sounds like the giant is the run away winner so far. thanks CPfitness, your the first person in a similar situation as me that I've spoken too who actually owns one of the bikes so your info is very helpful. I'm going to test out the norco and giant tomorrow morning, but I would still really like to try the LG. it has some really nice features at the same price as the Giant. For anyone interested the Giant is 599, the norco 499 and the LG 619 (all canadian). keep the opinions coming!