I'm another 5ft 3 ish/ 40 something female and I thinks it's personal preference with bikes, but I really wouldn't instantly dismiss, or be put off by a big bike.
I've been riding on and off since I was 16 and passed my test ages ago now and I've had several big bikes and they arent as hard to handle as some suggest. In fact I think the weight can be an advantage.
One of my favourites was my old 1200 Bandit - yes its heavyish but very well balanced. I also rode my husbands FJR1300 (not my cup of tea at all but fantastic if you like touring)
I've had about 20 odd bikes since I've been riding and one I would suggest taking a look at is a Bandit 600 - you see plenty restricted and they are a nice bike to ride.
I know someone who had a restricted R1 for 2 years and she loved it.
I'd have a potter around some of the bike shops and sit on a few and see how you find them. The great thing about being a short middle aged woman is that most salesmen still dont take you seriously so assume you wont be buying a bike and dont give you any hassle;D ;D
