A 1k budget means entry level bike, since helmet, shoes, and kit will take $300 easily. See if you can do 1.5k all in.

I grew up in the desert on MX. Then rode sportbikes for years and have owned over 2 dozen.

Sold the last one and never looked back after rediscovered similar "speed" and greater challenge on road bikes.

Watch out for cars.

Max out your uninsured motorist coverage.