All

hate to be the one to break it to ya kid but MTB secretly stands for Must Toke Bongs

What about a lightweight ramp and roll your bike up it, into the truck bed? If awkward - a rope/strap through a ring bolt near the cab. One end attaches to the front of the bike, pull on the other end. Like a winch. Guiding the bike with your other hand. I think you are going to Really enjoy your bike. Some similarities to MX bikes/riding, some differences. EG. due the lighter weight, shorter suspension and no power - negotiating a small log can be made easier, and more controlled by pulling on the bars (“rowing action”) at the right...

I'd recommend the specialized any day. If you were looking at the e bike version of the trance it would be a harder call. Giants "stance" line is their super low end. That means it has "flex point" suspension and very dated geometry. Flex point suspension is rough, especially on an aluminium frame. Giants Maestro suspension is one of my favorite designs, but the Stance is just basic. I've never ridden a giant e bike so I can't say anything about the electrical/motor side of the bike, but the rear suspension on that bike will feel "okay" at best. The...

I’m also in that category: old washed up MX racer (Still race, well at least line up...) While MX gets more “difficult”, with less tracks and more rules, MTB is growing in my area. (And Australia generally) The council (local authorities) have actually built fantastic free tracks (including the jump in the pic, and “Wall of Death” Avatar). I can go for a ride anytime. Fun, exercise and inherent danger - perfect!

Since you have never mountain biked, my first thought would be to go with the lesser expense. If you love the sport, progress rapidly and can find fault with the Giant, then you could always upgrade components.