I am in the same position as the OP. I couldn't decide which hybrid to get. I narrowed it down to one brand... Giant. As it has been stated it seems you get more for your money. I was debating whether to get the Roam 2 or Escape 1. I wasn't too crazy about the colors offered on the Roams. So I started looking at 2013 models. I saw a 2013 Escape 0 that was being sold at the same price as a new Roam 2. So I ran to buy it. To my disappointment, the lbs did not have it. They claimed it was an error on the website. I am back to square 1 but now I know I don't want shocks. So now I'm torn between Escape 1 and Escape 0. Tough decision. I'm a novice but I want a good bike.... I have a tough decision ahead.