2008 Ducati Monster 696?

[thesoggycow]

Is this a good beginners bike?
I've never ridden a motorbike like this in my life and don't want the learning curve to be so steep I die.
If you have any better suggestions please jot them down.
I need a bike to grow with.
It will only be used about 4-5 months out of the year for trips around town and on the twisty roads around here.
I want something kinda sporty...