Yeah one is definitely the atb for covering rough ground over a long ride (who is it that pioneered that in the UK…name escapes me) and the Combe is for having a good bit of fun on mountain bike trails. I was looking at it before I went with the Starling.
That’s a pretty mad choice.
Have you looked at the Clandestine Combe? 27.5 wheels, short rear travel, space for frame bag.