Hey CyclChyk--I took the class in November and bought my bike in December. I'm in the same situation as you--DH loves riding his motorcycle, but neither one of us wanted me riding on the back with him. But if he was going to ride as much as he wanted to, I was going to have to be involved somehow.

The class was great--an excellent way to find out whether you're even going to like riding your own bike. My main tip is to pay attention to your coaches--some of the instructions they give may sound counterintuitive, but they work! But probably the more important thing is to make sure you're rested up for the Saturday and Sunday classes--we were on those bikes most of the day, both days, and I was beat by the end. Also, don't be afraid of a little speed. There were a couple of women who dropped out of the class because they never could get themselves to move out of first gear. I don't think we went much past second gear, but certainly you've got to be able to go beyond first. And after you finish the class and get your bike, be prepared to spend lots of time riding around the neighborhood practicing starts and stops and turns.

And just for you, here's my embarrassing story: the first time we'd been on the bikes, then got off, I forgot to put the kickstand down and the bike fell over on me. The only thing that got hurt was my pride, but I sure did learn to put that @#$% kickstand down. The coach was cool--she said now I'd got that over with, the rest would be easy!

I had wanted the 883L Sportster also, but read some reviews that suggested it was top-heavy and therefore maybe not the best choice for new riders. On the showroom floor, I found it very comfortable, as far as height, handlebar reach, and placement of controls. And it sure is HOT! But in the end, I opted for a used Suzuki Intruder 800, which is very similar to the Harley in styling, but with lower center of gravity and ... several thousand dollars lighter in the price tag. OTOH, the Sportster might be just right for you. It might be just right for me, too, in a couple of years, but not yet.

Right now we're planning for my first big ride--to Thunder Beach in Panama City, FL.

Anyway, enjoy the class, and keep us posted on your progress and what bike you end up getting!