yeah, they look cool, but bikes need to be light and comfortable. If you have any hills whatsoever, I'd stay away.

I regularly ride my old cannondale (1997 F700) mtb to work (8 miles one-way). Not sure about the streets in Seattle, but San Diego's are a mess. You'll want something light and nimble for sure, so go for bona fide road bike or mtb with some good city tires. I also own a Lemond road bike, steel, 700x28s, light and fast. But the mtb is more comfortable for commuting. Actually, come to think of it, my benz is the most comfortable commuter I own. heh.

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1982 240 D, 308,000 - 321,127 miles (sold)
1982 300 TD,166,500 - 226,000 miles
1998 E 320, 120,000 - 144,000 miles
2005 C 230 K, 26,000 - 77,000 miles (sold)