Ive been lurking for a few months and I think Im finally going to buy my first fixed/single speed late January. I wanted to get peoples opinions on the merits of buying a $600+ complete (e.g. Pista, IRO, Capo) when compared to the $300-350 Bikes Direct offerings. From what I can see, theres alot of love for the Kilo TT and its one of my top choices. But would the extra $300 be that much better frame/component -wise for a first bike? 99.99% of the time I will be riding on the road, and I forsee some crashing on my part while Im learning the ins/outs of riding fixed. I also live in Seattle, and well, its very moist most of the time. Should I be concerned about a steel frame rusting? I would be storing my bike essentially 'outside' in a shoddy garage that isnt completely protective from the elements.


Also, how do people feel about the Moto. Messenger or the Windsor Hour when compared to the Kilo TT? Is the TT the hands down favorite? Im tempted by the Messenger because it comes with brakes and a freewheel, but are those specific components junk? Would I be better off buying a quality front brake and a freewheel from my LBS?


I guess to sum it up, Im just looking for affirmation that I should buy a cheaper bike while learning. Then when I figure out if riding fixed is really for me I can decide to build my ideal bike later down the road.