To each their own...some people treat the commute as a race against the clock (whether driving or riding) Some of us take it easy and enjoy the trip. My preferred commuter is a bike with the upright position. For long haul touring I will take a bike with drop bars with the bars just above seat level. I tried commuting on drop bars and while it might have been a minute or two (if that) faster over 12 miles I was more comfortable on the upright 3 speed. Also depending on the type of commute. Mine was in city traffic were you lost most of your time at traffic lights and intersections.

Aaron