I was going to say what Mary Anne said. I asked the same question a few days ago, and Russians were the unanimous answer. Apparently the draw back is that CBB's are difficult to find. Good luck!
I saw a bunch of baby Russian yesterday here in California. I wonder if they are willing to ship. I took a picture of them yesterday, but left my camera in another CTTC members car. We went on a field trip on Saturday. Darn! I know I have their email here, I will email them and see.
If I would have known this I could have bought them and shipped them myself!
Not a good choice for a "starter tortoise", either...again, a bit delicate and, as you mentioned, PRICEY! But an interesting species that I want to get into, myself, eventually.
That Iberian I referred to would be a great choice, and, as it's from a previous owner, she would have someone who knows the tort well to answer any questions that come up...heck of a deal!
For sure Russian Tortoises, I know a friend who has one. So cute and a very manageable size. But another thing you might want to consider is how friendly the species is. I have had my Red Foot for years and hasnt bitten me once