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You'll hear a lot of people say that it's the rider, not the bike, that gets in trouble, however, I'm sure that you can dig up some stats that show that sports bikes + young male rider = bad news. (Assuming that you're young.)

Yes, if you're very careful and have a good head on your shoulders, you can probably avoid getting into serious trouble, however, that does not mean that you know how to ride. Most people can't max out a 600, let alone a liter bike. Why? Because they're very powerful/fast machines, and your skill development can actually be stunted by getting onto something that is above your abilities.

Whether you want to believe it or not, when you have that much power on tap you WILL be tempted. Give into that without knowing what you're doing, and that's when you get into trouble. Anyone can twist the wrist, but how will you do under heavy braking, or into certain corners, etc. The course won't teach you everything.

My advice; buy a used, standard bike. You WILL drop it, so might as well get something that you plan on ditching in a year or so. Get something a bit smaller, like a 500. You'll learn how to really push (i.e.; ride) a bike. Plus, you'll be able to sell it for about the same amount in a year or so. I know a few people who started on 250s and when they moved up to 600s and liter bikes, they're killing everyone.

If you really, really, really want a sport bike, then go for it. But getting one because you think they're cool shouldn't be the #1 reason. Start on a starter bike, and you'll appreciate a sports bike once you make the move.

Oh, and don't buy into just wearing a leather jacket. IF you go down, it will most likely be a lowside, so your legs and feet will take a beating. At 60+ kph, jeans are pretty much skin.

Good luck!