John,

Please don't overlook the importance of the board. In my opinion, its more important than the kite, especially for a begginer. You are a moderately big guy (compared to me, anyway).
I would consider not getting anything smaller than a 140 by 42 to start with. (May be even a little bigger, like something 44cms wide). It will speed your learning curve drastically and we ALWAYS need light wind boards in FL.

I honestly believe at your size that a 12 or 14m Contra coupled with a board like a Glide and also something like a 137 by 40-41 could cover 10 to 23 knots.

I have been using the 12m Contra in 10 to 22 with no problem with the use of a Glide and another board.