Just adding fuel to the proverbial fire, but I would definitely check out the Hyosung GT250/United Motors 250 sport bike. Hyosung, from Korea, has been around a few years now in the US, and has a product that I would buy over the Kawasaki. To me, the Kawi looks like a beginner's bike, while the Hyosung looks more serious. Of course, Kawasaki has many dealers which might be a consideration, while Hyosung has quite a few across the US, though not as many as Kawi. UM is adding dealers, (Bruce from EJ Cycles is a dealer of their's). My first preference in the 250 class would be the Hyosung GT250 "naked" bike, my second would be the Hysosung GT250R/UM 250 Sport bike (these are the same manufacturer and are full sport fendered), my third would be the Kawi, and the 4th the Zongshen. However, if price is a big consideration then the Zongshen could be first on your list.
www.umamerica.com www.hyosungmotorsusa.com