I apologize in advance. I've been waffling on this for a week. Does anyone have experience with both of these bikes? The Cross Check is more of a do-it-all/cyclocross kind of bike it seems. I thought I was sold, but then I rode a Pacer. Seemed like what I really wanted. I don't need racks and I don't plan on touring. More around town/commuting/30 mile weekend rides. My only hesitation is that I'd like to run 28's with fenders. Looks like it would be really tight even though they advertise it's fine. I've looked at other brands, but I like Surly's in an irrational way. I would love to hear any advice/experience. Thanks.

For those purposes, either one will work fine. Really.

From Surly's website under Pacer description:

Tire clearance
Room for 700 x 32 or 700 x 28 with fenders

https://surlybikes.com/bikes/pacer/frame_highlights

As for advice: if you rode the Pacer and loved it then buy the Pacer.

If you're not going bigger than 28+ fenders get the Pacer.

I think I'm going with the Pacer. Thanks to those who chimed in. As an aside, is it a jerk move to ask the bike shop to put on fenders before I buy the bike? I have a set of SKS P35's that were meant for another bike and didn't get used. I don't mind paying for labor, but I'd really like to be sure they can fit before I throw down the money for the bike. I've read stories online of people having trouble fitting fenders in the Pacer with 28's.

It's not a jerk move. You should be 100% before buying.

No. 1. But it if were my bike, I'd buy the cross check as it is more versatile.

Get a Some Smoothie...