I’m joining the pro suspension fork crowd. The roads in my area are very potholed and alligator cracked. The sidewalks have those expansion cracks and many have been pushed up by tree roots. My Trek DS smooths out the surface for me. Also, I have the option of trying out some beginner single track trails. Yep. I chose correctly for my situation. Take your time and choose what’s right for you.
Good Luck. Let us know how you’re doing.