Motorcycle for short travels , Advice needed?

First, take the Motorcycle Safety Course and get a motorcycle license ... This will also give you some experience with a variety of small bikes (250cc) by various manufacturers..... Decide which "brand" you prefer, and search on Craigslist and eBay......There are used bikes everywhere, and in this "bad" economy, many people are selling their "toys' cheap.... a 400cc bike is good for commutes and short (weekend) trips, although just marginal for interstate usage...