Pedal-axle extenders do exist. Example:
http://www.jbimporters.com/web/check...t_number=41617 I can't find a Scott model called the "Charger," could it have been something else?
Regarding the wheel-size choice, I'm at the XC-racing end of the spectrum and stick with 26" (specifically, high-end 26) because I find it's faster for me. Acceleration, cruising speed, maneuverability at high or low speeds, low weight... all the trump cards for what I like to do are held by 26. But in the end, (1) buy what YOU like, and (2) remember bikes aren't forever, you can always get something different later... don't miss out on riding just because you're not 110% positive you've found THE perfect bike.