By off-roading, I mean pretty straight-forward trails I guess. Big gravel or dirt, tree roots, possibly steep. But this wouldn't be everyday. Probably once a month or so.

So I'm feeling a hybrid is going to be my best bet! I'll get my butt to the LBS circuit (as you pro-fessionals say) and see what I can't find!

Thanks again y'all! I can't believe how helpful everyone here has been.