A curved fork does create a bit more of a comfortable ride due to a little longer wheelbase (as the rake is normally a little longer) and a bit more shock absorbtion. A straight fork with less rake would make it more directly responding to steering and would take a bit of comfort away.

Basically, for a long distance bike I would want a bit more comfort and I would go with a curved fork instead of a straight one. For a short ride I'd go with a little less comfort and a straight fork.