I live in Illinois, and I have always loved riding motorcycles, but now I think its time to step up my game and learn to ride my own.. the problem is, I don't know where to start?

Here in Virginia the local community colleges have a rider training program over the course of a weekend. Illinois looks to have something similar.

You will definitely want to take a MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. They have several in Illinois. Check out Motorcycle Safety Foundation and scroll down to your state.