Originally Posted by
downeaster59
All the bikes you mentioned are good. You'll find advocates here for each one! Let me make a suggestion to add to your list: the Cannondale Quick CX 4. It does pretty well on pavement, and quite well on dirt/gravel rail trails. A new one will run you around $600 (unless you catch a good sale), but you might find a couple of used ones about that will be more affordable for you.
In any case, try a number of bikes before you decide. Chances are, one will feel more "right" to you than the others.
I had briefly looked at that bike but ruled it out initially because of price. From the research I've been doing, it keeps coming up, though. I think I'll have to go ride that one tomorrow as well! My first budget was 200 and that went out the window quickly lol!