Gee, I'm a bit late. Guess that's what happens when ya don't check the forums daily.
*sigh*
Stalker,
As Havok mentioned, I own the HardRock displayed in your post.
Initially, I was set on a dual-suspension bike. However, after much research, I decided on a hardtail.
Best decision I made.
Price/Quality was the determining factor. I didn't have $1,800 USD to purchase my dream bike, with front and rear suspension. Additionally, trusting life and limb on bike that perhaps traded frame manufacturing quality and other crucial componets for the dual suspension aspect, didn't appeal to me.
Hardtail it was. I checked out Trek, Fisher, Giant, Kestrel, Cannondale, GT, and Schwinn. Came to rest on the Specialized array of fine bicycles. They built what I was looking for, in the price range I could afford.
So I ride the Hardrock. It's got a stout, yet (fairly) light frame. Components are hardy enough to take some fair abuse, and still crank out the fun.
One thing that really surprised me, the front suspension makes a heck of a difference - more than I expected. Coupled with the well-built frame, this bike is very efficient.
If I ever upgrade, I'm getting another Specialized hardtail. I've fallen in love, and it's great.
Tires are fine. I've ridden in both single-track, technical trails, and paved asphalt. A little noisy on the road, due to width. Tire pressures range from 35-80psi though, for the "default" rubber.