Originally Posted by bluetwo
Starters =
A sporty bike would be the Suzuki GS500 is an excellent starter bike. It's not overly powerful aby any means, but it'll haul ass around town.
A cruiser type bike would be the Honda Shadow.... oh I can't remember 450 or 500 or something like that... very similar in performance to the GS if just a little slower.
There are actually plenty of other sub-liter bikes that make great starters but they're probably a bit less popular.
honda rebel is by far the most popular starter bike because of it's easy nature. i must say though, through my research, i have found a winning combination to be a mid 90's 600 paired with learning to ride at a MSF course with the rebel before venturing out on the 600.
and a word for the wise. i've said this before, and i will most likely be saying it again... when you think you are ready to take it to the next level, you arent.