Just based on anecdotes, most people seem to think that their durability and ride are both pretty good. My experience is that their customer support after purchasing new or used is also quite good.

Since you mention a rear rack earlier, Bike Fridays and small wheel bikes in general -- although it is physically possible to make a high trail small wheel bike -- are low trail bikes that handle front loads better. Even when I was doing club rides, I'd put a handlebar bag on the front and lose the saddle bag.