All kidding and pushing aside, if the time isn't right, the time isn't right.

I don't know what level of componentry is on that bike. It is probably probably similar to the componentry listed at:
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/terry/madeleine.html

Entry level components. Solid, but not high end. Gearing is to the lower (easier) end, so if you're not super strong, you'll have a lot of gears to choose from.

But, that bike was designed for touring. As such, she screams to have have a rack. The image on Sheldon Brown's site looks like it has full mounts for a rear rack. That said, this is a touring bike. By definition, it will be easy going--keeps a straight line and doesn't have quick steering like a racing bike.

Why this over a Trek? That I cannot answer for you. In the end, it all comes down to fit. Do you have time to window shop at a bike shop? Put a couple of bikes up on a trainer and spin. How do they fit? See what you can learn? Oh, and then, the bike shop that treats you best is where you take your bike for service. Bike shops make money on service and parts, too, even if you buy the bike elsewhere.