All good choices.

Some considerations:

1. Do you feel as if you need the support of a good local dealer to help you get measured, spec' and build the bike? If so, both Gunnar and Co-Motion have great dealers around the country. If you have a great dealer for either of those two who is convenient to you, that could make the difference.

2. At those prices, you're not too far away from a custom bike. Even though you said you don't need one, it's great to work with a custom builder, especially if he/she is local and you can work directly w/them. If you want another choice from a new builder, check out Chris Boeker, who makes Boedie bikes (one of the links in my signature below). His blog lists a number of his bikes, and a couple would be very close to what you're looking for; he also has built a couple of bikes with room for even bigger tires.

3. I'd think through a couple of things in advance:
- If you're doing more dirt road and packed trails, you might also consider a bike w/room for 32 c tires
- Do you want to be able to use fenders on the bike?
- Do you want rack mounts for a light rack; would you ever use this bike (say) for commuting?

Here's one of Chris's bikes for "dirt road" riding:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/boedeke...7623532319355/

Here's a more traditional bike:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/boedeke...7624083384514/