I’m in almost exactly the same position as the OP.. Mrs Yunki has decided that if she can’t beat ’em.. join ’em..
She’s also wanting a regular exercise regime to help recover after pooping out yunki Jr MkII next month..
She can ride a bike but wants to build fitness and confidence and skills so we’ll be starting at the beginning with lots of family trail centre rides and trailering round the woods etc..
We picked up a second hand entry level hardtail from ebay (Kona Firemountain) which I am making as light and as comfy as I can as reasonably as possible.. that way if it only gets taken out the shed a dozen times per year it’s no problem but if she gets into we can build it up to suit her needs as we go..
FWIW I’ve been riding over 25 years and still haven’t found a need for a full sus..