Ahh, budget being a factor, another option is Bikesdirect.com - they offer excellent value for money on the bikes, with the main caveat that some mechanical ability is beneficial to get the bike set up and tuned (or a willingness to pay $75-125 for a local mechanic to do it).
cx bike http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/..._cross_cx2.htm
Sturmey Archer 5-speed, "relaxed" track geometry http://bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/kilott_wt5.htm
Touring - http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/tourist.htm
Anyway, just a thought.

I've purchased two bikes through BD and have been very pleased with the value for money. A couple of areas where they tend to skimp on the sub $400 models will be saddle and bottom bracket.

Of course, the bikes are purchased sight unseen, and while there is a return policy, the shipping cost becomes a factor if you're not happy with the bike. The upshot is a 1-2 level upgrade in components for a given price bracket.

It is hard to go wrong with the Kona, IMO. I see a handful of 'em just about every day, loaded with racks fenders and such, in all conditions.