I'm a big fan of flat bar road bikes to begin with. I just like the position, the feel, whatever. I have several flat bar road bikes & enjoy them all, but I really enjoy the 'feel' of the Trek 7.5. It is more comfortable than my Marin (The Marin is faster). For my $, it's just been a great commuter. Also, it's been pretty bomb-proof. No real problems with it since I've had it.

I am a big Specialized fan though, so I'd definitely recommend test-riding the Sirrius as well.