All, thanks for the feedback. I am just recovering from a broken arm and we have had a lousy winter so I have not ridden any of the bikes I mentioned. I will ride all three, though. I refuse to order any model of bike without first riding it.
I guess I am looking for something somewhat zippy, but also comfortable. That's why the Space Horse seemed so appealing. The Cross Check and Cross Rip also seem promising. Whatever I get, I want it for the long haul, both literally and figuratively. I'd like to be able to comfortably do centuries on it and I'd like to have this bike for years to come. I'd also like to be able to ride it to the office. I guess now the proof will be in the pudding...I need to ride some bikes.
Any Cross Check and Cross Rip owners want to chime in? While I don't mind saving my beans for quality, the price point of the entry level Cross Rip is appealing...
Again, thanks for the input!