I tested a Cross Check several years ago, but bought a Volpe. First of all, the Volpe had a triple while the Cross Check did not and I wanted to do some touring. Volpe had STI shifters, Cross Check did not. Volpe cost $100 less.

Years later, I'm still really fond of the Volpe. And the components have stood up pretty well too. I've got about 6000 miles on it yet and everything still functioning well.

If I had bought a year later, I might have gone for a fully built LHT...