OP may be onto something. 7.7FX does come with a more aggressive stem angle (7 deg). Versatility - hmm you could probably keep up with the roadies, but not for long..depending on one's fitness level. You could certainly cruise all day at 13-14 mph and be very comfortable. Maybe put some 25's and flip the stem and see if you can't get more road bike out of it. Wheelbase is probably longer than most road bikes so handling more stable.

Overall, I would tend to agree with OP on it being a slow upright road bike.