Hi again Sam,

Just some ideas here...

If you are looking for something faster:
I don't recommend going with an Alfine, or any internally geared hub, while they offer sweet reliability and shifting, they are less efficient then derailleur set-ups. While, I can't say how much you'd notice this, it is a fact that they run less efficiently.

Next, evaluate the tires and equipment that you are using on the Aurora, the tires that are stock on the aurora are slow and heavy. My all-around favorite commuter/long distance tires are Panaracer Paselas, in either 28 or 32. They are light, supple, grippy, good for all surfaces, and don't get a lot of flats. You'll save a few ounces if you get the folding version (recommended). These will improve your ride and make your bike feel and be faster. You'll be amazed.

As for equipment - if you must ride with panniers, get a light rack with a narrow profile, like a tubus fly.

As for faster bikes, the Fastlane feels as fast as the tires I'm riding with. In general, some cyclocross bikes make good sporty commuters. You might consider:

Expensive ($2500-3800 )
Terry bikes
Gunnar crosshairs, hyper-x, fastlane.

Economical ($1100)
Surly Cross Check (they make some mighty small bikes, and this years colors include robbins egg blue!)

Now as for fit and misc:

The 49 Civia Bryant effective top tube is about 2 cm shorter than your Aurora, and about the same length as a Surly LHT 46cm frame if that's any help.

As for cost of the Salsa Vaya I believe it is around $1700.

You might want to go to the respective websites to find dealers in your area.



Good Luck!