1. Take the Motorcycle Safety Training Class.
2. Take the Motorcycle Safety Training Class.
3. Take the Motorcycle Safety Training Class.
The class is a lot of fun and the knowledge you gain from it will answer most of your questions. If possible, take the class before buying the bike. It may change your opinion of what motorcycle you'll want.
Man, I miss my bike.
-Blast
+100
And not just because I'm a licensed instructor. Everybody who rides should take a class even if they've been riding for 40 years.