CB1100 as first bike?

[Robo_imp]

I think it's doable, but you have to be really sensible about it. It could be pretty hard to avoid dropping such a heavy bike if you haven't been accustomed to motorcycles in general.
My first bike was very tiny and light, but it felt slightly heavy to me at the time.

Also, you can get in over your head, make a noob mistake and take a spill on a lot less bike than this (I know that firsthand!!)

All that said, it is as I've said from the day I got this bike.. go easy on the throttle and it will go easy on you.

No matter which way you go, take an MSF course and any other training that you can get. Also I recommend that you read Proficient Motorcycling, and then keep it for reference and re-read it once in a while. Find a good riding buddy or two who can be patient with you at first and help you grow into it. May be good to stay away from larger group rides until you're really comfortable

That's just my two cents!

I am a returning rider as well after about 20 years off. My skills are slowly but surely returning. I took your advice and ordered the Proficient Motorcycling and the timing couldn't be better as my confidence is returning as well! I am really enjoying the book and I am sure to pick up some new skills!