So the finance is all done on my bikes and I’m slightly idly thinking of a new FS frame to replace my bandit which is 150 out back and has a 150 fork on it.

By current standards it could be a little longer and slacker so I was wondering what frames the hive mind might suggest. Demos are pretty scarce in north Devon so vicarious experience greatly appreciated!
It needs to be:

Realistically no more than £1700 frame and shock
Capable of taking my existing fork and 27.5 wheels (although I’m sure I could boost fy my rear if necessary) so no 29ers or plus bikes.
Must climb well and be fun and nimble down. The bandit has kinda hit the sweet spot with this and I don’t want a bike that hates climbing.

I ride a hard tail too so the fs gets used for exmoor, quantocks, trail centres and odd days out in Wales/peaks/mendips.

I guess the obvious options are the scout or cotic flare?
Maybe an airdrop edit or rocket or aeris? They’d rip the descents but would they be too much bike for most days out?

A bit rambling I’m afraid – im really just talking myself into it so any suggestions greatly appreciated!