I used to live close enough to walk to work, but I've moved farther away (a little over 5 miles) and I'm quickly growing tired of bus fares and schedules. Time to get a bike!

Three that have caught my eye:

My needs, at least as I understand them:

The Swobo appeals to me over the rest, but for largely aesthetic reasons. I like the look of the Dixon, I like the simplicity of the internal gear hub, I like the lack of a big, recognizable brand name, and I like the culture of the company, from what I've seen/read. Does any of this justify paying $1000 for a bike? I'm not so sure.

Am I on the right track?