I may never bother to pedal again ;-)

[matthewslack]

25kg in a backpack would be the end of me! Most of my stuff goes in panniers or a trailer, only the most delicate stuff on my back.

 

[spanos]

How nice to see a many years later update!

As for your next bike. If you want move away from the an mtb then a hybrid frame will generally have more relaxed geometry than a gravel designed for drop bars.

I always like the look of the Genesis Smithfield with twin toptube as good candidate (but I do love a IGH)

You could have a down tube battery and have some weight on the rack, some in a backpack for better over all balence

Also a surtout ncx suspension seatpost is a game changer, come is 27.2 for hybrids as well

 

[pedalfettal]

You could change the rear brake to a disc-affair: You'd need:

A replacement disk wheel
Frame disk adaptor
Cable-operated disc brake and rotor

You could add the suspension seat post (already suggested)

You could also get a new disk-compatible air-shock front fork.

This'd keep your original bicycle frame, drive-train, etc, etc.

Or purchase a second-hand replacement and rob your existing bike for the motor and parts (mudguards, rack, handle-bar widgets, etc)