What sort of bike would be good for someone like me...?

[L=iz5]

I know basically nothing about motorcycles, sports bikes, or dirt bikes... but I'm REALLY wanting to get one of the above and learn to ride it soon... like, this year, most likely.

See, I'm a girl. And I weigh around 105 lbs. I wanna make sure I get a bike that's not too big and powerful, but still quick-ish, fun to ride, and good for beginners. So... if anybody knows what sort of bike I should be looking for, or has any good advice - I'd really appreciate it! =]

[DustyJacket]

Take an MSF approved Beginning Rider's Course, BEFORE you buy a bike.

In the class they will not only teach you how to ride, safely, but they will go over the types of bikes.

Then, once you pass the class and get your license, you can go sit on bikes and see what fits.

[Wrider]

Agreed on the MSF class. Once you're there ask them about a Ninja 250 (sport bike), or perhaps a Rebel 250 or 450 (cruiser) Both good beginner bikes for small people.
Seeing as you're a girl, I'm sure you can find plenty of guys in your area to talk with about starting out! But don't let them talk you into a 600cc Sportbike as a first bike. Those I'll never recommend to a first timer, especially such a small person.
Wrider

[ceemes]

What Dusty and Wrider said. Also, get your gear first, most important.

[L=iz5]

Thanks a bunch for all of the helpful advice!! I'll def. take a look into all of that the next chance I get! hehe

[Dragonhawk]

I know basically nothing about motorcycles, sports bikes, or dirt bikes... but I'm REALLY wanting to get one of the above and learn to ride it soon... like, this year, most likely.

See, I'm a girl. And I weigh around 105 lbs. I wanna make sure I get a bike that's not too big and powerful, but still quick-ish, fun to ride, and good for beginners. So... if anybody knows what sort of bike I should be looking for, or has any good advice - I'd really appreciate it! =]

Read my webpage - there is a link below in my signature. It will answer all of your questions, plus a lot of questions you haven't even thought to ask yet.

Best wishes and have fun out there.

[NewGuy]

It's a little dated as some of the models listed have been discontinued, or have new names. However, it's a good reference and many of the bikes recommended are readily available on the used market:

http://www.chuckhawks.com/good_first_motorcycles.htm

[RC Fan]

I bought my first bike last summer, and looking back, I wish I had gotten a lighter bike. If you are looking at sportbikes or standards, shoot for a weight of around 400lbs dry or less. The '08 Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a cool looking ride, and weighs in at about 333 dry.

[storysunfolding]

*cough* BASIC rider course *cough**cough*

[Brackstone]

*cough* BASIC rider course *cough**cough*

*hands story an educationally flavored lozenge"