New from TX - On the Outside Looking In...for now.

Hello all,

I'm a 36yr old resident of North Dallas looking to start riding to help save on gas and engage in a new enjoyable hobby. I've been reading a lot of content on this site the last few days and finally decided to throw my hat (don't own a helmet yet) into the ring. I moved to TX a couple of years ago, had lived in the Bay Area in Martinez, CA for about 30 years before that. I find TX roads a little more roomy than in CA so I'm much more comfortable picking up motorcycle riding here than there. That's not to say there is a shortage of inattentive and inconsiderate drivers in TX, if fact, I think there are more here than in CA!
I signed up for my MSF class later this month and will probably buy a bike shortly thereafter. I've read a LOT of content here about 250 vs 500 or 600cc. Fortunately, I'm tied down by a number of factors: skill level (0 right now), style I prefer (cruisers all the way!), and of course...budget, budget, BUDGET!
At the moment, I'm looking at three models for a future purchase (although I'm willing to listen to suggestions by fellow members here): Honda Rebel, Honda Nighthawk and Yamaha Virago (V-Star 250). I hope to learn a lot from Ben and the other members.