Kona Sutra vs Marin Toscana vs ?

Not so. It has eyes for guards and rear rack. The main use is a fast but hardy commuter, with the ability to light tour; I think I've found my bike. Typically, though, I can't find my size (52 - 54 effective tt) in 2009 colours, which I *much *prefer to the 2010 model... Balls.

So it does, my bad. That puts in the same sort of category as the double cross or the crosscheck I suppose.

Like I said the geometry wont be suited to heavy load carrying. But you cant beat a CycloX bike for versatility.

Personnally I'd go for the Crosscheck for the horizontal drop-outs. Because I'd like my next utility bike to have an 8 speed Alfine hub, and I love the quality of Surly framesets.

Have you considered the Kaffenback? Should come in around a a grand with a Ultegra/105 mix.
http://www.planet-x-warehouse.co.uk/acatalog/Kaffenback_and_Uncle_John_Drop_Bar_Builds.html