I've got to admit, I've been tempted by a shaft-drive bike, too. The thought of riding in white pants to an Event with DH is tempting. And no chain maintenance. {sigh}

Traditionalists scoff, but I'm not sure why. Probably because it's not what they're used to - and they like to mess with the fiddely bits of a bike.

And you have the right idea, pimp that thing out within an inch of its life. Spend some time at your LBS and online to figure out what you want. Decide on a Look and go for it, big time. Then post pictures.