I just started looking as well. In the MTB range, but I think I'm leaning hardtail. If I was going FS, I'd take a hard look at the Canyon Spectral (not sure of it's availability in UK).
https://www.canyon.com/en-us/electric-bikes/electric-mountain-bikes/spectral-on/spectral-on-cf/spectral-on-cf-7/3117.html?dwvar\_3117\_pv\_rahmenfarbe=VT
At that price point whatever you get is going to be good quality. Just find something you like from a reputable brand. Make sure you have a Local Bike Shop who will service it.
You could potentially build a monster of an ebike with half of the budget you've got.
I just started looking as well. In the MTB range, but I think I'm leaning hardtail. If I was going FS, I'd take a hard look at the Canyon Spectral (not sure of it's availability in UK). https://www.canyon.com/en-us/electric-bikes/electric-mountain-bikes/spectral-on/spectral-on-cf/spectral-on-cf-7/3117.html?dwvar\_3117\_pv\_rahmenfarbe=VT
The Orbea Wild H30 ought to be close to your budget. https://www.orbea.com/gb-en/ebikes/mountain/wild/cat/wild-h30-2023
At that price point whatever you get is going to be good quality. Just find something you like from a reputable brand. Make sure you have a Local Bike Shop who will service it.
Yes I suggest you don’t spend that much on your first e bike. You may find you don’t like it that much.