I ride in NYC and I have two bikes, both drop bars, both with a three speed IGH, one converted from single speed. When I used to commute, I used the single speed. I find both bikes perfect for my use, which is exercise/fitness.
If I commute by bike again, I’m sure they’ll be perfect for that. In fact, every time I get bike envy and start thinking about “a real road bike,” I take a ride and realize I have all I need. I’m not particular about cadence; shift down if it’s windy or hilly, spin up if I want to go faster, shift up if I want to go really fast. But I can see needing more range if I venture north of the city, which is why I’m toying with the idea of a State 4130 Road.