Trek STP 200 – Lost Frame Design?

I recently picked up this beat up STP 200 for $55. Brakes were missing, chain was all tangled up, frame is all scratched up. However, the suspension felt great, wheels were mostly true and bearings felt good. So I bought it.

This is a very unique and interesting frame design because it has a small 20mm travel rear suspension, really smooths out the ride but can still sprint without losing much. This design was only made for 3 years (I think 00, 01, 02) Frame is OCLV made in America carbon. Scratched up but these frames can take a beating.

I decided to scavenge for some parts out of the part bin and built this up with some drop bars. All in with new tires, chain, bars, brakes, shifters I'm in at about $250

Why did manufacturers drop this design? Seems like all full suspension bikes have larger travel suspension or are a hardtail.