What is the best motorcycle for a first timer?

After owning six motorcycles and NOT starting with one for a first timer I feel qualified to answer. First timer motorcycle owners need something SAFE to ride while making the usual mistakes. Do NOT get a very heavy large Harley or other cruiser. Do NOT get the very tall off road dual sport. Do NOT get a very old used two stroke that will constantly break down frustrating you. My suggestion for a bike to learn on, have fun on and sell for nearly what you paid for it would be a smaller dual sport. Honda, Suzuki. Yamaha and Kawasaki all make a 250cc (or close, some are 230cc) that are light weight, electric start, easy to start, stop, turn and will not be significantly damaged if (when) you drop it. You could start with a scooter / moped. These are OK but one thing motorcycle owners need to know is how to shift gears. Most scooters are automatics.