newbie questions

hi ive read alot about bikes and im really interested in them, and i think i am going to get one. my dad has had 1 when he was earlier, but did not ride so much but he gave me the go ahead to get one.

i am planing to take the msf course as soon as it gets warm, im in nyc, bit chillly as of late.

i am wondering is is like riding a bicycles? cuz i like bicycles =]

and well from the forums on this site and others ive read that a 500cc bike like the gs500 would be good to start out on, or maybe even a bandit. i dont have much money as im only 18, so im going to get one used.

it would be greatly appreciated if anyone would give me sum good advice in looking for a used bike like the gs500 for maybe under 3000, like maybe which years are good.

and also, should i get all that leather, it seems a bit expensive and id rather put it into the bike.

thx =]