My wife bought one of the new Specialized Hardrocks herself. Honestly, it's a great bike. Good for commuting, can carry heavy loads, and good components for what she's doing. It should last her a life time.

However, she needs to take the subways. Which requires carrying a bike down the stairs... reason #1 I commute by single speed. She's 5'1" and tiny. Carrying this monstrosity of a bike is impossible... for 95% of all humans. Specialized may as well make them out of lead.

Last week, I bought her a Specialized Dolce' (I have a pretty kickass Specialized connection). It's light, zippy, and looks fun to upgrade over time. So that's her commuter and the Hardrock will be the grocery getter.

Basically, V1k1ng is right.