mcharley94, since you are going to be trying things out, and you indicated an interest in a serous combination of gears rather than some simplified scheme for the mechanically inept, I would suggest you compare the bar end shifters and the rotating ones - I suspect a big guy like you is going to prefer the bar ends- I have large hands and the rotating shifters are a real nuisance, the bar ends can be easily shifted back and forth, with the thumb and index finger ... and although you didn't mention your weight , at that height you can't be too light so look for a stiff frame. Also, consider the size of the rear wheel, despite what some geniuses here will tell you, a larger wheel on the back will give you more speed! I just converted my wife's Trail to a 26 rear with narrower tires and now she flies!But the cost of upgrades can really put a dent in your budget and leave you with a lot of useless spare parts. So try both 20 and 26 rear wheels and try to decide from the beginning.
For what free advice is worth, try the Catrike Expedition - it's much more suited to your size and already has a pretty good set up of gears right from the start. Whatever you choose , Enjoy!