A higher handlebar stem, and fatter tires help.
I converted an old Univega Nuovo Sport to 650B. The 38mm wide tires with 50lbs pressure or less are good for lousy roads and dirt trails are good on trails and rough roads. I use a Brooks B-17, but not everyone likes them. Saddles, handlebar shape and height are personal preferences so you have to find what suits you.
A fork with a bend near the drop out might absorb road shocks better than a stright fork.
What are you riding now?