi Steve, dont be put off , the learning curve on a rials bike is infinite. I'm into my 4th year now, started on gas gas 250 2007 , Great little bike . Slow throttle just means you need a bigger twist to make more happen. Plenty of people keep riding with the slow throttle as it makes for slow trickling through a section easier. It might benefit you riding with someone else who can help you set your bike up, bar position, levers etc it might stop you learning some bad habits. get yourself along to a few trials local to you watch and chat to other newbeeis, you really can learn a lot from watching and in my experience pretty much everybody riding will give you helpfull advice.