The aeris 9 is so close to what I want, but not quite enough to go for it.
Can run a 160mm fork or a longer dual crown, yes please.
Can run as long as possible dropper, yes.
Can run a water bottle, yes.
External cable routing, yes.
Aluminium, yes.
Mullet day to day, no. My reckoning would put it with a 160mm fork with a touch over 63* ha, about 330mm bb height and a probably 76* seat angle.
Wheres this airdrop ticks all the boxes for me, for an adaptable enduro/uplift bike that will be fun.