Welcome fellow Masshole! I live "way out west" where the tumbleweeds are. The idea of commuting downtown on a motorcycle kind of terrifies me. I commuted to Black Falcon Ave. in South Boston from Peabody back before the Big Dig, and oh my god I could feel myself becoming a more aggressive driver out of necessity. Maybe things are better now. Definitely wear plenty of armor! My friends think I'm crazy to commute up 495 but it's actually pretty chill compared to being on or inside 128. I've taken my bike to the Allston/Brighton bumper car zone a few times and it's lively, but kinda worth it for the parking advantage.
Once again, welcome to the site!