I test rode the Cross Check and would echo the comments above. It's a really solid bike, competitively priced, versatile, and has cachet due to the Surly name. It's maybe slightly on the heavy side, but then again, that helps it be touring and off-road capable. It is widely available, so why not find a local dealer and check it out? Sounds like it's more a curiosity thing with you, and you're not in the market for one, but it's always fun to go "kick the tires."

The Motobecane Fantom CXX was clearly designed to compete with the Cross Check, but I think it's a better bike at 2/3rds the cost. I test-road the Cross Check and liked it, but decided to take a chance on the Fantom CXX, and that was the right choice for me: Save up to 60% off new Cyclocross Road Bikes - Motobecane Fantom CX Clearance