Breezer wasn't the only front runner for me. Madison isn't *quite* as bike friendly as Portland OR, but it's still pretty friendly, so finding a European style city bike to test ride isn't hard.

Dahon makes a couple folding bike models that are very nice, with chain guards, hub gears and a light weight. It can be hard to get your hands on some models. And since I had a hard and fast requirement of "must be able to haul 50 lbs", none of the local Dahon dealers were really comfy with saying yes I should definitely wait for the container ship due in June or July. Me plus cargo would be heavy enough to be near Dahon's limits for the frame, and the cargo would be over limit for the racks available.

I tried Batavus and Kettler bikes, which are both European imports. People will tell you all European city bikes weigh 50 lbs and are built like tanks, and that isn't really true. Some models are heavier, some are lighter. The Kettler I tried is no longer being made, and was too big for me by a hair. Otherwise, it was somewhat nicer than the Breezer since it came stock with handlebars that fit me well.

A used Raleigh 3 speed or the moral equivalent is also great. Since I wanted working generator lights and a bike that would handle well in the rain, a Raleigh would have been a project bike... in need of new wheels and a bunch of expensive parts. I did the math, and it would have cost me (without a garage full of parts) as much as a new bike. There are long threads about English 3 speeds in both the Utility and the Classic and Vintage forums... very helpful! If you're looking for a cheap bike to get miles in with, this is probably my pick.