What's a good starter cruiser?

I'm 5' 8" and 200lbs and have only ridden for a couple of months on borrowed bikes. I definitely want a cruiser, but don't want to jump into a 1700cc bike and be uncomfortable riding it in any aspect whatsoever.

I've been given suggestions to start small 30 to 50 ci, but I feel that after riding an Virago 1100 along-side my uncles vtx1800 down the interstate that any group riding for a substantial distance is going to be a bother.

I would appreciate suggestions on a mid-sized cruiser that won't have too much of a problem keeping up with the "big boys" that my uncles ride(all 1500+).

Anyone know of the perfect starter bike out there that's comfy stretching it's legs for a while, i.e. not whining @ 70+, but still can be considered a "starter"?

Consider the 750 Shadow or something in that size range. Anything smaller and you will be bored with it and your abilities will outgrow it very quickly.

A 750cc bike can run on the interstate with the big boys, and still have plenty of power. You will notice that most 750s are really 749cc or 748cc engines, since insurance costs jump with bikes over 750cc's.

You won't have problems with a Honda, Kaw, Yamaha, or Suzuki - they all make quality motorcycles. My preference is Honda, but the others are good too.

Trust me you'd be able to handle a suzuki katana or honda rebel.

Problem is there are no starter cruisers that have power.

Get a bike like a suzuki katana used. Excellent sport bike but a touring style. You need weight for freeways.

Problem is starter cruisers are only 250cc

As a rule you want 600cc or more for freeways
For streets even 250cc is fine

V star 1100 or 650 , but try a v star great bike and fast !

I would say the Honda Shadow or the Yamaha V-star if your looking Japanese and on a budget.
Other wise a dyna Glyde or even a 1200 custom Harley isn't a bad choice either.
If I had to choose again I would go with the Honda Shadow.
Not real happy with the v-star as Ive heard the are shot at around 30k and I have 15k on mine in less than a year. 650 to 750 cc is plenty of power and not too much also both bikes sit nice and low and are comfortable.

The Honda Shadows are great, the Suzuki Boulevards are great, and both great starter bikes. I have no experience with the Kawasaki or Star(Yamaha) cruisers. I went with the Boulevard for my bike for the simple reason of the package deal on the windshield and bags, plus I prefer dual pipes over the 2 into 1 of the Shadows.
I ride with Road Stars, Softail classics, dynas, etc when I ride and never had any problem keeping up with the 1400cc bikes.

The Honda Shadow 750
The Yamaha V Star 650

stay away from the Suzuki Boulevards C50-M50-S50
they are junk and I should know cause I own an M50

you don't need a bigger 1100 cc or bigger cruiser bike, the smaller mid size cruisers have no problem at any highway speed and they get better gas mileage
the large cruisers are just as hard on gas as a car with a V6 and with the small gas tanks you will have to stop for gas at every 60 to 80 miles, and with gas prices approaching $4 a gallon you will be glad you did buy a smaller cruiser.

the Honda Shadow or the Rebel both are good starter bikes go with anything up to a 500cc