Although happy to spend less. Looking for something to cover mixed ground quickly, natural rides in the lakes and trail centres.
Looked at laufey so far
Although rack mounts would be a bonus for some touring but not essential.
Have a 2020 Chromag Rootdown 29er steel hardtail build in M/L I’m trying to sell for £1250 plus postage if any good. PM me for details.
Vitus sentier? M/L are currently in stock at wiggle
If you can find one, i am very happy with my Ragley Big Al. For under £1400 you get a Deore groupset, Marzocchi Z2 fork, proper Maxxis tyres and a Brand X dropper. Its a solid bit of kit and although my first hardtail for many moons, it rides really well.
Its a 29er, but they do an equivalent bike in 27.5 if you want smaller wheels.
Thats assuming you can find anyone with stock.
Otherwise the Nukeproof Scout is a good shout or the Vitus as mentioned above.
bit of a wait but these do the job
https://alpkit.com/products/sonder-transmitter-nx-eagle
^^^
Okay that one's a bit over but they start from £1k. Less good bits than some of those above.