Hi Marc!
Given the choices you've presented, I'd stick with the Specialized. I love my new Rockhopper, and suspect that you'll love yours too. If you had a Kona dealer nearby, I'd recommend you check them out. For the "two bikes for a grand" sweepstakes, though, stay with Specialized.
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Nishiki road bike, Raleigh road bike, Electra Cruiser Lux 7d, Electra Townie 3i, Electra Townie 1, Whatever I find today!