Having ridden numerous 130mm travel mountain bikes that often felt like a compromise, I usually gravitate towards bikes with more or less travel. However, when I tested Revel’s latest Rascal V2, I was pleasantly surprised by its exceptional performance in challenging terrain, playful nature, and smooth climbing abilities, making it a top contender in the mid-travel bike category.
Choosing a mountain bike nowadays can be both simpler and more complex due to the abundance of high-quality options available. Revel’s V2 Rascal is one of those exceptional bikes that stand out among the crowd, offering significant improvements over the original model.
The first Rascal was introduced in 2019 and quickly became Revel’s bestseller since then, according to the brand’s founder, Adam Miller.
For the V2 version, Revel made substantial and minor adjustments to the 29-inch wheel Rascal, enhancing its efficiency and capability. Changes included a revamped carbon layup, upgraded pivot bearings, refined geometry, along with minor improvements like new carbon internal cable guides and a universal derailleur hanger.
During my rides on the 140mm front/130mm rear travel Revel Rascal in Vermont’s challenging terrain, which included wet and slippery conditions, the bike excelled in all-mountain and even enduro riding scenarios.
In summary: The updated Revel Rascal V2 impressed me with its smooth pedaling and outstanding capabilities, solidifying its place as one of my favorite mid-travel bikes. Whether tearing through fast trails or tackling technical descents, the Revel Rascal V2 proved to be a versatile and capable all-rounder that excelled at every turn.
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Fork
RockShox Lyrik Ultimate 140mm -
Drivetrain
SRAM X0 Eagle transmission -
Brakes
SRAM Code RSC -
Cockpit
Trail 1 The Crocket Carbon Handlebar, Trail 1 The Viking Alloy Stem 35×40 -
Dropper post
Bike Yoke Revive 2.0 -
Wheels
Crank Brothers Systhesis Alloy Rims, Industry Nine 1/1 Hubs -
Tires
Continental Kryptotal-F Trail 29 x 2.4 Soft Front, Continental Xynotal Trail 29 x 2.4 Endurance Rear
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Capable across a wide range of terrain -
Feels much lighter than it is when riding -
Incredible traction -
Attractive color selection
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Heavier than some mid-travel bikes -
No XS size
Revel Rascal Frame Enhancements
The Rascal V2 underwent a complete redesign, emphasizing a new geometry and carbon layup while maintaining its suspension characteristics within the same category.
Revel established an office in Taiwan for enhanced production and quality control, along with upgrading the bike’s hardware like bolts, bearings, and frame hardware to superior quality and tolerances.
