In order of MOST importance;
Sticky Tires
suspension upgrades
upgraded brakes
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It will handle just fine, especially if you're new. Even though it's a big bike, it still takes a lot to get it over enough to start scraping fairings. For you're 1st time, just go in the beginner class. If you're fast enough, they may kick you out and upgrade you to intermediate.
Make sure your brakes have plenty of pad, and have the fluid flushed and replaced before hand. Get your suspension set up before you go, if stock, take ALL THE WAY to hard settings on shock and top (compression, needes wrench) of fork. For right now, set up rebound and pitch (uses flat head screw driver) about 3-4 clicks from full hard.
(if you haven't flushed/replaced your fork fluid and it's been more than 2 years, now would be a good time to do it before you go)
You'll have fun, but be prepared. You want the bike running top notch when you get there. You'll have to take the mirrors off, and duct tape the lights (and disconnect them). Other than that, have a blast. It will single handedly lift you to a much higher competence level than any thing else, no matter how many years you've been riding.
