I'm not trying to be ignorant, but you can't use DJ Kale (RIP) as an example. He was drinking and therefore, that cannot be used to persuade anyone to not get the R1; the same could happen on any bike (hell, a bicycle).

I'm definitely listening and comprehending everyone's suggestions. I went to a local shop today to look at the 07 R1 and R6. I love both bikes and yes I've ridden before but I'm definitely a beginner. Even so, with my understanding that the R1 has almost twice the displacement of the R6 and more horses than my car, I keep saying to myself that I should get what I want to get which I'm leaning toward the R1; the only reason I'm even considering the R1 is because I feel I could control myself and the RPMs low until I gain experience on the bike. I'm not the kind of person to disregard the bikes performance and "think" I know how to handle it. I definitely want to be a safe, respected rider and learn more and more with the R1.

Do you guys really think I should just forget about the R1 and stick to the R6? I've heard several people tell me that they started on an R1 and did fine. Is the risk worth it for an intelligent person? They are both extremely fast and both require control and maturity. If I'm going to take the chance of getting an R6, why not take the chance of getting an R1 if they both require extreme control and maturity?

Please don't get me wrong; I'm not fighting your opinions. I just want the straight facts and I want my point to be considered if it makes sense.

Thanks again guys for your continued help in my decision. Hopefully soon I'll be riding with the locals.