I can see where its not everyones cup of tea, and it's certainly no racer's dream, but to me it is the bike I have wanted for a long time. It has everything needed to replace my car, and an XtraCycle will even work with it! To me it is a very awesome looking bicycle, and I get asked about it everywhere I go. It is especially a hit with the older crowd.
That said, if you are in the market for this sort of bike, wait till later this summer. Kona's new stuff will be out, as well as Globe's refreshed 2012 line. I am looking forward to seeing what the new Haul will bring back, as I heard from a little birdie that they have been listening to their customers about the dramatic shaft the Haul got, and possibly helping it out this year or bringing out an even slicker model. I just hope they stop fixating on the hipster fixie crowd and really give the Haul the attention it deserves.