The 27.5 is all you need, I am 6'1 and 210 with the large frame and 27.5. I wouldn't want 29 tires. As a commuter it is plenty of bike. I'm not sure why you would think you need 29.
I upgraded my chainring to a 46 tooth, you need a longer chain for that. It is easy to change out the chainring and I had to do very little adjustment. You may be able to keep your chain with a 44 tooth.
129 million trees have died since 2010 from drought, bark beetle and climate change in National Forests in California. note that is National Forests controlled by the Feds. To remove a dead tree costs about $250 each, you do the arithmetic.
More people have built homes in the urban forest...
Water should not be used on any lithium fire because pouring water on a lithium battery fire can make it more difficult to extinguish it because of the reduction of lithium in water, which leads to the release of hydrogen, which is highly flammable; the potential of reigniting a fire is much...
TidalForce Electric Bikes by Wavecrest
These ebikes had a rear hub motor and a front wheel hub with the batteries.
I have 2 bikes I built using their S750 frame.
http://www.electrikmotion.com/Tidal%20Force%20Electric%20Bike.htm
If you have a lot of steep hills and that will be a major part of your rides a mid drive is probably better. Hub motors have trouble on steep hills take low gears and a lot of pedaling. Although to some degree it may vary on hub motors depending on the windings of the motor.
You are still more likely to die from a collusion with an auto. Just ride safely no matter where you go.
Bike Commuters Are Dying in Record Numbers
https://www.outsideonline.com/2390525/bike-commuter-deaths
The best sources of info are the blm website:
https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/fort-ord-national-monument
Also good trail info is available from:
https://www.mtbproject.com/
There isn't just one trailhead point to start. There are several possible starting...
Spent a couple of days camping adjacent to Fort Ord National Monument. For ebikers there are paved roads, gravel roads and singletracks all in one place.
The active military base has been closed for 25 years, however, all the explosives haven't been removed yet. A large area is still fenced...
Here is a bike helmet with a chin guard from Fox which has highly rated helmets.
https://www.foxracing.com/proframe-matte-helmet/23310.html?dwvar_23310_color=001&dwvar_23310_size=S&cgid=