Seconded. A 250cc bike will still give you more acceleration than almost any car, will cost 1/10th the price, and limit the accident-causing potential of goosing the throttle.

Anecdote: My step-dad taught my how to ride and gifted me a 500cc Yamaha. Every rider I talked to would tell me something like "it's not a matter of if you're going to crash, but when." This stuck with me, and after riding and having fun for two years I gave it up before my luck ran out.

My first bike was CBR919RR, but i see where you are coming from. And the main goal is not using it as a drug, but as a means of transportation that gives you that little extra, something that makes you smile. But with this said, use the correct clothing and common sense. If you are an adrenaline junkie restrict your motorbiking to a track instead.

Agreed. Speaking from experience, any bike is a trip to the ER. Riding in to my office job was one of the best parts of my day - until I was hit head on by a car. It's not worth it to me anymore, cyclists are invisible to drivers!

Try louder exhaust next time =P

I cant upvote this enought, loud pipes save lifes.

Also depending on where you live you might want to be careful about riding a bike... honestly would never ride one in the WDC area.