How to remove magic spells and still balance the classes?

[Valiantheart]

I would go the d20 Modern route. The generic classes are already there to be used all you would have to do is tweak a few advanced classes instead of rewriting all of the core ones.

 

[Remathilis]

Grab the Wheel of Time Book.

Use the Woodsman, the Fighter Replacement, and the Wanderer classes, as well as the Gleeman PrC. Then add the noble class (a great class.) I'd add a generic priest class (a healer who uses non-magical healing or pseudo-magical healing.) and call yourself ready to play.

I'd also use the defense bonus rating from WoT while you are at it.

 

[LostSoul]

Try giving out bonus feats each level the class would normally gain a spell of a new level. Of levels 1 through 9, not 0 level.

That would give the Bard a bonus feat at levels 2, 4, 7, 10, 13, and 16. These feats should include skill focus, some combat ones (combat expertise, weapon finesse, dodge, mobility, spring attack), and some of those +2/+2 skills.