Some very cool cheap bikes to look for: Yamaha xj600 Seca II. I had one for a season, comfy upright riding position, decent but not overwhelming power (60 hp), good handling characteristics, air cooled motor, easy to work on and 45mpg. Anything from the honda cb line. Suzuki gs 550, Kaw kz650....pretty much any jap standard from the 70's or 80's are great starter bikes. Not too much power, comfortable, easy to work on and cheap.