The merits of the Quickbeam have been discussed at length before - do a search for the older version. I believe they had planned on discontinuing the model but I think a resurgence for that kind of a bike and for the Quickbeam brought it back.

I don't believe it appeals to many here, but then again, neither does Rivendell. It's definitely a certain kind of aesthetic and style.

They are not cheap. Cheaper than a typical Rivendell but not cheap.