I would like to thank the members of BF for shifting my focus from venting about my lousy commute to justifying why I need another bike

I've actually been on the lookout for a rigid frame MTB or cheap commuter a-la the Surly Crosscheck. The Schwinn won't accept a fatter tire than is already on there, and the geometry is tight. The bike fits me great, but I think a little longer wheelbase would be more comfortable. Larger tires are definitely a necessity but rolling resistance is a concern, as I still like to ride fast when I have the opportunity.

I see used Specialized Hardrocks all the time on Craigslist, would one of these make a good base for a commuter? I like the idea of building up a beater conversion rather than buying a new bike, since I will be locking it up against a bunch of rust buckets. I'm pretty competent mechanically and would prefer to do some wrenching myself rather than buying a commuter-ready bike.

Thanks for the input guys, I'm sure my wife will appreciate me buying another bike, at least I can blame this one on BF. "They told me to..."