In my continuing search for a commuting bike, I went to Domenic's 2-wheeler's, an LBS here in Tempe, AZ, that I have heard great things about. Sure enough, the experience was awesome. After telling the sales experience what type of commuting I would be doing, she showed me a 2011 Surly Crosscheck in blue. They only had one in stock, and it was too small for me. I am 6'3" and this was a 56cm. But she raised the seat and let me take it for a test ride anyway. Even though it wasn't the same feel as I would have gotten on one that actually fit me, I pretty much fell in love with the bike. When I came back from the ride she showed me an XL Cannondale Badboy and said I might want to try this too. Totally different type of bike. Aluminum frame, flat bars, disc brakes. Nice bike, but I didn't find it very exciting. Definitely a noisier ride too, especially the brakes. I've never ridden disc brakes before, so maybe that was it. Still a pretty comfortable ride though. I told her the Crosscheck is a little more than what I have saved up right now, but I definitely will be coming back. I am going to keep test riding other bikes, but I think the crosscheck is going to be hard to beat.

Anyway, I just wanted to pass along my story. Also, if you live in the Phoenix area, you should visit Domenic's. This was the best experience I have had at an LBS yet.

Since you liked the Cross-check you may also want to ride a Salsa Casseroll in the same price range.

You should be shopping for a bike shop as much as for a bike. Seriously.

My girlfriend has a Cross Check. She loves it. It's a sporty version of bikes like the Long Haul Trucker. She says it handles much better than her previous K2 road bike, and is more comfortable than a lot of bikes she's had in the past.