How does the quality of a ~$400 Kilo TT compare with those of bike store bikes in the ~$700+ range, like Kona Paddy Wagon, Surly Steamroller, Specialized Langster, etc.? I don't know what to look for when reading spec sheets.

Are the $700+ bike store bikes higher quality with better components than bikesdirect, or is it mostly paying for the name and bike store placement?