For sure take the safety course, it could save your life.
I would really recommend a Ninja 500, Gs500, a SV650, or a older 600. like others have said, you will make a mistake, the difference from a beginner friendly bike and a super sport could be the difference from a good learning experience to laying in the hospital or worse. Also it is a good idea to buy somethign cheap and used, most new riders drop their bike at some point, do you really want to drop that $7,000 bike? If you buy something used and beginner friendly you will more then likely be able to sell it for the same or very little less then you bought it for. I bought a 94 Honda CBR 600F2 and have had multiple offers of 500 or more then what I paid for it.
Also, don't forget gear. Helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, and boots. denim will not hold up to sliding across pavement.
sportbikes.net is another good site.
Sign up, post in the new rider forum, and read these threads
Want a 600? Read This! - Sportbikes.net
reasons to start small - Sportbikes.net
Tips on how to be safe and stay alive. - Sportbikes.net
If you start small you can ride the bike to the end of its abilities, and not yours, and you will be a much better rider in the long run.