@andyprough - very helpful! Thank you. I think I would be nervous that it would get messed up in shipping and again, wouldn't want to make my friend responsible for having to pack it "just right", you know?

@jyl - I live in a VERY flat city.

@Leisesturm - Interesting you suggested an Electra because there's a local place that carries them. I don't find it as pleasing aesthetically, but I will still look into it. I like that rec!

@laureh8 - I called a shop in Seattle who referred me to Clever Cycles and I can't remember if they said they didn't carry or they don't ship... all I know is of the places I've contacted, Aika Trading is the only one that seems to ship Gazelles.

After reading all your replies, it seems like it is worth it to just absorb the extra cost and pay to have it shipped from a store already in the US that carries them. If I had a trip planned to Europe, I can see it would be worth it to opt as an add on...but I don't have that option.

Thanks for the help, everyone!

I am curious if anyone knows or can note if the differences between the Original and the Toer Populair can really substantiate the pricing difference for an average joe rider like myself?