Just got back from a local shop that carries Jamis bikes. I road three bikes, the Coda, their single speed Beatnik and the Ventura Sport. I told the person working our situation and he recommended either the Coda or the Beatnik because they are steel framed and according to him more they are generally more suitable for commuting.

I didn't really care for the Beatnik, but figured I would try it. SS isn't for me, I guess. Although,I did like the steating position. It felt like it was somewhere between a mountain bike and a road bike. The Coda felt too much like what I am already on. It felt faster, but I not too much different. The Ventura was pretty nice, I've never really been on a road bike before so it took some adjusting. I think I like the idea of a steel bike for the commute more. Not 100% on a road bike though. I'm just not sure if the aggressive seating position is exactly what I want to be in for the whole ride. Something between the position of the Beatnik and the Ventura would probably be ideal. Hopefully soon I can get on some more bikes.