stay away from the blast. the bike is perfect to learn on (MSF course). anything beyond that its not worth it. ive seen guys Try to ride them on the freeway and it aint happening. also they are plauged with mechanical problems what ive seen. google it and see for your self.
by no means am i saying go out and buy something fast, ill be the first to say 'get old and slow'. just the Blast from what ive seen isnt worth buying.
if you want a sports bike look for the ninja EX500, they are pricey used though. however they hold their value, ride it a year and dont put To much damage on it and sell it for what you paid.
also check out the suzuki katana(my current bike). its a decent enough beginner bike(its heavy) but ive been riding some 5 years and love mine. its a great all around 'sporty' bike thats not designed as a race replica. you can find pre98 models for cheap, if they have been taken care of they are capable of very high mileage.