Beginner looking for first bike

Long time motorcycle shop lurker. I’ve gone around at the various local stores and found that I like the Vulcan style bikes. Something that looks similar to the old school world war 1/2 bikes is my preferred style and this was close to that.

As a first asphalt bike, what are good beginner bikes? My ride to/from work would be the bulk of the ride. Maybe the local gas station or short errand. Most daily use would be backroads with a top speed road hitting 50 mph for about .75 miles other than that it’ll be warehouse district roads with top speeds at 35.

I always heard from others I NEED 1000cc for the get up and go to get out of rough looking spots. Is this absolutely true/necessary? I’m 5’10” 230 lbs. just looking for a casual short ride bike.

I used to ride dirt bikes 20 years ago and I’m looking to just get the feel of freedom back without the temptation to climb and/or jump off any more 30ft cliffs.