Katana's are old Technology.. If you think they are fast you should ride some of the new Race Reps!
I personally don't like RaceRep bikes for the street. I'm a fan of naked bikes. They just seem more industrial. I personally don't know why you would buy a race bike to ride on the street when you can get a sporty naked bike and get sportiness and comfort mixed into on.
For a starter bike I would look into something with no fairings, like a Ninja 500R, GS500, Sv650, etc. Learn to ride it then step up to something else. They are usually cheaper to buy, and there is less to replace if/when you drop it.