One addition to all this: I think position makes the raise more doable with or without continuation bet. Basically, there are three cases that I can think of:

1) Against a tight opponent. Well, just make your continuation bet, and take it down.

2) Against a calling station. Check it. The station won't bet unless he has a hand, and you'll win with A-high at showdown. You also may get paid off quite a bit if you do hit.

3) Against a LAG. Check it hit or miss. He'll bet into your made hand on the turn.

With position, it seems to me that the raise thus becomes pretty attractive in all three cases.