Lots of things to consider.

But yeah according to the reviews I've been reading, it seems like there are people who are fine with the stock components.

I just don't want to buy a cheap bike and end up with brakes that don't work properly and end up killing myself in a blaze of anti-climactic glory.

If anyone could offer their opinion,

Overall, what is the better bicycle (not taking into account money and price per value) between the Novara Buzz One and the Nashbar Hounder?

I ask this, because I want to end up with the better overall bicycle that will give me less headache and things to worry about in the long run. I specifically set aside about $600 for this investment.

I've already ordered a Bell Helmet (found it new for cheap on eBay), already have an Onguard chain (with the bigass links) lock, and an additional wire lock from Kryptonite, and I'll be using a pair of Harbinger lifting gloves, not sure what else I could possibly need other than a travel air pump.