C'mon now, I'm from Chicago. Albuquerque has huuuuuge hills as far as I'm concerned (although I was in Seattle a couple weeks back.) To tell the truth, I saw a dude mashin' up a hill by the Pike Market on a fixie and I was all like, "that dude is the king." I think that was the straw that broke the camel's back and got me to finally buy one. I'd wanted to for awhile, but was too stubborn and worried what the cool kids would think of me on my shiny new bike. I could care less now though, I'm heartbroken.

As for those who recommend the brake, I did get one. I even used it once! I've ridden a skateboard without doing anything to protect myself for far too long, and I'm fully aware of only having one body. I'm in no rush to cause more irrepairable damage to myself.

And rough-rider, I did have the guys at the store (very friendly and helpful) fit me for the bike. So, I'm wary to adjust the bars right off as I do believe it may be just a period of adjustment thing. I will, when out riding tomorrow, stop back by the store and ask about it though.