"However, my commute is far too long and I feel geared bikes are more suitable for the time being."

Not sure what you mean by "too long"... I commute 46 miles round trip on my fixie-- Reston VA to DC. There are hills--and I add a tough one on my way home. I average about the same amount of time commuting fixed as I did with gears. I have ridden centuries on it--and use it for group rides on occasion.

Bought my KHS flite 100 from my LBS four years ago--on closeout. Have modified it slightly--carbon fork and changed the handlebars--and the gearing from 48*16 to 48*18. It is definitely my favorite commuter, and I ride it as often as I can. Put over 6000 miles on it last year.

Once you have tried it, you will understand... riding it is something you can't explain--

train safe-