I ALWAYS modify. Truth be said, I might ride just enough so that I can justify modifying more bikes.
What is it about the Hot Rock that you don't like? A 3" stem riser may be all that it takes to put the handlebar into your "sweet" zone. If you decide that you don't like it, you can always take it off.
Also, unless you do quite a bit of serious riding on dirt trails, swap those knobby tires out for some slicks.
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My greatest fear is all of my kids standing around my coffin and talking about "how sensible" dad was.