Hello,

I have just gotten into biking and looking to buy a hybrid. My riding is recreational with most of my miles will be on road, hard packed gravel (rails-to-trails surface) and gravel roads. I live in the mountains so there is a lot of climbing involved. My local bike shop carries Cannondale, I want to purchase locally. I am considering the Cannondale Quick CX1 or CX3. There is about a $700 difference between the bikes. I know that the difference is supposed to be in upgraded components. I don't mind paying more initially if what I am getting is worth the extra money. Since I am new to the sport, I have no reference regarding upgraded components.

So my question is: What do I get for the additional $700 for the CX1 vs CX3? and is it worth the extra money?