My max distance for this type of bike would probably be a slow 10 mile one way ride to softball practice or the beach with a cooler on the rack and a backpack.
Well, i had one similar to that specialized you posted but by trek a few years ago, and i used to take it on up to 40 mile rides on a regular basis. i actually find them much more comfortable, and for me thats the biggest issue as far as distance.
As to the "feet on the ground" frame geometry, thats what i like so much about the Giant. That along with the 7 speed single chain ring gears and the great look make it impossible for me to ignore. It's #1 on my gotta try list. The only thing i'm worried about is how high the highest gear is. If it's not at least as high as the high gear on my stumpjumper, who's highest gear is barely fast enough for my tastes, i'll be disappointed.