I'm starting to think maybe I should save a lil bit of cash and get the Phat Cycles Phixie instead of the Felt Brougham.
So I'm basically stuck between the Phat Cycles Phixie, Felt Brougham, and the Novara Buzz One.
The Phat Cycles Phixie feels similar to riding the Felt Brougham. It looks nice. But I worry that the quality and durability of the bike and the components may not be very good. It doesn't have a front wheel brake. There aren't many reviews on this bike. I only managed to read one fairly in depth review, where the writer replaced a bunch of the stock components anyway. Although since this will be my first road/urban/commuting bike, maybe it is suitable that I go cheap.
The Felt Brougham felt similar to riding the Phat Cycles Phixie. It looks the coolest out of all the bikes. I've been reading positive reviews on it. The store offers free brake and gear adjustments for life, as well as less expensive tune-up costs than REI. But it is the most expensive bike I am considering.
It will probably take a little bit of time getting used to riding the Phixie and/or the Brougham. But I can see myself getting used to it, especially once my fear of street riding with NYC automobiles and crazy cabbies simmers down.
The Novara Buzz One was a very comfortable ride. The REI Satisfaction Guaranteed warranty is awesome. However, while I don't think it's hideous, I do find it to be the least attractive. I dislike the handlebars and if I want it replaced I will probably go through another headache of finding the right handlebar and then either doing it myself or taking it back to REI (not a big deal, but I will probably go crazy finding the right handlebar). After tax it will be about $50 less than that of the Brougham. After finding the right handlebar, and adding cost of labor (or doing it myself), it will come out to just slightly less or the same price as the Brougham. Spray painting it or getting a custom paint job on the bike if I decide to will also add to the cost and headache and might void the REI satisfaction guaranteed warranty.
Decisions decisions...