There is a new Rails Live CD distribution of Linux available at RailsLiveCD.org.
You can download the ISO and reboot your x86 computer into a Linux environment based entirely on the CD. Use a USB Key to save your changes until the next session or click on the install icon on the desktop to install directly to your hard drive. Update: the LiveCD is now at version 0.2.1 and includes updates to all core components.
PS: Try it it`s worth it!