Wonder if people bagging this bike have actually ridden it?
If you're looking for a hipster looking fixie with trackish geometry go for the SE Lager (on sale at Goldcross for $499) or Cellbikes. Or even the Fuji Track. The Bowery has gone up in price from the 08 models because of the FX rates. The 08 model could have been had for $600.
Most entry level (read: sub At$1000 fixies) have similar components:
cr-mo frame, wellgo pedals, alex rims, basic crankset (FSA Vero etc).
Best to try before you buy.