Das Revel Rascal in Review
We were the first magazine in the world to be given the privilege of reviewing the Revel Rascal. After receiving the bike before the official launch, we’ve already clocked up a lot of trail kilometres.
The sitting position on the Revel Rascal is very balanced and you’ll feel at home on the bike after only a few meters of riding. On flat terrain, the moderate seat tube angle makes for an even distribution of weight, and while this does get shifted a bit further back when you start climbing, making you pedal from behind, this is really only noticeable on particularly steep sections. The suspension of the Rascal is extremely sensitive, absorbing even the tiniest bumps on fire roads. The RockShox PIKE with the new Debonair air cartridge offers similar characteristics and works perfectly in unison with the rear end. On climbing trails, the Rascal provides lots of traction and effortlessly climbs over roots and rocks. However, the suspension’s sensitivity comes with a price as the rear linkage tends to bob slightly on steady climbs. If that’s something that bothers you, simply flip the climb switch on the RockShox Super Deluxe shock. All in all, the Rascal is still an efficient climber, and with its high level of comfort, it keeps you fresh for the upcoming descent.
When it comes to descending, the Revel Rascal scores just as well. The geometry offers a good combination of agility on tight trails and stability at higher speeds. The low bottom bracket provides an integrated feeling on the bike, while the low standover height and the long-travel dropper post offer plenty of freedom of movement.
The suspension effortlessly smoothes out the roughest chunks of trail and is able to generate a lot of grip together with the proven MAXXIS Minion tires. Despite its manoeuvrability, the Rascal remains composed at higher speeds and provides a lot of rider confidence. The rear linkage is generous with its travel, but it lacks somewhat in mid-stroke support. Very aggressive riders and those who prefer a poppier ride feel should be able to sort this out with additional volume spacers in the shock.
The spec gave us little cause for criticism. The 800 mm wide handlebar isn’t to everyone’s taste, but it can easily be cut down to your preferred width – better too wide than too narrow! The cockpit looks nice and tidy thanks to SRAM’s Matchmaker clamps, and the cable routing has been solved brilliantly. Our test bike was specced with stiff Industry Nine carbon wheels, but if you want to, you can use the online configurator to pick a more affordable aluminium alternative. The stock X01 build comes with Guide RSC brakes, our test bike was equipped with the pricier Guide Ultimates. Although the Ultimate is noticeably better than the cheaper models in the Guide range, with such a potent bike we would have liked at least a 200 mm rotor at the front, or more powerful brakes, like the Code RSC.
Conclusion
The competition in the trail and enduro segment is stronger than ever, but as a newcomer to the scene, Revel has succeeded in creating an impressive bike. The Revel Rascal is an extremely versatile trail bike with confident handling and lots of attention to detail. The stock rear suspension could offer a bit more mid-stroke support – but with a bit of tuning, you can easily remedy this issue. If you’re looking for a bike that isn’t (yet) a common sight on the trails, you should definitely consider the Revel.
More information at revelbikes.com
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
