We call those types of bikes "crotch rockets" here.
My husband and I ride. Well, let me rephrase that. I ride on the back.
We love it and it's a free feeling out there on a windy countryside road.
I grew up riding dirt bikes. Our family would camp every other weekend and take dirt bike rides that would last for hours. We loved every minute of it.
Worst fall I ever had was hitting a large hole and flying over the handle bars. Broke a couple ribs but I survived. (Thank goodness)
Our rule then and now is to ALWAYS wear a helmet, safe shoes, and pants never shorts or sandles.
I hope you decide to wear a helmet too Lindsey. My Dad's neice fell off the back of a bike a few years ago by a vehicle hitting the bike. She rubbed most her face off and has never been the same. She has had endless plastic surgery to try to restore her face. The helmet I use now has a full face sheild.
The dangers just go along with owning a bike just as do the pleasures. I am guessing that goes w/ any activity in life.
Enjoy your bike search and when you get one, please do post pictures. I think it's great you are following your passions.
