I'm considering a similar purchase over the next day or two. I ride 99% of the time in NYC on the bumpy/potholed/cobblestone roads and bike paths. I like having the front suspension to soften the rough ride and allow me to hit bumps and go off curbs. I will be riding mostly for fitness (not commuting), riding anywhere from 10 to 20 miles per day, 4+ days/week. Also plan on getting on some packed trails when the opportunity arises though they're not too plentiful here in the city. I like the upright position of the mtb/hybrids. I tried a Specialized Sirrus but I just didn't like the feel and posture of it overall. I want something with more performance and a more aggressive ride in the $500 range. Which brings me to the '11 Giant Roam 2 and the '12 Trek DS 8.2. They do not have lockout and do not have disc brakes like the next level up models do (Roam and DS 8.3 (and kaitai - no disc)) which are $600+. I've test ridden both and like the way they both feel. The lack of a lockout was not critical to my enjoyment, at least during the test rides but I sure do wish they had that feature. I'm 5'7.5", 165lbs and would be going for the size S in the Roam and 17.5 in the DS.
Would love additional input on personal experience on either of these bikes.
Giant Roam 2:
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/....2/7507/44081/
Trek DS 8.2:
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...eries/8_2_ds/#