Thanks Big Blue, 10 Wheels, Pacificcyclist, and all the others who have chimed in. I will take all things mentioned into consideration and report back later on the results. Got a few goodies from Santa to place on which ever bike I decide to go with for the interim (Bontrager trunk bag, bell for handle bars, rear view mirror, etc....).

Guess I will find a shop that I feel comfortable with and make some mods to the temporary ride. Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.