Originally Posted by dynalow

Like Jim H, I have been riding since the 70's. I echo his advice about signing up and taking a BRC. It will help you learn to ride, help you with getting your MC license/endoresement and may give you a break on insurance.
Since you are 19 yrs old, I assume your interest is in a crotch rocket. If you were my son, if I had a son, I'd advise you to get a used small to mid size v twin. A little more tame than a racer and a used bike will be cheaper.
Get something cheap to repair with adequate supply of replacement parts. Because drop it you willl. Be certain of that.
This link gives a whole lot of info on motorcycle fatalities. Sum it up: Alcohol and time of day play the biggest roles in MC fatalities. Don't even think of not wearing a helmet.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/portal/site/nhtsa/menuitem.d7975d55e8abbe089ca8e410dba046a0/

and this.
http://www.iihs.org/research/fatality_facts/motorcycles.html

This link will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the physics of motorcycling. Read it often.

http://www.msgroup.org/TIPS.ASP

Good luck.