Need help with first bike purchase. Cannondale, Giant, Specialized Cross bikes
I've recently grown fond of biking over driving and have decided that it's time to invest in a good bike for commuting/enjoyment.
After researching traditional road bikes vs. cross bikes I think that a cross bike will suit my needs the best. Turns out that was the easy part. I've been reading forums, google searching, and visiting bike shops recently, and have gotten a lot of useful information however I am still very much new to all this.
I've seen a lot of talk about Bianchi, Kona, and Surly entry level bikes, but am looking to get some insight between Giant TCX, Cannondale CAADX Tiagra, and Specialized Tricross Sport.
Pretty much whatever I get will be an upgrade from the Giant Boulder MTB I ride now, but I plan on selling my car to buy whatever I get so I'd like to get the best I possibly can for my $ (my car is only worth around $1,500)
Any input/suggestions would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance.