@giantcfr1 I typed that when I was having some frustration with my cheap Walmart-bought Schwinn, so it was probably unnecessary to mention in hindsight. I have since tuned it up so that it shifts without a sound (I expect the front derailleur will start slipping out of alignment after a ride or two), but it's really not worth the trouble. And I never cross chain. I've never owned any top of the line bikes but I like to think I have at least basic knowledge of how bikes work. And then there's always Wikipedia.
I'm thinking the Escape 1 will be good for me, I've heard nothing bad about it besides the tires having severe rolling resistance. Anyone care to comment on that? And I'm still open to more suggestions if there are any.