The options for a solid commuter are endless, having said that most of my fleet qualifies and does commuter duty. In my personal opinion I think a rack is required for commuting but I like having a waterproof pannier and I am not crazy about carrying stuff on my back when I ride.

Love my Surly, while I was giving it an overhaul My SOMA and my Grand Jubile all did commuter duty. The only bike I did not press into commuter duty was the Allez ( irreplaceable if I were to wreck ) and the Ridley( which is on the stand being overhauled as we speak) .