I have a 2006 TriCross Sport and have been very happy with it. I rode an "all terrain" bike for 10 years or so, but when I started realizing that I wanted to go farther distances more efficiently, the TriCross was my first "real" bike. If I knew then what I know now, I probably would have spent the extra money for the Comp model, but the Sport has been a great "starter" bike. Sleek, sturdy, and tons of fun!

Bear in mind, though, that the geometry of the TriCross is not that of a touring bike. I've had mine tweaked so that it's now a bit closer to touring geometry, and I currently love the fit. If you have the opportunity, do ride some other bikes so that you can compare emotional responses.