I am getting a Salsa TimberJack 27.5+ in XL with Velo Orange Crazy bars.The handlebars help with hand positions to keep my hands from going numb. I had a Trek Marlin 6 with a stem riser. I liked it but decided I wanted something with more tire. I can run still run 29s if I want. My size is a little bigger than yours. My usual ride is 11 miles in mixed trails and road.