I'd say it's a bit big and heavy for a beginner, but if you want a benelli and you want a cruiser, it's what's available. The engine is the same one in the Leoncino and TRK502, which means it's got a lot of low down torque, a great midrange, and an unfortunately strangled top end. New headers and an ECU flash will fix that if you have the time and money and inclination.
Charles.