I read your line about not being in a cage. I just got back into biking after 25 years in cars. I recently rode my (new to me) R1100S home from London along the 401 surrounded by trucks, and I got that feeling in spades! Biking is most fun on twisty hilly roads anyway. Ride the scenic roads, and those less travelled. Its safer and a LOT more fun.
If you take anything away from the courses - always maximize your visibility, assume other drivers can't see you, do all your braking before corners, and especially NEVER TOUCH THE REAR BRAKE IN A CORNER.
Have a great time with it.