Kawasaki Dilemma! please help?

[Kyle R]

I know that this question has been thrown around alot but i need more definite answers. I want a reasonably fast bike for 5-6k. I feel that a ninja 250r will be too slow and i know that with a brand new zx6r id most like end up dead. so any suggestions? I don't like he 650r because of the under slung exhaust, looks tacky from the other side of the bike, and i also don't like the fairing. The er6n is alright but isn't available in the US. Also the versys is nice but not available in california. please help. Im brand new to riding with almost no exp., plan to take a msf course, and I am 6' 190lbs. I travel to school and back about 25 min on the freeway, and then another 10 stop and go.