I have the geared alum. version and it is pretty much a perfect commuter IMHO. Tire clearance, speed, cross levers for traffic, etc. etc.
I did convert to 1X9 and I do think I'd prefer steel, but this is a great bike to start commuting on for the price. I have, and I figure in a year or two I'll upgrade to either a Surly Crosscheck or increase the stable to a Fantom Cross Uno if I continue to ride as much as I have.
Again, I wouldn't jump into gearless right away... or a frame that can't go gears. I've personally been lusting after a single speed myself, but sometimes there are just days where you want to spin in a low gear. Coffee hasn't kicked in, headwinds, etc. You want to make the commute as easy as possible, so getting on the bike is the default option, not a production... but that's just me. This is a conversation better had in the commuting forum
That UNO does look sweet.