I pretty much ride the hoods. In fact I have some old Shimano RSX brifters I just cleaned up and re-lubed to possibly install on the Envoy. I'm sure my fitness level, or lack of, is a factor for discomfort. Could be the cheap frame or Aluminum fork as well IDK.
I was already considering going to smooth tires on one of the MTB Then I saw some nice used 700c hybrids, so I thought I would investigate that option.