For my money, the Poprad simply spec'd out better.
Better frame (True Temper steel vs. CrMo 4130) and better parts mix (105/Bontrager vs. Tiagra/Deore/generic) for what's less than a $300 difference.
The Poprad's also lighter, less "clunky" ride-wise, and a lot more responsive all the way around.
I couldn't spend another $400 on a Cross-Check and get anywhere near the bike that the Poprad is straight out of the box.
Don't get me wrong; I like the Cross-Check and I "get" the Surly vibe. I just think that QBP's asking about $200 too much for what ends up being a glorified generic* Taiwanese frame with parts that are largely under-spec'd for the purported "go anywhere, do anything" application.
As always, JMHO, YMMV, etc.
EDIT: On second thought, I didn't really mean the generic part. I actually really dig how much thought went into things like the rear spacing, SS-compatible dropouts, clearance for big tires and chainrings, etc.
Last edited by sameness; 08-17-05 at 05:08 PM.