i have a 2003 vn 800 classic, i have had it sens new, i 10,200 miles on it, and i have had no problems at all, i am 6ยด 190,it sets comfy for me, i can flat foot on it,you might find the peg postion a little short,but all in all it has been a great machine.i am still onthe original tires and all running gear,the only thing i dont like about it is, the valves are not self adjusting,.but i think it would be a great first bike.it has plenty of power,and has good cornering,,,