Similar topic a while ago:
http://www.conquerclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=3665752#p3665752If you're just starting out, pretty much like BBS said, although don't be afraid to start off with moderate CCs. You have to learn to respect the power and be comfortable with any situation. I started street riding on a 1000, maybe that's a steep learning curve but I know full well what I should and should not be doing.
I'd say start off with something that's a little beat up and lightweight; chances are, if you're just starting out, you'll drop it a few times and picking them up is a pain (never dropped a street bike yet on my own but a few close calls). Actually that vt400 would probably be pretty sweet to learn on. Probably the highest accident rates are middle aged guys who've never ridden and start riding on a huge touring bike that turns like a boat. Don't do that.
Full face helmet for sure.
K, every rider ever will probably tell you this, but it's important: you're most likely going to lay it down at some point. I've only known one person who hasn't had an accident of some kind in normal street riding, and he's sort of the exception that proves the rule. Car drivers
will not see you, so get used to it and prepare accordingly.
Good luck to you.
-TG