Hello, so here's my 2016 GT Grade Sora aluminum framed bike. I still have the lends kwests sitting the basement somewhere. I just didn't like them much if at all and straight from the LBS I didn't like the harshness of the ride either.

I'm 255 pounds and commute on this thing daily. I have had 28mm GP4000SII'S and now I've moved on to 32mm GP4seasons that I love.
I've also added an axiom streamlined disc deluxe rack and planet bike 35mm hardcore fenders. I left the stock bar tape that was like a grey cork and just laid lizard skin 3.2mm bar tape over that cork. It took the sting out of most bumps in the bike. My bike is very comfortable for me. Again, the triple triangle as has been noted by other is pretty stiff. Just kinda use your legs to lift your butt off the saddle for bumps and you should be good.

I hope that helps