IMO, suspensions, front or rear are horrible on pavement. They just sap too much energy. If you like the trek that much more, you might consider a change to a rigid fork. perhaps the raleigh's fork will work.

Personally, I think ten miles is a bit long of a ride on a MTB, which I assume these both are. I suggest you look into a roadie. CLis a great place to look. You might even find someone out there that is a little roadie heavy and in the market for a MTB and work out a trade.

The bottom line here is the "best" commuter is the one that gets used. if 10 miles on a slower bike wears you down more, and ends up sitting more than a faster bike would, then it is the wrong bike.