last time I was into cycling, it seemed you were either roadie or MTB'er and hardly any inbetween. Cyclocross type bikes didn't really expand beyond the hardcore racers.

So my philosophy has always been build a bike based around the ideal tires for your terrain/ environment you ride.

I found some fire roads near me that rarely see's 4x4 and Jeep traffic, and took my old MTB on it and it was a blast. I definitely want a new bike, I just don't know whether to get another hardtail mountain bike or try one of these newer style cyclocross and Gravel style bikes. I currently have 26"x2.2" tires, I would like to try the new 27.5" or 29", or maybe the 700c and 650b. Too many freaking choices.... I don't know what is the right tool for the job... Too big and wide of tires and I slow myself down. Too skinny and I risk wiping out and eating shit.

Photo is not mine, but similar to what it's like. The hills aren't too steep, and branch out for miles and miles.