Thanks Nokia for the info. I think we are on very close to the same page. I gotta confirm the locking situation at the office. Of course now you've added to my confusion, haha. A fixie for commute sounded practical, especially if locked outside. It sounds like the bay area probably has a good used bike market, but I definitely need something quick, and ideally something that won't require much attention (assuming its just my commuter bike, and minor other usage). One of the reasons to buy a fixie is to be able to have ample time to check out craigslist for a nice deal on a road bike. But I feel like I don't want to get a total POS one either, I'd rather spend a few hundred more and get something I'll enjoy riding, and use for more than just the commute.