I'm plotting ahead to two potential hardtail builds (which may get no further than potential) to solve a problem I have. Interestingly enough, with the FWD, I'd think a good front suspension might be enough, especially if I bias the weight (i.e. me) a bit more forward. But to even out the ride on the backside, what would be wrong with rolling a wider low PSI tire on the rear to take some of the road noise out? AFAIK, it wouldn't compromise performance enough to matter except possibly not having the rear suspension to keep the weight forward on the drive wheel. Oh, when I say performance, I don't mean speed or racing, just normal cruzin for shopping, visiting, etc. Big hills are not an issue, there are a couple with real steep grades, but all can be bypassed trivially, so we are talking about a few percent of grade.