I feel your angst as I am also 6'5". BUT I also have a fused right ankle so wear a leg brace. That said, I have 2 bicycles custom built and the 2006 started touring Australia with one of them. 27 speeds and 26" wheels (PW hubs) with 48 spokes (!) front and back. I tour unsupported and now am planning one last trip this summer from Cairns to Cape York. The bicycles fit me well, but cost several thousand USD each.
That said, I have always "fancied" the bicycles built in India - so bought the largest one they made (24" frame) with a double bar between seat and head. Can't remember the name of that bar (cross bar maybe). Naturally, it has rod brakes! I did this when I visited the KW Cycles factory in Ludhiana, India. Got extra rims and an extra Brooks type seat. Two extra chains and the 28" tyres (!) too. All for maybe $80 USD. Web site is: "
Ludhiana,India,Punjab based manufacurer exporter of bb cups ,bicycle parts, punjab, ludhiana, manufacturers, exporters, export, directory, import, manufacturers, traders, companies,yellow pages, trading houses,database of indian products, firms, cons".
I have an old SA 3 speed hub and will lace up a wheel, put on the cables, shifter, etc, and see how it goes.
It will remind me of my old CCM with 28" wheels that I rode in the late 50s and early 60s 🤪