Modern geometry isn't scary (to me) and with slack head tube angles you're more likely to find ascending more difficult IMO. Now is a great time to purchase a bike with dealers still trying to unload 2022 (or earlier) models. I have a Rock Shox Recon on my 2022 Giant FS and it's excellent IMO. You should be able to locate something more than adequate in your price range now (don't wait too long or prices may be back to the old normal when the 2021 & 2022 models are gone).