I would recommend getting a DOT approved helmet which you can find at most motorcycle shops and even walmart
for a bike I would go with something that will maneuver well and not be too heavy, I would test drive a sportster to see if you like it at first otherwise you will be stuck with a bike that makes you uncomfortable to ride.
I started riding when I was 16 and I got a 1996 Yamaha Virago 535
it's a great bike I would recommend it if you are interested in a road bike style rather than a crotch rocket.
It looks basically like a small harley but obviously a yamaha. With some pipes added on it sounds real nice, rather than the original muffler.
http://www.bikez.com/pictures/yamaha/1996/1351_0_1_2_xv%20535%20virago_Submitted%20**%20anon ymous%20user..jpg
if you notice the black piece just in front of the rear wheel that is the muffler and one of the pipes is just for decoration with the stock setup
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