I'm thinking your source may have the Savage confused with another MC.
#1 As others have pointed out, low speeds are fine with the savage (easy even).
#2 Compared to a sport tourer, the Savage is several orders of magnitude easier to manuever at low (parking lot) speeds. It turns practically on a dime, and weighs very little and it's weight is carried low (one of the few advantages of a small gas tank). One difficulty with any cruiser is the forward position of the foot pegs, they make it really tough to get out of the seat, or to shift load to the foot pegs while manuevering.
#3 Fit is a extremely subjective topic. I consider the Savage uncomfortable for long trips, but it does fine for shorter trips. If you are under/over average height you may end up doing some modifications to change the fit of almost any MC.
If you haven't taken a MSF course - take one. The course I took had a choice of standard, dual purpose and cruiser position MC's. I was able to ride all three types during the course, I liked the dual purpose riding position better, but my height dictated that a cruiser was a better starter MC.
Good luck with your choice.
J_Stewart wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:05:I'm considering an s/40 for my first bike. Several questions.
#1, I've heard that the first gear is very tall and requries riding the clutch as speeds less than 10 mph.
#2, I've heard that these bikes are not good at slow speeds and don't swerve well.
#3, I'm 5'11" and weigh 220lbs. Is this bike too small?
I'm not looking for anything overly powerful. I like simple, manuverable vehicles. From what I've read, it seems the s/40 would fit the bill.
Thanks