http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/..._cross_cx2.htm w/28mm Schwalbe Marathon Plus. Stock tires are too soft for asphalt. Get full coverage fenders 700 FE2506 from www.bikeisland.com No shipping. Strong combination of climbing gearing and top end. Sora/Taigra comps are fine. The cantis are a little iffy for your decent. May want to go to discs.

But, no I don't think you're crazy. Plenty of room to the right for commuting w/comparatively minimal danger.