jep...don't overlook the Norco line. You may be pleasantly surprised for what your money will get you.
I snubbed Norco's for many years. A LBS sold them exclusively. Last year I saw a Norco Indie3, in a pawn shop. It was used but minty condition at 1/2 price of new. The Norco replaced a 90's rigid Marin MTN bike which I enjoyed riding the asphalt with slicks. But it was time for something with modern ergos (disc brakes, 700c wheels, etc).
I didn't want the maintenance or potential for component failures so I went with the cable discs and no suspension. While the frame is aluminum the forks on the Indie3 are steel which I prefer to dampen some of the rough spots on the road.

Like what MRT2 suggested....why not just replace some stuff on your 7.2 FX until you can properly shop for one.....