If you are thinking about a cruiser style bike let me recommend the Suzuki Volusia or Boulevard C50 as it is called now. I have an '04 and it is the best bike I have had.
You can look here for more information on the Volusia, Volusia Riders Board.
Awesome bike, so much better than a V-STAR 650. I have one and can not tell you the number of compliments I get on it.
If you like Crotch Rockets, then the Ninja, Gixxer, CBR, etc. are all good. I myself prefer the more laid back approach of the cruiser.
But to each his own!
Good luck whatever you choose, and definately get some good gear, and take a class!
-BR