I expect a measure of heat on this one, but I appreciated the advice I received when I made the decision to ride.
I love the V-Max as well. I too considered it as my first bike. However, I have one friend and also a workmate who own a Max. Both of them counseled that this is not a bike for newb's. Therefore I opted to gain some experience on a bike that would assist the development of my skill.
15, 000 K's later, I sold my classic cruiser and finally got the bike I'd always wanted, and still have today.
With the max, there is lots to consider. The issue is not only the horsepower, but also the handling. Remember, this bike has literally been duplicated for 20+ years. They simply haven't changed. The suspension is very unforgiving. And while the bike is easy to ride in a straight line, there are occasions where one has to 'fight' this beast to commit in a corner.
Don't make the mistake and reason that even though the technology is old, it was good enough 23 years ago. The reality is, that back in 85 when they introduced this monster, it wasn't marketed as a beginner bike...it was marketed as a bike that pushed the envelope...and that it did.
One has to realize that this bike needs to be 'massaged' by someone who has already developed the skill to make it go where HE wants it to go, not where IT wants to go. You will attain these skills on a bike designed to be more responsive to your direction, and less responsive to your mistakes.
Just my .02.