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7 Years ago I spent all my money and spent $1400 on a 1994 CBR600 F2. The only gear I had was the free helmet HJC that came free with the bike which was 1 maybe 2 sizes too big, and some cheap AGV gloves. The bike was more than fast enough to have fun, but manageable. I ended up crashing it not even using it's power, but taking a blind corner too fast and hitting a patch of sand and low siding it. I walked away with just a bruised knee. I lacked experience.
If I had to do it again, I could and probably would go with a similar bike, or even step down to a 500cc. The bike was more than enough fun. Sure it looked a little dated, but it still looks good. It's your first but certainly not your last bike. I got lucky with my crash and it taught(scared) me to spend more money on gear.
I've dropped my bike 2 other times while not even acting stupid. Once moving it around in the garage while sitting on it, and the other turning onto a street going 2mph. Noth times just losing balance from lack of speed.
Also, all the people worth riding with will wait for you at the next turn off. Ride your own ride and you'll enjoy the sport longer. This is coming from a guy that usually rides last of the group and prefers it.