The clutch is easy to balance and it isn't an awkward biting point at all, that's just your driving tbh. I've driven quite a few cars actually, my dads work is based on a large airfield and as a summer job last year I helped out and it often involved driving across it to his warehouse to get stuff in vans, his Alfa 2.4 diesel. I even drove my mums old Audi TT up there too. (but that was more for the experience than doing anything useful) I know this isn't the same as driving them on the road but it gives me a reference point if that makes sense. I've driven a 4wd turbo, a diesel with a shed load of torque, a gutless van, a powerful van etc.
I know its not the best engine in the world, but it never fails to put a smile on my face this car. I keep thinking about changing it for something else but then I get on a lush road and it just has me hooked!
Its not bad to insure, the engine is fun in a VTEC rev it way, the compromise between comfort and handling is great, the interior has amazing seats. So comfortable, they hug you in, the first thing people say when they sit in the front is "wow, did you put these seats in? they are lush!" etc.
And as jenic said, its not exactly s**t for a first car. I love it, as do most people tbh. May not blow the world away with its power but it does what it does well. Its a little warm hatch.