gwd, thanks for the excellent and timely review. My LBS has this exact bike in my exact size on closeout for $450, which is a steal. I've been eyeying it up as a backup/winter bike based on the super-low maintenance.

A couple questions:
I'm not a weight weenie, but think that rear wheel lock looks pretty useless and heavy. Have you removed it or do you know if it is easily removable?
I'll take this one for a good test ride first, but any idea if the 20tooth cog on the Nexus8 can be easily swapped for a smaller one to up the gearing?
The saddle seems quality, but too squishy for me. What did you replace yours with and after many miles on it, what type of saddle would you recommend for the riding position?
Thanks