I don't like them either, they are dangerous...normally, it's not the driver of the cycle that causes problems, but other drivers around them. My husband and I had one for a little while, but we didn't use it much, so we sold it off...I was always the passenger. But if you want one, that's entirely up to you. Is this a bike that both you and your husband can drive? Or do you want to be just the passenger?
My Father has a Yamaha Royal Star I believe it is. It of course comes in different cc's. But my Aunt has one two, one of the smaller ones and they are very nice bikes at a reasonable price....Harley's are so overpriced. My aunt is small and 65 yrs old and has no problem handling her bike...she loves it. Or are you wanting one of those crotch rocket things? I know nothing about them. Harley Sporsters are smaller and can be easily handled by women...but sometimes men won't drive them because...they feel it's a womans bike.
If you are wanting to go on long rides, a touring bike is nice (like a Honda Gold Wing)..nice big seats for your bum...on the downsize, they are heavy for women to be driving. There are so many factors...kinda just like buying a car...do your homework. On the plus side...they take very little gas and with the price of that today, that's always a good thing!
Safety...whomever is going to be driving it should take a motorcycle safety course...when my hubby had his bike, it was mandatory in PA, don't know if it is where you are or not. But it was a week long, 2-3 hrs in the evening and you had to pass a written and driving test and you got your endorsement at the end of the week, no need to go to the state's driving center, so it was actually nice...they also provided the bikes and I believe it was only like $40, but that was a while ago.
You are definately going to have to get you both some leathers
. Leather pants or chaps...they will save you from the inevitable spill at a stop sign...which you WILL have...please do not wear shorts on a bike and always wear somekind of heavy boot. Leather jacket too...that was actually the fun part...shopping for the leather. And of course a full helmet...I know the half helmets are so much cooler
, but you might as wear nothing if you are going to wear one of those.
My Dad always told the joke about helmets when he and my hubby use to ride....the difference between a helmet on a bike is the differance between an open or closed casket at your funeral...I know..sick, but seriously a helmet will save you...and a full face shield will keep the bugs out of your teeth
.
Safety is #1 so definately have the driver take the course, even if they've had one many years earlier, take it again.
It was fun to ride, but it is dangerous...so just do all your homework before you head out on the highway. I hope I didn't discourage you.
I bet your hubby was exstatic (sp?) when you called to tell him you want one...that's every man's dream!
Have fun shopping!