I have one road bike and when I just need to run to the store, take a ride with the kids, etc. it's too much bike and not one I want to lock up outside anyway. I've been thinking a SS might be a fun (and hopefully cheaper) option for around town trips.

What I'm not sure about is where to start - which frame?

I was kind of partial to the Surly 1x1 but the 26in wheels are a turn off. I'm 6'3" so a somewhat larger bike is desirable. The Karate Monkey fits the bill but I think I'll run fairly narrow tires as it will be a mostly pavement bike. Might work okay. Since I have more of a road orientation, the Soma double cross was my first choice, but the lack or horizontal drops has me worried. Do I need one of those eccentric hubs or will a regular one work on the Some DC? The Surly Cross Check is probably a good option as well, but the forward facing drops worry me for some reason and I like the Soma better.

So, what are some of the better (but in the same price range as those mentioned) SS frames out there to consider? How practical is the double cross for SS?

Thanks.