Well... it's done. Just got back from the LBS and after a lengthy discussion, i purchased a Cannondale Super X Rival 1. The shop agreed to swap the 11-28 cassette and short cage RD with a 11-32 and medium cage RD. Also I'm getting 32mm tubeless tires installed for road use and can sway the stock 35s for when i want to hit the dirt.

And I got it all and out the door for less than the list price.

Not bad, just gotta wait for it to arrive.