Originally Posted by
MarcusT
Going with a Gates is going to significantly raise your cost.
I'm not sure if models available in Europe and the USA are the same. But one that fills the bill is the Bulls Copperhead EVO HD 750 Wave. As a work bike I would suggest the step through frame, but as an MTB a top bar would be more durable.. The Cube Reaction is also a valid contender.
The Bulls Copperhead EVO HD 750 Wave is the one from that brand that caught my attention. I can get one of them for ~$3k locally.
The Cube line is still being investigated.