Homeslice at my LBS has been pushing a Cross Check, which I totally dig but of course it wouldn't have the sweet and shiny disc brakes, not to mention would put me like $300 over my budget... however seems to be the favored ride of Tacoma's retired crusty-punk community (my reference point for bike-coolness around here). Thanks for the braking tips, too BTW - until I have some new wheels I'll start playing with favoring the front a little more.