Novara are perfectly good. What I don't understand is the desire for a mtn. bike if the majority of your riding is on roads. How much riding is actually going to be on trails? Selling it won't be easy if you're not around to show it although you could try lining up potential buyers while on the road through Craigslist upon your destination. I'd be inclined to get the cheapest bike possible and bring your panniers and basic equipment with you from home. If you're set on a mtn bike it would be worth looking for a model with a lockout on the front forks.