I ride motorcycle all year long and don't even drive a car anymore. No Harley, but I have a Ducati Monster and a Suzuki GSX-R750. If you aren't dead set on a Harley, look into sports bikes too.
Check out Team Oregon. They have classes that allow you to practice on their bikes, so you don't have to risk your own. It's also required by the state that you take the Basic Rider Training class from them before you can get your endorsement.
Feel free to ask questions. I'm sure we have a few Harley riders on here too.
Here are my bikes: