I'm looking to replace my bike with a new hybrid. Based on what I've read so far, I wouldn't worry about small differences in price and just pick the bike that feels best. But it's not easy to pick out differences on a short test ride, especially if I have to drive to different stores to try them all.

Right now, my range goes from the Novara Metro ($360 after 20% off) up to the Canondale Adventure 3 ($630), with the Marin Redwood and Novara Forza in the middle. I've ridden all but the Adv 3 (because lbs didn't have one built yet in my size), and they all seem to fit ok. The lbs is more conveniently located, and I think they'll spend more time getting the final fit right, but I certainly have no complaints about REI service. When I go back to the LBS, I may also look at the Specialized or else a different LBS that carries Tek.

My question is what sort of practical differences will I actually notice across this price range? The Adv 3 has narrower tires, which I think is a plus, but that's the only obvious thing I can judge from the specs. There are small tradeoffs, like preferring trigger shifters (Redwood/Forza) and quick release seat post (Redwood/Adv3). But will I actually notice differences between the derailleurs? between the stems or forks? Are there other aspects that I should be looking at?

Many thanks,
Gary