Great bikes and no reason why they should be ridden like they were racing. I commute and fart around on a 1000cc sport tourer that some folks see as a crotch rocket with bags. But I get passed all the time by guys on “slower” Harley’s looking all “laid back” as they scream past.
I bought my current bike (a ’94) used and have been very happy. Not sure how old you want to go, but you can find some great deals on Ninja 250s and 500s, Suzuki GS500s. Another favorite of mine is the late 90s Seca II. It’s a 600 parallel twin that’s tuned for cruising and commuting. It’s known to be pretty bulletproof and easy to work on.
You might also check out some of the dual sports, like the Suzuki DRZ-400 and Kawi KLX and KLR. They are very fun to ride around town, nice and light, and are capable of highway speeds (though that’s a relative thing).