I'm looking at getting one too. Commute and fun. So far my wife has not put the cabash on this idea...

Take the safety course. I'm also thinking about taking more advanced courses.

I'm looking at the Ducati 696 Monster. http://www.ducati.com/bikes/monster/696/index.do

BMW F650 is considered a good starter bike.

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'07 Yukon 2500
'13 Subaru Outback 3.6R
'13 Orbea Carpe 9-speed

Currently Benzless
Formerly: 300TD, S600, E55, 560SEL

---= The forest breathes, listen.
-Native American elder