What's a good starter motorcycle?

I've rode dirtbikes since I was 5 and I just realized I turn 16 in 20 days. So I worked all summer to get a car but f*** a car, is rather get a bike. I have about $2000 that I want to put toward a motorcycle. I really want something lower in cc like around 250cc. I want name brand no Chinese junk. I wanted a something like a cbr or a ninja but my parents say it's a death trap. So what we narrowed it down to is the honda shadow style bikes. What are some other bikes like that?

You've ridden dirtbikes since you were 5? Awesome!

I agree with your parents. Plus, you won't be able to get a really fast bike with that cash anyway. But you said you've ridden bikes since a young age so I think you'll be good with a honda bike. Here are some good beginner bikes for ya that aren't too expensive. Check em out!

http://rideapart.com/2013/07/the-best-motorcycles-for-new-riders/

I would go with this one if I were you! It's freakin awesome!
http://motorcycles.rideapart.com/l/1427/2013-Honda-CBR500R-ABS

A moped

You can get a Harley 500 or 750, which are the new small Harley bikes. They have been getting excellent reviews. They are pretty small, compared to Harley's big cruiser bikes. I think they weigh around 400-425 or so. Stop by your Harley dealer and take a look at them. They are very light and very manueverable, but with the Harley reputation and warranty. They start at about $6900, so with $2000 down, you could be driving a brand new bike.