Start riding without MSF or not ride?

[Harlech]

Hi-

I'm interested in learning to ride a motorcycle. (Specifically the GZ250, which brings me to this forum.) Every forum and article online makes the MSF course seem essential to a new rider.

I would like to take the MSF course, but it is simply not an option for me. I live in HI, and there are no classes on this island. Taking the course would involve a plane ride and a (pricey) hotel stay, and possibly a car rental. That cost, along with motorcycle + safety gear would make learning to ride prohibitively expensive both in time and money.

I know an experienced rider who is also a car instructor who is willing to get me started, as well as loan me a few books/videos on motorcycle safety.

So my question is, should I go with the informal option or wait 2-3 years until I'm in a situation that allows me to take more formalized training?