The geometry of a 29er is more similar to a road bike than are 26er mountain bikes.
For example, the head and seat angles of a Surly Karate Monkey, a 29er, and a Surly Pacer, a road bike, are identical.
So, it makes sense to consider them for road use. If you think about it, these are the closest thing to a do everything bike.
The Gary Fisher's are inexpensive for a complete bike. I did a little research and right away I saw complaints about the fork. That would make me want to pass on these bikes.
I wouldn't want a suspension fork on a road bike anyway.
The thing about 29ers that distinguishes them from hybrids is that they can use the widest tires available.
For example, a Schwalbe Big Apple 29 x 2.0 would fit on a 29er but not on a hybrid.
The ride of this tire is fantastic, making suspension superfluous.
You could consider buying a Karate Monkey that has a rigid fork and room for the fattest tires.
It's not available as a complete bike so you'd have to build your own.
The frame is something like $425. It's a very hip bike and very popular.