I had an Activa 240 and it weighed closed to 25 pounds! I traded it in on a Babylock Symphony.
I also have a Babylock Audrey and cannot say enough good things about it. It weighs 12 pounds, has needle down for pivoting, about 30 stitches, comes in it's own little carry case and even comes with a little extension table. I have used it for classes, and at home, and find it to be a very solid little machine. I think they run around $300 now.

I bought the Target Janome Hello Kitty machine for my daughter-in-law who was a beginner and it's a good little portable machine and fits easily in a rolling scrapbook case. I had in mind it could be handed down to my grand-daughter when she wants to learn to sew. Just think about some of the small ones only do 3 sizes of straight stitch and no tight zig-zag for applique.

Target also carries small machines, less than $100 for a few.

No. Different manufacturers will give you a different 1/4" foot and ultimately many people struggle getting a 1/4" that matches consistently. So, many people opt to keep a project on one machine. Yes, of course it's up to the sewer to get the 1/4" or scant 1/4", but this can be tricky with multiple machines. Especially if you have a travel machine where you can't move the needle over a notch to the right or left(or two).

Do not try the new Singer Feather Weight. It is cheaply made of plastic with a lot of little plastic hinges that I was affraid would break off. I understand Singer has been sold and with it its quality. I returned my after a couple of days.

The Brother SQ 9000 is good and lightweight. It will sew without the foot with the push of a button. Sturdy, quiet and sews well.

Here's a cutie:

11 lbs and comes with the 1/4 inch foot. Free shipping and 129.00

http://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/janome-3125.php

I have two very expensive embroidery/quilting machines, but they sometimes get cranky. However, the machine I bought at WalMart for $80 seven years ago runs great. Besides which, if I'm not travelling with it I use it like a Sidewinder. It's not much more expensive than the $35 Sidewinder, performs the same function, and it sews too.

Janome had the best machine. 12Lbs. Comes with an extension table and the 1/4 in foot and best of all it has a thread cutter. Just the best of everything for taking with you to quilt classes. It is the 3160

I'm curious...Why don't you just get a Featherweight?