Well, I did the unthinkable and went with the crosstrail. Not only that but actually went a step up to the "Expert" trim...shatty fork and all
http://www.specialized.com/ca/en/bik...il-expert-disc
Rode the others and almost went with the Sirrus Carbon, mostly for the looks. Sharp. But in the end all suspension hybrids felt better to me. Old man bike for an old man I guess. Love it...large frame and the wide bars just felt a better fit for now.
The wife got a Norco Valance so I can always joyride it if I need a thrill.