Getting that first motorcycle

You want to start off with a simple, cheap, standard motorcycle and be prepared to see it fall over a few times while you get used to riding it.

Just be sure that the bike runs well, has good tires and brakes, and is insured. After you've taken the Motorcycle Safety Course, you'll need to get lots of practice riding. Find an experienced motorcyclist to go out with you and act as your mentor for a couple of months. Ride around in your local area first avoiding busy roads and heavy traffic. Gradually ride on the country roads, the highways, and then the high-speed roads as you gain experience. Try to be aware of all you learned in your training and put it into practice. You may have a few spills as you ride your motorcycle. Most of these should be at low speeds or parking lot situations and will not injure you.

Your motorcycle may suffer some cosmetic damage but that's why you bought an inexpensive bike to learn on.

The first thing you have to protect is your head. In Saskatchewan, you must wear a DOT approved helmet.  Find something that is comfortable and the style that you want.  Sometimes cheaping out is not the best way to go, as comfort and noise may become a factor.

You should wear gloves specially made for riding. If you fall and hit the road, most likely, your hands will hit first. Let the road rash be on your gloves, not your hands.

You should wear hard full-length motorcycle boots. Sneakers are not a good thing. Boots limit foot and leg injuries should you fall.

I prefer a leather jacket with vents. During the summer, I open the vents to allow air circulation. During the colder months, I put in a liner to retain body heat. Riding down the road in the summer in the 45 degree heat will dry your skin quickly. A jacket will retain skin moisture and cool you. If you go down, you will thank the day you decided to wear leather and save your skin.

Leather pants or chaps are great if you want further protection. Many riders like full riding suits either of leather or synthetic material.

If you like riding in colder weather, I recommend heated vests, heated gloves, and possibly heated socks if it really gets cold. Also, a full bib-style suit such as you might use for skiing is desirable.

The reality is that riders will ride with almost anything on, sometimes offering practically no protection at all. It's your call but I hope you'll think about what I've recommended here and make an informed decision.