As my other threads note, my supposedly-concluded search for a commuter bike apparently hasn't yet concluded. I was intent to purchase a Specialized Globe City 6 IG8, but the store from which I had set to do so turned out to no longer carry it (of course, it is a 2008 bike).

Now, my sights have turned in favor of another line, which I have recently discovered (thanks to one of the replies to a thread of mine on this board). It seems Breezer designs bicycles almost exclusively for the purpose of commuting (I'm still a bit unclear as to how a "commuter" bicycle differs from a "utility" one, but, whatever). Particularly, their entire line of Town bikes (they make only three lines: Town, Range, and Folding) features internal (hub) gearing and all the other little items that make getting around a city that much easier.

Unfortunately, it's damned difficult to get a Breezer in my area, but, if it's worth it, I might make a bit of a journey.

Does anyone have experience with this manufacturer's bikes? Is a Breezer Uptown comparable to, say, a Specialized (Globe) Vienna Deluxe 3 or a Bianchi Milano Citta (or Alfine) or a Giant TranSend or a Trek Allant or any other more readily-available bike? On its own, is it a reliable, intuitive, well-built machine? The Breezer Web site states the Towns are designed for "short trips," and I wonder how long is too long to qualify as "short."

Thank you, all.