My first bike was my 600RR, and it took some getting used to. Not everyone is the same though, and learning patterns are different. I agreee that it's probably better to get a smaller bike and work your way up, but if you've got discipline, and self control, a bigger bike can be a learner bike just as easily. Unfortunately, that's almost never the case. I was always in the frame of mind that told me to RESPECT the bike, and be very cautious, so I've been fortunate. That doesn't mean I don't have fun every now and then, but I'm pretty safe when I do it. My only piece of advice is this...GO TO THE MSF COURSE. It was the best thing I ever did, that's for damn sure.