The standard response to Bikes Direct in general seems to be that they are good bikes at a good price if (a) you have the mechanical aptitude to finish the assembly and tune the shifting yourself, and (b) you know how to figure out the size you need from a geometry chart. On the first point, if you have to take the bike to a shop to get it functioning properly, much of your savings will be lost. On the second point, which I would consider the more important of the two, no bike is a good deal if it doesn't fit you.
Now, let me say that I use my cyclocross bike (not a Motobecane) as a commuter and I think it's a great fit, but be prepared to swap in some slick tires. Racing it has turned out to be pretty fun to. You should definitely do that.
Finally, I would go with the Windsor Cyclo over the Fantom Cross, because the components look a little better. There's probably a trade-off somewhere. The Fantom Cross looks like it has better wheels.