Thank you all for your responses! I decided to wait it out and get the Escape 1. The color and composite fork were the main determining factors. From my understanding, it's a 2x9-speed and parts are all above the Tourney line which is something I also wanted.
[MENTION=55920]pcunite[/MENTION]: It's funny you mentioned the Shimano 105's because I had already been looking at these parts. I'll have to wait a bit and break in the bike but I know myself and will want to start tinkering sooner rather than later.