Commuting - help me, i'm dying

Well... maybe not dying but I have a problem. I have some cash in my wallet that desperately wants to get out. Say about $450. I want to buy a roadbike, that has some commuting possibilities. I was looking at the Tommaso Capri for $410 on www.bikeswholesale.com -Well, I would upgrade some components and such as time goes on but any opinions on if it would be ok for commuting if I just buy it now? Can it live up to my 5-20 mile commute alright? What kind of bike is it classified as? Can I use it for basic touring? Any help would be appreciated, but please post your opinion on the bike before you send me in another direction bike wise-just a note to some. I'm not exactly pro(hahaha), but I want something that could atleast start me out on serious commuting. Is the Capri the right ride for me?

The tyre clearance looks a bit tight, but you should be able to fit fenders with 25mm. For an all-weather commuter/tourer I would be happier with clearance for 32mm with fenders, which means a frame built for long drop caliper brakes, or cantelever ones.

At least it has threaded eyelets and the gearing ratios are good. Did I see luggage rack fittings on the seat-tube? I cant tell from the pic. Upgrading is not a good value way to go, its much cheaper to buy the components on the bike.

Its not really suitable for loaded touring, but you could do a week or two of lightweight hostel or supported touring on that bike.
Does it fit you?

buying a bike without riding it first? I think thats a big no no.
bike fit is very important..
is the bike the right size for you? 48cm is very small.
sora is the worst of shimano line. if you are thinking of upgrading
look for a use bike that is close to where you want to be. Upgrades are not cheap. did you try your LBS for used bikes?
you may not have to upgrade at all with them.
well my .02 I would pass on this one.

Originally posted by ahuman
buying a bike without riding it first? I think thats a big no no.
bike fit is very important..

This is why I generally refrain from buying bikes on line. If you really are keen on this brand - perhaps you might be better off to find a local distributor in your area.

Nobody seems to understand why I posted this. I know absolutely nothing about this bike/what its built for. I was just asking for information.

if i were you i'd take that $450 and buy a yuppie's garage ornament. lots of people buy bikes, hang 'em in their garages, and never ride 'em. check your local newspaper in the classified section and buy a good road bike that's a year or two old but has little usage. lottsa cool cannondales, treks, specialized, etc., etc. that can be had for huge bargains.

i agree with the others that you should try to avoid buying bikes online.

Well... i've just about narrowed it down to a Fuji Ace or along those lines. I'm gonna test ride one this weekend if the dealer will let me. It is kind of the middle of winter and theres a lot of salt on the roads.