Appreciate the feedback as I learn the ins-and-outs of the sport. I’m definitely leaning towardds spending a little more. Not $1500 but maybe closer to $900. Ive seen some 2019 Salsa Timberjacks (deore) for around that, and I like the Vitus Nucleus VRS as an option, though they are out of stock right now. Definitely think I want a 1x drivetrain.