Originally posted by DasoGTI
Like track3000 listed. Those are pretty good bikes to begin learning on. The best bike to learn on in my opinion are those little 500's. I know they're not the greatest or the fastest or the best looking out there. But they're great to learn on, not to expensive. Otherwise, I would go for a 600. The kawasaki and the honda are probably the nicest bikes for the beginners.
One thing for certain, before you go out and spend alot on a bike, spend some cash on protective equipment. Get a less expensive bike if you have to. A good helmet, leathers, gloves, boots, backprotector. And wear them everytime you go out! I know too many people that crashed without the equipment, and their injuries could have been easily avoided.
Proper training is also important. Take a class, ride with someone who knows how to ride, pratice in a big parking lot with cones, pratice emergency manuvers... all those can save you. Also get rid of the ego that says you can go fast. THe bike might be able to, but that doesn't mean you're ready for it. Strait line speed, anyone can do. If something happens, would you know what to do?
That's my advice.