You can NEVER have too big of a battery! Even at 3.7v, which is what the eGo/Riva's are, bigger batteries keeps the higher charge longer with provides more consistency for longer. So I would get the highest mAh eGo battery you can.
I think the eGo/Riva should be a minumum starting point for new vapers. Anything smaller and the frustration level and inconsistency goes way up for many who vape. If you find you like vaping, then at some point you should try a good 5 volt or variable volt PV. The difference in consistency and throat hit is significant. The GLV2 is probably one of the best 5 volt PV's from Great Lakes Vapor. But variable volt is the future of vaping due to the control and flexibility it gives the user.
If you want to make the transition to vaping the nicotine strength of the e-liquid is important. Many new vapers start out way too low in nic. strength and have a hard time making the switch. I would suggest getting some 24mg strength e-liquid (or prefilled if you are set on this way to start) and then adjusting up or down based on your personal needs. From the many polls on this and other vaping sites, 24mg is the most commonly used strength level.
You may want to check out Liberty Flights for eGo/Riva kits. They have 20% off sale and their shipping is only $3. They have good liquid too. Home Counties is one of my favorites: E Liquid - E Liquid 5ML - PG - Tobaccos. The supplier with by far the largest variety is nhaler.com. I would check them out, also.
And I agree with you 100% on the "traitor" Rich Rodrequez.
Good Luck and PM anytime with questions.
