I appreciate the rigid ride of my steel Surly Krampus 29+. It’s relaxed geometry is great for the mixed terrain I ride. However, I often contemplate getting a suspension fork until I remember I have other bikes with a front suspension.
I am still getting used to my Marin Four Corners Elite for off road. I like the rigid, steel fork, but think I’d prefer flat bars instead of drops for mixed use. The jury is still out.