So, I have an HV30, and yes I would have preferred a proper focus ring. The little focus wheel is on the left hand side near the lens.

Using it on a tripod, coming up from under the cam and using your left hand thumb on the focus dial with the forefinger wrapped under the lens seems to be the most usable solution.

I love this camera, but you have to wonder why Canon didn't go the extra few quid and provide a proper focus ring.