I'm excited about the new Alfine 11 spd as well. But I didn't want to wait - and frankly, didn't have the additional 4 or 5 hundred a bike so equipped would cost just now. So I just took delivery of a new Swobo Baxter with the Alfine 8 spd. http://www.swobo.com/catalog/product...cPath=201_1473

First impressions are very positive. The Alfine runs much smoother, quieter, shifts great, and feels head and shoulders more efficient than the Sram 7 spd I ran a few years ago. I find first gear is plenty low for climbing (then again, I'm a single speeder as well) although it does spin out on descents (then again...). I'm just getting back into commuting, so I'm driving halfway to work then riding the rest. It's still about 12 miles with two good ascent/descents. And like tjspiel said; the upright position of the bike is more of a factor than the IGH. To that end, I'm going to fit a mustache handlebar I've got in the parts bin which will give me some additional hand positions and the ability to get more aero from time to time.

In the final analysis, I'd say the Baxter feels about 80% as fast/efficient as my cyclocross bike with road tires. I also LOVE the disc brakes.

All the best. DanO
Get out there and ride!