I had a not dissimilar conundrum end of last year.
I was looking at Richards AC29er but at the end of the day the price tag even 2ndhand was too much for me. With the frame, wheels, forks and shock you are still over £2k. Hardly surprising when the frame alone is almost that at list.
Decided on a Cotic Solaris (with on one rebas) which worked out a LOT less… But not full sus (obviously).
I dont think the Rockstar has a 31.6mm pin. It looks worth a punt at a grand though. I would like a shot on one for sure.
Oh and Richard is a pretty good guy to deal with (Chainline would know and im pretty sure he’s not local either) He’d probably part ex your Nic for you too…