Get into 2nd and accelerate hard, then close the throttle, let it slow and then accelerate hard again. If there's anything issues, it'll probably pop out of gear. As to the differences, it'll be a lot quicker but missing some low down power, it'll brake and handle much nicer too. Only issues though will be less miles to the gallon, and they're not good for pillion. Riding position is actually quite comfortable, or it is for me. That said, being 20 I find most things comfortable, although I do actuallyprefer sport bike dpositions, as upright bikes give me back ache. Once you get used to it you'll be able to hammer it hard, well worth getting the suspension set up as a minimum, and if you've the money I'd possibly go the whole hog and get your stock stuff revalved and springed for your weight and riding style. Would definitely think about a steering damper though, they're quite powerful and very little, and accelerating over bumpy ground will be a tad twitchy, to say the least0!