Just do it Sand_Man! Make sure you taking a riding class and take your time to LEARN/KNOW your bike. When I first got a street bike I rode it when there wasn't much traffic out and on normally not very busy roads. Now I wouldn't hesitate riding anywhere, it's just that I like to ride when and where there isn't a ton of traffic.
Here are some more pics of my Duc:
That vintage Duc that Sarc posted is VERY sweet too!