For around a hundred bucks and a couple weekends these guys will teach you how to ride.

Motorcycle Saftey Foundation

I had never ridden, took the class and it was a snap. In Utah if you take this class you don't have to take the riding test at the DMV to get your endorsment either. My first (and only so far) is an '04 Bonneville and I love it. I'm only 5'7" with shoes on though.

-neight 2004 Triumph Bonneville Black