I say if you can find a clearance sale, go for it! You know next year's models won't be that much better than this years (assuming they aren't actually worse, like computer software).
Then you can take the $100-200 you saved on the close-out bike, and buy commuting accessories! You could get a few items of good cycling-specific clothing, or maybe a light or something.
Good luck getting back into cycling, and, yes, business will always be that dull. Sorry.
