i know there are a lot of "i want to start riding" or "what bike should i get" threads (which im sure most of you guys are tired of reading and replying to) but i cant seem to find the answer to my questions in any of em so here it goes...



ive been wanting to get a bike now for the longest time, but the only thing holding me back from accomplishing this is the fact that i dont know anyone with a bike and i have never ridin one. so my question is...how am i suppose to shop around for one that i like and feel comfortable with if i cant test drive it? im planning on taking the course or whatnot but if i dont have a bike to learn on, nor do i know how to ride one, then how am i suppose to choose one? i know this might seem ridiculous but im very careful with my money and i like to know what im getting into before i spend my 4-5 grand on a used bike.

im pretty sure the some people have been in this situation and can relate to what im saying one way or another...so post any mistakes/tips/experiences you had when you were starting out so i can feel more comfortable with my decision.

thanks
sergio