I like the thought on your first bike choice, I am very impressed with the new Honda from first sight, true you might want for more steam once you are ready to venture out on superhighways or ride two up, possibly if you start riding with lots of others that are into go fast sport bikes, but I seriously can’t see anyone getting bored riding a sweet bike like that real fast. Honda singles are typically near indestructible if you maintain them well, you really don’t need to be afraid to ring the snot out of it and a 250 ridden close to it’s limit will impress way more than a hyper sport being ridden at 10%. Singles are great bikes to learn to self service too, order the factory service manuals at the same time you buy the bike if you are the least bit mechanical or interested, you will never loose money on manuals if you keep them with the bike forever.
I can’t over stress the importance of finding a riding partner, it keeps you motivated and you learn from their success and failures as well as yours. Easier to meet up with people once you actually have a ride and if finances and location allow for it, dirt bike experience will always be the best way to learn the basics. There is nothing wrong with having a leg up on riding skills before you sign up for the MSC.
…Madjaks site was easy to find, just google ‘Alberta motorcycle forum’ lol he’s addicted.