Norton, I didn't reply to this when the thread was in "full swing" becuase I had not started riding yet, but now I have. I am considerably smaller than you (5'8" at 175lbs) and I chose the Ninja 500R. Now, that's a sport bike and too small for you (physically speaking, not speed-wise). The bike fits ME perfectly, was used, and isn't so powerful that I do stupid things without even knowing I'm doing them.
I said all that to say this: Don't expect your first bike to be your last...OR...resign yourself now to riding a "beginner" bike forever. The reason I say this is because I am SO glad I got a bike that fit me well, was used, and was not super powerful. I learn every day, and that makes me a better rider, but I dropped the bike in my garage the FIRST day I had it. If it had been new, I would have felt really bad. As it was, I still felt bad, but was really glad that the first owner had already scuffed the spots that I re-scuffed.
One more thing. I agree with P95Carry, a cruiser will probably fit you well...BUT you should check REAL MPG results from owners before buying because I can't see how some of those big cruisers (or sport tourers) are very fuel efficient. My little Ninja gets 50 MPG.
Buy a bike that fits.
Buy used.
Buy a few years old.
Buy something that does what you want (good gas mileage).
Do NOT buy out of excitement or passion.