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I've never ridden a bike in my life, but recently the idea has grown on me and I'm ready to take the plunge. I'm a big bloke, 6 feet 5 tall and about 120kg. At 34 I'm not interested in breaking speed records, just looking for a comfortable cruiser. I'm set to do my riding course in the next month and had decided on purchasing the Yamaha xvs 650 Classic as I think it looks fantastic and appears to rate well in reviews. It is also the largest legal cruiser I can get on a new license, but I have 2 main concerns before I say goodbye to my cash.

1/ How do I know if I fit it properly, mainly in regard to legroom? I sat on a demo at the local dealer and I felt like my lower legs were very upright, almost vertical, is this the norm? I'm really only used to driving a car where my feet are a bit more in front of me and I expected a similar feel, but am I wrong and is this the correct position for riding a cruiser?

2/ Is this bike too big for a 'newbie' to learn on? I've read that many people drop their first bike when learning and I don't want to be up for big repair costs because I started on a bike that was beyond me.

I would appreciate hearing from any other 'big guys' out there who may have an xvs 650 to see how they have found it.

I think the 650 is an ok first bike. Other than a few parking lot sessions in class on their 250 Honda, I did all my road learning on the Yamaha 650 Classic. If a person is careful, there is no reason you will drop it. I never did.

As for fit, only you can determine if it is right for you. I sat on a lot of bikes before I ever found my Yamaha. As soon as I sat on it, I knew it was the one for me. I was not comfortable with the sport bike position where your feet are down behind you nor did I find the standard position of feet straight down good for me. I like the forward controls.
I have an inseam of about 33 and I have found this bike to be a comfortable fit for me.
You need to sit on several styles to determine your best fit.

6.5' you might not be too comfortable with V-Star (XVS 650) but then again for the size matter 650 classic or custom are about the same size as any bigger bike.

I think you should try to sit on a lot of bike not only just cruiser but dual sport or standard as well.

Regarding to newbie with V-star, I believe V-Star is really great for beginner as well as experience rider. I really enjoy my v-star since day one and up until now (feel the need of bigger bike now and then, thou LOL). If you really afraid of dropping you can get a used one which cost you a lot less for your first bike.