All the magazines tend to rave about the Suzuki SV650 as being the best all-around bike for the money. It looks a little sporty, but is pretty much considered a "standard" bike, with more upright and comfortable ergos.
You can get a new one for pretty close to 5 grand (with some negotiation), so a used one should be very reasonable.
http://www.suzukicycles.com/Products...6/Default.aspx
The Hondas are great, too. I loved the Shadow I used to have. I rode it all winter, through rain and snow!