I took the bike through some relatively unkept trails and roads today as its first 20km jaunt in the city. It has a very nice light frame, shifting is crisp and concise and tracking is on point and nimble. I liked it so much, even on the roads, that I am considering selling my sora equipped commuter road bike and using this one full time. I will use it regularly for awhile before making any decisions.
It's first trial on the mountain will have to wait about 10 days. I'll be sure to bring the camera and take some pics along the way.