Wanting to go to full suspension.

[Cybersnow]

I am currently riding a Zen hardtail that is a step through with a bafang m820 and rohloff rear axel. It is a very heavy bike (close to 80lbs). I want to go to a full suspension but need it to be a lot lighter and at least as powerful. Cost ceiling for this bike is about $7,500. I ride in very steep mountain trails and am in my late 70s.

 

[Mikerb]

Any mid range enduro emtb will fit the bill

 

[steve_sordy]

A quick Google reveals that the Bafang m820 motor delivers 75Nm max torque, with maybe a bit more for a few seconds.

Most of the motors found on mid-range full suss emtbs will deliver that or more.
At around 26kg they will also be 10kg lighter than your Zen hardtail (80lbs or 36kg).

 

[juggernaut]

I am currently riding a Zen hardtail that is a step through with a bafang m820 and rohloff rear axel. It is a very heavy bike (close to 80lbs). I want to go to a full suspension but need it to be a lot lighter and at least as powerful. Cost ceiling for this bike is about $7,500. I ride in very steep mountain trails and am in my late 70s.

Doesn’t your Zen Photon Ultra have a M620?

 

[Cybersnow]

Yep, typo!
there is plenty of power there but the weight and suspension suck,

 

[jeanmarc]

I would take the Giant Reign E+(1,2,3) for a quick test... There are many manufacturer's bike options that will all be around 22-25kg with plenty of power. You will love this... Enjoy!