Crim, understand completely. I really enjoy riding my 250 alot, more than my 500 at times. But mainly because of track-time
. You will like a 250 more than a 500. The power hits harder though, so you might consider a 4 banger seriously. Smooth power hit.
EDIT: As far as lighter and more managable. YES! by far. Not lighter though, but depending on the 250, if you buy a fairly new (within 5-6 years) 250, they feel like riding a feather, very easily monuverable and easier to ride by FAAAAR.