Being a former Ninja 250 owner (and loved it) I completely agree that it is a great on road beginner bike that you can grow with for a couple years.
The freaking engine will scream like a 2 stroke if you want to wind it out to redline. It corners great too.
But frankly I like a DS or standard on the road. I would probably like a Super Moto too. I like the upright sitting position.
My back and elbows like it better too. The Ninja 250 is kind of a sport/standard. You don't lean over too far.
I can't comment on the zhongshen, I haven't rode one.
But if it is no faster than one of the DS 200's that the Chinese are making then don't even think about getting on an Interstate. I used to ride my Ninja 250 on the Interstate. A little buzzy but okay for a 30 minute commute.
If you need some more feedback on the Ninja 250 then check out the Ninja 250 riders club forum. It is similar to this one because a lot of people will actually try to help.
http://ninja250.kingston.net/board/