The sticky thread has a lot of good information.
Best advice I have:
- Buy David Hough's Proficient Motorcycling read it at least twice.
- Go to an MSF Riding Course, statistics show that you are less likely to become a statistic if you have formal training than if you let a friend teach you
- Start in the dirt if you can. Dropping a motorcycle seems to be inevitable, if you do this with a dirtbike it's no big deal. Dirt is also less likely to hurt you. Additionally you wil learn low traction riding techniques that can save your butt when you come across the sudne oil slick or sandy corner.
- For your first streetbike, 250 to 500cc with as little plastic as possible. If you learn quickly, consider it temporary. Small light bikes will give you confidence that you won't have on a less forgiving ride. Confidence and fun are directly linked to eachother on a motorcycle.
- Buell Blast
- GS500E
- Ninja 250
- Nighthawk 250
- Gear, wear it for every ride (Go for the ride, dress for the fall)
- Helmet DOT and/or Snell rated
- Jacket (Leather > Textile > Denim)
- Gloves
- Boots that protect your ankles
- Pants (Leather > Textile > Draggin Jeans > Jeans > Shorts)