I guess I am a little worried about losing speed on my commute. I have been commuting (11 miles roud trip) since 2010, and once I got my eating habits under control, went from 315lb to 220lb with no exercise other than bike commuting to work. I'm a commuter, but one that likes to break a sweat! Last year I bought a Giant CFR-1 from craigslist, but I just sold it because I am still to heavy for that bike and New Orleans streets are just too rough. But it got me used to averaging 15 MPH on the way to work even with stops. I am a little worried with doubling the weight of my bike, giving up the STI shifters, and going down in speeds, I'll be straining to achieve a 12 mph average.

I do see what you're saying though. I could simply do some regular bike maintenance, buy 27 inch tires, and spend a whole lot less money.