People love them or hate them. They are just rebranded Fujis and KHS type stuff for the most part. Same as whats on a bike shop floor except they cut corners on tires and stuff like that. Ive bought one and the few other people I know who have, have no issues at all. The only complaint I had on mine is that it was packed poorly and the frame came dinged. I would not consider using one as a commuter bike until I changed out the tires at minimum, so you are looking at another 50-100 to any money you spend on the bike. Thats just me, though . . .
I like the opinion above(#6), if its a nice bike you are comfortable on, slap on a freewheel or buy a 3sp / coaster back wheel. They can be had for 150 or so.