Test rode the Trek Crossrip, felt too stretched out and it wasn't really a ton of fun. They had a 50 cm Long Haul Trucker in stock, which wasn't the right size at all, but I took it for a short spin just to try out the steel and was really happy with the ride. I ended up ordering a Surly Cross Check in a 42, and if it's too small I can return for store credit and order the 46.

I'm a little bummed I didn't test ride the Bianchi Volpe, but the only local Bianchi dealer is pretty far away, and I really like the shop I ordered the Surly from.

Was SUPER excited right after I placed the order, although now I am transitioning into the predictable buyers-fear stage. It will probably go away once the Surly comes in and I get to ride it. And if it doesn't work out, we will get the deposit back as store credit which we will spend. The Surlys seem so customizable and durable which is really attractive.