Might I recommend putting money aside for safety gear (moto jacket, pants, boots, gloves, helmet, goggles or sunglasses, rain gear) and an approved Motorcycle Rider Course? According to the statistics, the majority of motorcycle crashes/accidents were due to rider inexperience.

Seeing as something as minor as a 'fender bender' for a car can result in serious injury (or even death) to a rider, I would think that you'd want to even up the odds a little, nu?

So, if you're REALLY thinking of buying a bike... get some gear, take a safety course (they provide the bikes and the helmets) and depending on how you do, make your decision on what (and when) to buy. Also, many states/provinces will waive the licensing "skill" test if you pass a RiderCourse, and you can also get discounts on insurance as a benefit for passing a course. If you decide not to go with a bike afterwards, you're only out the cost of the course (typically $150-$200 US) and the cost of some clothing.

The Motorcycle-USA.Com message board has a great "Newbies" discussion area and the regulars are all very helpful. You'll find the usual "Harley vs Everyone Else" rhubarbs going on, but just about every group of rider you can think of is well represented. And nevermind the "USA" designation; there are regular posters from Canada, Europe, Australia, and I believe even a couple from WAY down south (Argentina and Brazil) all over the board.