I didn't read any post before this, but here's my info:

I started on a Katana (do not do this)... It's extremely HEAVY!!

I then progressed to an R6... Loved it. It's lite and handles great... I am only 120 lbs, was 115 when I was riding (by the way I don't ride anymore because I have a kid AND I wrecked the bike due to a patch of gravel on the interstate!! Flipped the bike.. got some road rash, broke a couple of ribs, etc.)

Anywho, people don't pay attention to bikes... It's like they see you and they apparently don't think you are going the speed you are... Be safe, curteous, and remember, you have NO protection so don't act like a fool - don't pull out in front of cars because you think you can get up to speed quick, it's easy to miss a gear or for something to run out in front of you... Just be smart.