I know it's been a while since the last post in this thread, but I thought it might be helpful to provide a closing update for anyone who references this in the future.

First and foremost, thanks to everyone who offered your opinions and advice. All of your insights were tremendously helpful and appreciated.

After numerous test rides and much deliberation, I decided that the best route was to make some changes to my current bike (2010 Specialized Sirrus Sport) rather than buying a new bike. My wife agreed.

As a result, I had my LBS make the following changes...

- Stem: I added a XLC adjustable stem. The original Specialized stem had a +16 degree angle and was 110mm in length. It just felt a little too aggressive with no ability to adjust.

The new adjustable stem angle range is 0-60 degrees with a 95mm length. Going "up" and "back" really provided some desired comfort.

I may still try the Satori adjustable stem later as well.

- Tires: As mentioned a few posts ago, I tried the Clement X'Plor USH tires last year, but they ended up not being a good fit for my needs.

This time around, I replaced the original 700 x 32 Specialized All Condition Sport with 700 x 40 Kenda Komfort.

As reference, the interior rim width on the original Alex S500 rims is 14mm. For that measurement, even though the "recommended" max tire size is 32-35mm, I've not had any trouble with the 40mm Kendas.

It may be tough to gauge from the pictures below, but the tire clearances between the chainstays and the top of the rim brake cables are about 1/4" each. In other words, the 40's fit with plenty of room to spare.

The recommended pressure range on the Kendas is 50-85 psi. I'm running them at 65 psi compared to 100-110 psi on the original Specialized tires. The lower pressure and wider tires provide a much softer and stable ride with very little difference in speed / rolling resistance.

- Seat / Saddle: This is the next item on the "to do" list.

- Pictures: The album links are below.

Tires: https://www.bikeforums.net/g/album/10019081
Stem: https://www.bikeforums.net/g/album/10019886

Overall, the new setup seems to be the best of both worlds. If I want to go on a leisure / family ride, it's very comfortable now. If I want more of a fitness ride, I can lower the stem quickly and go. The Kenda tires work well for both types of rides.

Thanks again, everyone!