Before you seriously start looking at motorcycles, make sure that you have a general idea of the type of bike you are considering. With all of the different types and options that are on the market now, it's more difficult than just walking into a dealer and pointing at a bike. Whether you want a cruiser or a racing bike, there are a wide number of different options for you to consider, so make sure you've narrowed the field down beforehand.
Once you know what you are looking for, you can decide if you'd rather try to buy through a dealer or a private party. This is a big decision, and it can vary depending on what your needs are. If you're looking to finance a bike because you're not going to have enough up front, then a dealer is probably your best option. However, if you have money in hand to bargain with, you're going to be able to buy a bike for a lot less directly from another biker.
Be sure to inspect the bike before purchasing it. If you're getting it from a dealer, you can ask questions about the warranty coverage, and see what kind of guarantees they offer. If it's a reputable dealer, then you'll not have any problems. When buying from a private party, there are no guarantees, so you will want to be sure to have the motorcycle thoroughly inspected by a mechanic you trust. You also want to take it for a test drive.
Buying used does not have to be a scary or intimidating process. Just make sure you cover your bases, and before you know it, you'll be a successful used bike owner ready to hit the road.
