Consumer reports is good on cars, electronics, and the like, but there are so many choices when it comes to cycling that they barely scratch the surface. Ninth best? Out of how many they tested? Then think about the hundreds of models they didn't test. That tells you something about what "Ninth best" means.

I also agree that the main thing comes down to riding it. What feels comfortable to you? A bike that works for one can be misery for another. I tried a Breezer, which is a great bike, but I couldn't stand it. Others would hate riding my Surly Cross Check.

I don't know what a Motobecane Mirage is, but think about what you like and don't about it. You are starting to do that when you talk about tire width and hills. Do you want a more aggressive or less agressive bike? A more upright or a less upright bike? Capacity for a rack and fenders or not? High number of gears or low number of gears? Is being light important? Are shock absorbers important?