I purchased a 2006 Trek 7.3 FX for commuting, touring, and errand type rides. It is well suited for this type of riding. I looked at a Sirrus which seemed more responsive, but did not seem as durable. I looked at the FCR series, but no frame mounts for a rack swayed me away.

All are good bikes. Lately, I have prefered the riser bars with bar ends to drop bars. My hands get numb on all types of bars, but ergo grips with bar ends in the middle of the bar helps me the most. Look up bikepacker67's Antler Bar thread for some good ideas.