I read several reviews comparing the cbr250 and the ninja250 and the cbr250 sounded slightly more beginner friendly. I like that the cbr250 has the fuel injected engine making it easier to start for a newbie like me. They both sounded like really good bikes, but I just liked the look and the red/silver color scheme of the cbr250 a little more than the ninja250.
I didn't really look at any other bikes. I have a few friends who ride motorcycles and they told me the cbr250 and ninja250 would be the best bikes for me to choose from, so I just took their advice lol.