I dont know much about the Hardrock from personal use.
But among other bikes, i have a Yukon in the shed.

Its a great little bike. It can take the trails for sure, and its a good commuter too. Nice and comfortable, not on the racy side of geometry. Nice and relaxed. Im not sure about the US spec, but we get Dart forks (i think its a 3 for 08, but mines an 06 with a Dart 2) and low end Shimano discs. They work well, but if youve had bikes for a while and are a good rider, maybe you should look at something a bit more upper level? Say a Trek or one of the other Giant Hardtails?