I wouldn't look any further than a Surly. I picked up a LHT complete this spring. I commute daily with it and plan to use it for day trips on the extensive rail to trail system we have here. I carry a bit of stuff in rear panniers including an occasonal laptop. It rides so smooth I sometimes forget I am the engine. It replaced an older Fisher Katai MTB that was way too harsh a ride for streets. My LBS recommended it over the crosscheck for the daytrip or longer loaded component of my projected use.