hey dude, how are you going with your search for a bike and exemption?

my 2c worth... Gremlin has some good points... he has been there, done that to do with the exemptions....
as for a bike... the naked SV650 is not really a crusier, but a nice bike and not all sporty looking.... the v-twin engine is a 650, but is more forgiving and torquey... so not as likely to get you in the shit like a gsxr for example... its also got quite an upright seat position and high seat for taller people.... bit of a compromise till you get your full and can pick what you like.... they have also been around for a few years now so an older one might be in a good price range....
as for insurance... best thing to do is give Dave from kiwibike a call on 0800629253. If anything he is awesome to talk to about all the ins and outs of bike insurance, what you can and cant be insured for especially to do with the exemption.... he is a biker himself and very happy to help fellow bikers.
happy riding dude!