Ever dream of buying a Harley? Ever thought about what kind? There's a lot to take into account before you can get that first bug in your teeth, but Eva Hawkins, vehicle sales representative for Uke's Harley-Davidson and owner of two Harleys (a 1996 Heritage Softail and a 2001 Dyna Low Rider), breaks it all down.

Experience. According to Hawkins, the experience level of the rider is one of the most important aspects to consider. Many new riders feel more comfortable on a smaller bike, like a Sportster, but not all. It depends on the size and comfort level of the rider.

Uke's offers motorcycle safety classes for beginners. The class, called Rider's Edge, is Harley-Davidson endorsed and graduates of the five-day program become legal riders. The classes run from April until October, meeting Thursday, Friday and Monday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The price is $349 and participants must attend all of the classes.

Distance. Whether you plan to ride to and from work or take long, grueling road trips, you want to get the right bike for your travel agenda. Point-A-to-point-B riders, according to Hawkins, might look at something like a Softail, Sportster or a bike in the Dyna line whereas those planning longer trips will probably choose a heftier model, like a Road King, Classic or Ultra-Classic.

Price. Harley prices range from $6,000 to $22,000. If you have the extra cash to spend, there is an 800-page catalog packed with options and accessories for your new Harley including paint sets, exhaust systems, sound systems and chrome, chrome, chrome.

Uke's offers standard financing, with 10 percent down and seven-year terms with no pre-paid penalty.

Fit. It's extremely important the rider, and his or her passenger, is comfortable. Uke's offers a rental program allowing potential buyers to try out different styles of bikes before they make a decision.

Availability. Hawkins, who started riding 15 years ago because she was "tired of being a passenger," says it's a great time to buy a Harley because they are at the end of the model year and a lot of styles are available, so now may be time to finally bring your hog dream to fruition.

Uke's is Wisconsin's oldest Harley-Davidson dealership, established in 1930, and is located in Kenosha, 30 miles south of Milwaukee. For more information about buying a Harley or to check out Uke's weeklong anniversary events, go to www.ukeshd.com.