Hi there, madam, this would be ideal for your husband for a number of reason. It would perfectly fine on the roads, so if he commutes to and from work, he could change the tryes for slick ones and then keep the slightly thicker ones for trails/mountaining biking. Also, in terms of 'off road' use, it would light enough to 'throw around', but yet, strong enough to endure anything he would throw at it. Also, to put your mind at ease, Cannondale offer a lifetime warraty on frame and forks to the original purchaser.
Hope this helps.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.
Robski
Wandsworth Store