brakes

i noticed a few bikes with the abs option. would u guys recommend a bike like this for a beginning rider?  

ABS can improve stopping performance, if you know how to use it.  I believe that professional riders have demonstrated a decent decrease in the time required to stop, but you would have to practice with it to get the most out of it.  Unless you want to spend the extra bit of cash for ABS, you should be perfectly fine with normal brakes.  

Practice panic stops when you can, and in parking lots as long as there's no traffic around.  The more control you have over your braking, the better.  You can stop pretty *** quickly and still not skid if you hone your technique.  Oh yeah, and use both brakes!  Apply smooth and increasing pressure to both brakes, and you'll stop.  Just make sure you've straightened the bike before stopping.  I learned in the MSF that it is possible to straighten the bike out mid-turn and stop.  

I wouldnt recomend it, its basically for wet weather riding. it will add about $1000 to a bike.  

Most of the ABS-equipped bikes are at the higher end of the scale and tend to be of the sport-touring/GoldWing variety of bike. I can't think of a true sportbike w/ABS. Take the advice above, practice your panic stops in a vacant lot, and learn to modulate your front/rear braking youself---you'll be a better rider for it.