My ride was stolen from my patio (patio locked, but not bike, stupid, I know). I am heading out to the Columbia River Gorge this summer and NEED a real bike again. I just bought my husband the Jamis Dakar XC and now I want it (but with Hayes instead of J h-disc brakes) My old bike was a Specialized Epic (2003). I liked her, but it seems like the Jamis gives me more for the money. Am I missing something? Am I developing an irrational east coast preference? Help appreciated. (no, he can't help. he has no idea what a crank arm is. I got it b/c it was close to the price limit he set for me and thought he'd stay out with me for longer rides...)