So many variables come into play it's not a case of this brand or that bike. You may be 300LBS, you may like to ride slow, fast. The perfect commuter bike is perfect for you, your style of riding, etc. I will say this - I went with a Kona Jake The Snake as I wanted a tough road bike and that's exactly what a Cyclocross bike is. A tough road bike. After riding for over a yr I'll say this - avoid canti brakes on road style bikes. Horrible and dangerous. I'm going to get plenty of stick for saying that i just know it. Don't let anybody tell you to get big fat tyres either. Again try different sizes out until your happy. I went from 28 to 35 to 23 to 25. 25's are perfect for ME. I'm not going to say they are perfect for you. Others on BF will try and convince you this way or that - try for yourself.