If you are looking at Cannondales, then you owe it to yourself to look at the Rush line. They are well within your range, and are fabulous bikes. I had it narrowed down to a Rush, and an FSR xc comp. I went with the FSR due to better spec'd parts, but the Rush was one fine bike. It was my hearts first choice, but my mind told me that the FSR xc would be better for me.