Been riding fixed gears for 12 years and have had 4 bikes. First one was a conversion, 52cm Giant Kronos frame from late 90s, whatever I could scavenge from parts bins and some decent cranks from Harris. Frame should have been small for me but it worked with a lot of seatpost and a long inclined stem. Second was a Bianchi Pista 55cm that I picked up used from a thrift store in bizarre twist of fate. This frame should have been my size, but always felt too big and uncomfortable and I never really liked it. Third was another conversion based on really sweet early 70's Italvega made of Columbus Special tubes with chromed lugs and a set of custom built Velocity Aeros with Suzue Pro Max hubs and some other nice bits. This one the frame was maybe 53 but there was something about it, maybe the top tube was too short where I just never got comfortable. Really loved the ride of the quality steel and nice wheels and went through tons of stems and bars but ended up having to sell. Current one is a Redline 925, 54cm and despite it's low end parts fits the best.

The current Redline is heavy and not very lively feeling. Would like something lighter and more responsive, not track geometry (learned that from the Pista) but just a sweet, comfortable, light bike. I've realized that fit is the most important thing so I'd prefer something where I could try a built version first, even if I'm going to end up building myself. I guess I like more modern compact geometry but want something made of good material with a bit of flair. Going to be used mostly for shorter rides and the occasional 20-50 mile weekend ride and maybe a century once a year. Ideas?

Wabi Special or Classic sound like they will be right up your alley.

Probably a good call. Not very sexy but light.

Polished Wabi Special is sexy.

Yes, but oh so expensive.

price range?

look for a used reynolds 631 jamis sputnik (a few years old now) for a fantastic bargain ride. up from there? myself, i'd be looking at a used soma delancey or perhaps a gunnar.