If you can learn (or already do) dig the looks, dual sports and supermotos are the most fun you can have in the city. IMHO, supermotos are the perfect non-touring bike for a tall guy (I’m 6’4″, so I have a bit of an idea where you’re coming from). I’m a huge fan of my DR-Z400sm (to be clear, the photo is NOT me):
Another FANTASTIC option is the 250cc Yamaha WR250x (even has fuel injection):
If you want to go on long rides (multiple hours), ditch the supermoto option. Supermoto seats are narrow and together with the single cylinder, you’re butt will be sore at the end of a hundred miles. I routinely ride mine for over an hour, but other people don’t seem to find it as easy to do.
There are still plenty of dual sports that are great for long-range touring. The downside is that they go way up in price and they’re MUCH heavier and have a lot more power and more difficult handling. That said, check out bikes like the Kawi Versys:
and the Suzuki V-Strom:
Honestly, if you can man up, I think you’ll have the most fun on the Yamaha or the Suzuki supermotos. You WILL NOT fit on the Japanese 250cc cruisers. Trust me on this. I took my MSF class on them back in the day and I didn’t fit at all. I mean, go sit on them just for kicks, but unless all your height is above your waist, there’s not much chance that you’ll make those bikes work.
Well, good luck, and let us know how things go!