Interesting question .... I have asked myself similar question .... are the higher end ....Fox/Rockshox etc ..... forks offering bang fo thee the buck compared to SR's high end forks??? I haven't ridden SR air forks , only coil?? But suspension forks .... you really pay for higher performance...
the Shimano clutch is a very good mechanism that does exactly what it is supposed too .... keeps the chain on the chainring in the rough, stops the chain from slapping around, eliminates the need for a chain guide ... basically introduced with 1x ... to compensate for the chain retaining effect...
If your derailleur's movement is properly set 'limited' through the limit screws you don't need the dork disc... the clues is in the name! New Bike day = Dork Disc Removal Day
let a few pounds of air out, ride and evaluate .... softer 'air spring' will give a more plush ride ..... find the sweet spot for you ... you can always add air .... i'm assuming you have a high pressure shock pump
8500kms on Shimano e8000 on 2018 Merida e120 800....original motor, replaced plenty of consumables and lots of time on the workstand doing the preventative maintenance. All have a 2015 Gedipa Hardtail with the Bosch Performance gen 2 with 4500kms ... doesn't get ridden much.
If your description of the problems you are having is accurate I respectfully suggest that the problem is your riding technique, more specifically your use of raw motor power versus gears and cadence .... spinners are winners .... (higher) cadence matched to the motors optimal torque output as...
Riding E-mtbs is the best physical and 'spiritual' therapy no matter what age or ability ... the number of decisions you make when riding from all the inputs that are coming at you, that you need to process, to stay rubber side down, is great for the brain. My friend, of similar age, 65 + , has...
Since I got the Ergon GP1s dialled in ... they are very adjustable ... I have had zero wrist/carpal tunnel pain .... bought a second pair for when these wear out ... all of my old fogies riding group of (serious??) mountain bikers use them ... steep, rough, fast downhill, hard braking, old...