All of your bike choices seem to be very popular models. I think you'd end up liking any of them. I only have experience with the Kona, and I believe they are a little more road and aggressive, which is why I settled on one. With road tires, it to me feels like a road bike. Scott and Fuji make some nice CX bikes around that price range. Test ride a few, and see what you like. With a spare set of wheels you could have more riding options.