You guys do realize the 230 weighs within a few pounds of the 450s, right? Half the power and all the weight, the 230 is kind of a waste IMO. Like Corban said.
Dont forget the CRF230F is at half the price... That was a key factor at the begining of this. To get a street legal offroad bike for under $1500. I dont think one could find a WR250F, or a CRF450X for even close to that as everyone keeps hinting to. For a decent bike in that price range that will meet his criteria he will be looking at the KDX200, DR350, XR200, or a CRF230F. My recommendation was to avoid any bike that is built in the 80's as there is a world of differnce in suspension technologies.
Let's all head out to 5-mile pass and go ride around... he can try some different bikes and quickly feel which type of rides you want to have. I just got my new front tire on tonight so I am itching to get out riding somewhere anyways.