Its a good bike, but you'll outgrow it quickly. A Kawasaki ZX6E or ZZR600 (which are the same bike 1994 to 2004, dont get the 05) is an excellant bike that you could learn on, then continue to ride. Its moderately fast when you want it to be, and very comfortable to ride. And its not expensive either.
Thats my ZX6E on the right, its an 02 model, had 3300 miles on it.. picked it up for $4800
and here is one on Craig's list for $1700
http://lasvegas.craigslist.org/mcy/70286543.html
You can find good deals on them, and they are excellant bikes