Costs of starting up?

[gcaster]

I'm considering starting riding at some point but would like to know the cost of what I'll likely need before taking the plunge.

I've had a full car license for 7 years now so shouldn't be too difficult learning. I'll be learning with a mate of mine, likely on a scheduled course with a test at the end (apparently he saw them going at 2 for 1 during winter???).
Ignoring the cost of the bike and actually taking a course, what do I need to get going. I fear insurance is going to be the killer, we went and had a look at a few Hondas today and insurance for me on a Honda CBR500R at the moment has come out at £1300 with a £750 excess which seems ridiculous, the bikes are only £5k!

Any help/advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks
Greg

 

[gcaster]

Thanks for the responses guys, looking into it further TPFT drops the quote by about half which is a relief!

Bike aside, how much is it worth setting aside for clothing, boots, helmet and any other extras that I may want/need?