Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 13,560
Likes: 44
From: Milledgeville, Georgia
Bikes: 2018 Black Mountain Cycles MCD,2017 Advocate Cycles Seldom Seen Drop Bar, 2017 Niner Jet 9 Alloy, 2015 Zukas custom road, 2003 KHS Milano Tandem, 1986 Nishiki Cadence rigid MTB, 1980ish Fuji S-12S
The Utopia looks like a good bike and on paper would be the best of the ones you listed for the kind of riding you stated. The 29er (700c) wheels would be a big advantage over the others' 26" wheels. I'm curious why you are leaning toward such beefy suspended bikes for paved path and road riding. I would think a rigid fork, something from the fitness lines, would serve you better. But that is your choice.
Specialized has the Crosstrail Expert model, similar in concept and spec to the Utopia.
I'm sure you'll be hearing soon from an ancient being from Middle Earth with a boatload of specs and impressions. Enjoy the search.