It's 30 pounds because it is an older, steel bike with lower end components (I think) and I think steel wheels (maybe). None of that is really a terrible thing, it's just what it is. It really is a nice, clean looking bike though.

As for the rough ride you mention, that seems kind of odd for a steel bike. I may have missed this info, but what size/brand/model of tires did you go with. That bike can probably fit some decent size tires, so you could go with a different model tire in a wider size, if it will fit. And if you have steel wheels, aluminum ones will certainly be lighter. Of course, all these things cost money, so it depends how much it bothers you.