New rider

I am assuming since your thinking of a vulcan, that your leaning towards the cruiser look and feel? Also you did not say if you might eventually ride 2 up? Notoriously in the past anyway... cruisers did not make for the best beginner bikes. They are long, low, and heavy which can make for interesting low speed handling as well as curve negotiation {for a beginner} but don't take me wrong or let that turn you off. Those attributes along with low seat height and smooth throttle response can also work to your advantage...the weight really helps when you first get into strong winds and buffeting, the low seat height helps with balance at stops, etc. Just don't do things like add highway pegs and kick your feet up and out when your new. There are thousands of "little things" but I always remind new people to keep their feet under them and their knees close to the tank (balance, dynamics, all that good stuff) if you like the cruiser style I would strongly suggest a vulcan S. Not sure though if you are looking for a new bike. If you are not stuck on a cruiser style and want a good around town bike but still have plenty of power.. the Triumph Bonneville comes to mind along with several others. I think in your case it will help to narrow it down if we knew what style initially appealed to you and if you would eventually use it for any extended 2 up riding.