Have an Escape 2 (my first step up to 'real' bike) and still enjoy it taking out for a nice evening cruise around the neighborhood (10 - 15 mi.) occasionally. I often refer to it as the "S.U.V." because it easily takes on most any paved or dirt/gravel path with little thought or effort of the rider. I find it to be a great 'utility' bike and it is my first choice for a set of wheels to take on local overnight getaways for fun destination transportation.