What are you doing with this bike? You said it will mainly see road use, what else? Commuting?

I wonder because like I said earlier, the giant aRx has a solid fork with spots for fenders and rack, so that's awesome. With the fat tires you won't need suspension to soak up bumps, jump 6" curbs, etc.

If it was me I'd buy the rigid, then buy a used air shock to swap on if I really needed it.

I have a Giant mtb, so I'm biased for Giant. Giants been in the game a long time and it's hard to beat on price vs quality.

In the end, doesn't really matter. Buy what looks good/fits the best/is most convenient for you.

Also look for deals on 2017 models.