Scrodzilla:

Newb. Want something for easy rides with my kid and (sometimes) a 2.5 mi. flat commute to work. I am lazy; Want my bike to be like a toaster: Get up in the morning, and it just works, with little hassle. No long trips, no racing, etc.

I was planning on getting a BD Hour or similar. Then a friend offered me an old bike of theirs: an early-90s Cannondale R500 in very good shape, that hadn't been ridden in years. I like the no-shifters ideal (I have no need to go very fast, and like the simplicity) and appreciate the value of getting something newer. But the Cannondale is a very good bike, too. Both are similar price.

Which would *you* buy?

Added: The Cannondale fits me fine; I'd get the BD in my size and get it assembled/adjusted at the LBS (as I would with the Cannondale).