socal newbie

Hello All,

I am a soon to be newbie rider. I live in California. I do not currently have a motorcycle but would like to get a cruiser. I am 6'5" 260lbs. I want to get a cruiser for under 3000 if possible that way I can gain some experience and than get the bike I really want which is a Harley Davidson road glide.

Any thoughts on a cruiser I should get now, i'm looking to buy one in the next few months. I was leaning towards a Kawasaki Vulcan 900 or a Yamaha Vstar 650. I have sat on the Yamaha V-star and feel pretty good about it but would probably have to change the shocks for my weight and maybe the bars and foot board.

I plan on getting my permit next week. I will be attending the Harley Davidson course. Any thoughts on a good to great starter bike? Can I find one under 3000?

I have tried on a full face Harley Davidson helmet and it felt great. Any thoughts on modular helmets?