Hey master,

1.  If I recall, the piece of paper you receive after you pass the written test acts as the learner's permit (I would call the registry just to confirm).

2.  You don't have to take a course (other than write the test) to get a learner's permit although it's highly recommended that you check out and take a motorcycle training course (see here) before taking the class 6 test.

3.  It's possible to get a bike and insure it without a class 6 license (see here).

4.  Recommending a good starter bike is not easy.  I would, however, recommend against a sports bike.  My first was a Kawasaki KLR650 and if you feel comfortable enough sitting on one (they're pretty high bikes), you should definitely consider it as a first bike.

5.  Brand doesn't matter.  I could be wrong but I tend to hear that japanese bikes are the most reliable.  Don't take my word for it though.  I've had no issues with both of mine (Kawasaki and Honda).