The Fixie from Phat Cycles is about $460, the shop that was selling them said they'd shave off a few dollars if I paid in cash, which is what I am planning on doing anyway.

The Felt Brougham is $598.

It's not a gigantic price difference, but it's very considerable.

It's a good point, No1Mad. One feels better and the other might take a bit of time getting used to. But I think it's also just that they might be two different kinds of bikes.

I'll look around for the Back Alley, but I have not come across it at any of the bike shops yet.

I haven't been to Bicycle Habitat in Park Slope. I only went to the one in Manhattan. I live in Manhattan and figured it would make sense to buy from a bike shop that is relatively close to where I live, to take advantage from whatever free/discounted mechanic service they might offer.