Sub 3 second 0-60 mph times with a rider who can shift like a pro...definitiely get you in over your head fast if you're new to the sport. That's a bike that very good riders consider "squirrely" and a bit of a beast.
My neighbor has an older Yamaha Fazer 700 ('86 I think...) which I think bears a passing resemblence to a V-Max, but in a much more forgiving size and power output...it's got some balls, don't get me wrong, just a lot better pick for a beginner IMO....good luck with whatever you get, take the MSF and ride safe!