I was wandering the same thing when I was making my choices for my first bike. A few things helped me make up my mind.
First this was gonna be my first bike so it doesn’t have to be the fastest thing on the block just able to get me to point A to B. When I ‘m ready to move up I will trade this one in and get a better bike.
I’m a big guy too around 270 pounds. Me and my Ninja do just fine going down the highway at 70+ speeds. I do notice that there really isn’t much left, but this is my first bike so I don’t really need to be going any faster.
At 5’8″ the 250R fits me well both feet on the ground with no problems. The reach to the bars is just right as well. I was able to find a used 06 model for around $3,300 so you should be able to find one that’s under your price range.
Just like the other guys said I would also recommend you take an MSF course. It help me alot.