I agree with Crompsin in that if you want to do long stretches don't go for a sports bike... it'll kill your wrists and back. I wouldn't recommended a cruiser though, just because they're quite heavy for a first bike. Also, I prefer a more nimble bike for carving up twisties! You can find an enduro/dual-sport style bike with plenty of power to make you grin, with a nice comfy position for long rides. It also means you can explore any dirt roads you may pass that look interesting.
Or something like an Suzuki SV650 that's comfy and kinda sporty. It all depends on what kinda riding you see yourself doing.
Oh, and I'd avoid your mate's bike like the plague...