Any ideas of what might have caused this? After stalling the bike out (didn't gas it enough to take off in 2nd) and firing it back up I could down shift into first.

Just a strange quirk or something that I need to investigate more?

The bike is an '07 XT w/under 200 miles on it

This bike is harder than most to get into first gear. Change oil often and only use recommended oil. That will help, but the most important thing is just getting a feel for the bike.

Or the short answer; Yes, just a strange quirk.

You'll find others have discussed this same thing on this site if you search around a bit.

If you are talking about shifting down to first from neutral then it helps if you rock the bike forwards and backwards a little. I had to do this with my old honda 185 also. I hope that helps.

A 2nd release out and in on the clutch would have let it go right into 1st gear.
Mine will do this occasionally. I believe its the nature of the beast .

THanks for the advice guys - so far it hasn't done a repeat performance but will try the suggestions.