KC, Sourdough has the answer. Get a bike and go yourself (or with a club). There are all sorts of good bikes out there in the $1000-$2000 range. Put a windshield on it, and your all set. For learning, most states have some sort of motorcycle course. As for clubs, well there is the AMA. (American Motorcycle Assoican) They have road ridding clubs. You will see all sorts of Harleys, Hondas, Yamahas, etc. all rigged for long distance riding.

BTW here in northen California, I have seen Goldwings going for well under $3,000. Ok, so they are a few years old, but they are still comfortable. Look for an 1100 in a used Goldwing. The 1200 seems to have some generator problem that pops up from time to time.

BTW, my Wife Cathy, has a Honda Shadow, with windshild and leather saddle bags. It's 600cc and puts along just fine. It looks like a Harly that got wet and shrunk.

BMW's can be a good buy too. They seem to hold their value. And you have to respect someone that puts a six digit odometer on their bike. (roll that one over...dude.)

-Fadac