I'm in the market for something very similar to what you want: An IGH step-through commuter that I can also use for recreational rides. I just did a test ride on the Linus mixte and really didn't like the feel of it. I can't quite put a finger on what felt off, maybe the tires felt cheap? Here are a couple of others you might consider in that price range:
The Civia Twin City --
http://civiacycles.com/bikes/twin_ci...rough_7_speed/. It's $1000 and comes with rear and front racks, fenders, a chain guard, and a double-footed kick stand. It also has a much lower step over than the mixtes do.
The KHS Green 8 --
http://khsbicycles.com/bikes/2014-kh...ls/green-8-14/. It's $770 and comes with a rear rack, fenders, and a chain guard. Also a really low step over.
Both bikes are chromo steel. I haven't been able to test ride either yet, but they get good reviews.
Good luck!