Defenitely not a beginner bike. Maybe a 2000 GSXR 750 would be a starter bike but every year these bikes become even more advanced, more powerful, yet lighter. I started out with a GSXR 600 without ever riding before and yes, at times it was a bit overwhelming. Most because of the weight at the time. I would recommend you start out w/ a 600. The GSXR 600 is a terrific bike and has even more after market parts available than the 750 at the moment. Check out TwoBrothersRacing.com for the cool exhaust. If not look at the Yamaha R6, great engine high rev limit and also cool exhaust options already, check out Akrapovic-exhaust.com but this bike seems over priced for a 600. As far as a commuter bike, this new model is much more rider friendly than previous models. I purchased a new 750 3 weeks ago and have never felt the pain I used to feel in my old GSXR 600 in the wrists or back. Start out on a 600,master it, love it, and then when you´re ready move on to a 750 or a 1000, there should be some really cool models in the next 2 to 3 years. Be careful