Newbie advice

Ok - as a newbie - my best advice - once you have taken the safety class - find a bike that fits your size and skill level - then ride, ride, ride. Practice your skills and once you are comfortable venture out into the roadways. Start with roads where the traffic is relatively light and go from there. Push yourself a little but always stay within your scope of experience and skill. And dont get cocky. My friends who are experienced riders tell me that the little bit of fear I still feel sometimes will help keep me outta trouble. Take your time - you have your whole life to ride so no need to rush into doing what you are not comfortable with. And as much as I hate the helmet - wear it. Messy, flat, sweaty hair is better then a clunk on the head. And if you stall or drop the bike - just get back on and keep going. The more you ride the better you will get and the more fun it becomes. Morning rides are my favorites - less traffic and an invigorating way to start the day.