All,

thanks a bunch for the feedback and advice.

I did not know 'tout-terrain' although I do spend a fair share of my time looking out for interesting bike brands.
Their catalogue was quite impressive and the x-over is close to be the ideal bike I am looking for.

2190 Euros will definitively be too steep for me though.

Still looks amazing.

Surprisingly enough Kona was already on my radar screen (Jake The Snake). I was looking for a good second-hand deal but to no avail...

Thanks again.

I'll keep following the thread in case new ideas would pop up.

Safe ride ....

P.