Thanks for all the advice. I did a ton of test rides last week and ended up getting a 2012 Jamis Exile Race, which wasn’t even on the radar. I love the way it is set up, and the components are excellent for what I paid. I wasn’t crazy about the geometry on the cannondale. Like you suggested I took both of them out in the parking lot and rode over curbs and through ditches etc. I actually wrecked the one I bought during a demo. I was a little too comfortable and went flying around a corner in the parking lot. I had to lock up the brakes when someone pulled out in front of me and I bent the rim pretty bad, but I stayed upright. After that I was sold, but I did have to upgrade the rear wheel to something a little more sturdy. Thanks for all your input. Nothing left to do now but have a great riding season!