I'm considering getting a new bike that I'll use primarily as a commuter. I'm curious which bikes I should consider. My commute is very short ~ 2 miles each way 4 total (still to far to walk), I carry a backpack that holds my lunch, computer, some paper work, likely a change of clothes a few times per week. I keep most my clothes at work and rotate every few days.

My commuting rig will also be my barhopper, wet weather road machine (rain, no snow here). I live near down town Atlanta, so looking for a bike that is quick responding, easy to start/ stop at light, let's me get upto speed quickly to work into traffic. It also need to look good next to my road bike. I want larger tires to smooth out rough road when sipping around town.

I have garage parking at work and home.

budget <1400,

So far my list of options to evaluate are:
Surly Cross Check I love the color and would look great with black fenders
Sala Vaya (3) hate the 3 ring front and the red/brown colors
Soma double Cross this bike maybe too cool for me. Seriously, never built a bike before. Not afraid to do it but curious how much will cost
Fanthom uno Wow orange and single speed and $399. Can you put fenders on this bad boy? Will it hold up for a year? will not function as a road bike in the wet.

Fanthom Outlaw Looks like a nice budget deal for a complete bike.

I'd appreciate some comments on any bike above and which other bikes I should look into. I'm looking for unique was to fullfill my needs and am in the RFI stage of the exercise I dont plan to purchase anything until I become educated on what best meets my needs.


Disclaimer ~ I'm prone to impulse decisions, so dont be offended if I ignore you suggestions and show up buying a Nikon 7000 camera body or a new lens instead.

many thanks,
v4e