Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - new ssfg rider question kona/raleigh/redline - flame suit on

Note: also asking in commuter forum

Sorry to a) ask a question that has been likely beaten to death already, and b) post ***** another man's thread, but I'm just getting into ssfg, and I wanted an experienced opinion.

I am shopping the 2008 Kona Paddywagon (can get for $650, will need some uprades) the 2008 Redline 925 (can get for $530, but have to special order, cant test ride although I get 30 day return on it) or the Raleigh 1-way (2007, can get for $525).

I rode the Paddywagon yesterday, and had a blast. Great frame, very forgiving on bumpy terrain. I am riding the 1-way tomorrow, and my question is this - is it worth dropping the $530 sight unseen for a redline 925, even with a refund possibility, just to test ride it? And if I enjoy the ride on the 1-way, at the same price point for better components, does it even make sense to try the 925?

Thanks all for any input.

out of those I think I like the Raleigh one way the best, what year of one way? Their newest is really really awesome.

one-way all the way!

Its the 07 - I like the upgrades on the 08, but they arent available anywhere in my area, and for $175 less, the 07 can be set up like the 08. Just trying to figure out if the redline really offers anything I should be looking for when it is priced like the 1-way, and after having liked the kona's ride.

no Rush Hour?

no Rush Hour?

i think hes looking for more of a commuter.

i think hes looking for more of a commuter.

Ah, right on. Does the Kona have eyelets and such? It may have less utility than the Redline or One Way.

The kona has fender / rack eyelets. Thus far, doesnt look like anyone is so pro redline that it is worth buying it just for a test ride when compared to the other bikes on my list.

Get the Kona. I almost did.