My $.02 I think you can learn more on a slow bike that handles well. Power can make anything faster, but it covers up what could be missing in technique, skill, etc. I've had lots of bikes The ones that I learned the most on were a Bandit 400 (45hp), Buell XB9S (75 Hp), and my just sold Gladius 650 (70 hp). While riding with the 'fast guys'...I learned to be smoother & carry more corner entry speed...I certainly wasn't going to catch anyone on the throttle I just sold the Gladius because I was riding it at the limits of the motor and the (heavily modded) suspension. Learn to ride the wheels off the Hawk and you will be a better rider when you upgrade. Oh...and when you ride with 'fast guys' be sure to pick their brain at gas stops.