Well for under 10k you can get pretty much any bike you want new or used that fits that criteria. Since you posted a cruiser style bike I will show you a few options that would be good starter bikes and even able to handle highway speeds.
1: kawasaki vulcan 500
2: suzuki s40 650
3: yamaha v star 650
These are 3 semi lightweight bikes that would suit a beginner. All of which you could get used for under 3,000 or new for under 6-7. Make sure you take the MSF saftey coarse first!
If you have any other questions just ask.