Rascal

The Revel Rascal V2 is a premium 29-inch trail bike built around 130mm of rear travel and a 140mm fork. Positioned as a versatile all-rounder rather than a scaled-down enduro sled, it relies on the Canfield Balance Formula suspension layout to deliver a highly efficient, active pedaling platform. This second-generation frame retains the original's core intent but introduces a ground-up carbon redesign that sheds weight while increasing rear-end stiffness.

Revel also modernized the chassis with SRAM UDH compatibility, upsized pivot bearings, and an integrated debris guard. The Rascal V2 suits riders who prioritize technical climbing traction and agile, engaged descending over brute-force plowing. It thrives on rolling, varied terrain where its responsive chassis and supportive suspension reward an active riding style.

Gen V2

Build

Size

Stack	618mm
Reach	471mm
Top tube	625mm
Headtube length	104mm
Standover height	728mm
Seat tube length	445mm

Fit and geometry

The Rascal V2 utilizes a moderate geometry package that prioritizes quick handling over straight-line stability. A 65.5-degree head tube angle pairs with a 44mm fork offset to keep the steering responsive. While this agility is an asset on tight singletrack, some riders found the front end twitchy at speed, a sensation occasionally amplified by the short 40mm stems specified on several builds.

Reach measurements have grown slightly from the previous generation, sitting at 471mm for a size Large, and Revel has expanded the fit range by adding an XXL option. The effective seat tube angle steepens across the size run—starting at 76 degrees and reaching 77 degrees on the XXL—helping to keep rider weight centered over the bottom bracket during steep ascents.

One polarizing geometric choice is the constant 436mm chainstay length used across all five frame sizes. While this keeps the rear end nimble and easy to whip through corners for shorter riders, taller cyclists on the XL and XXL frames may find the front-to-rear balance slightly disproportionate, requiring more deliberate weight shifts to maintain front-wheel traction.

Builds

The Rascal V2 lineup spans four primary build kits, ranging from a Shimano Deore package to premium SRAM Transmission options. Across the higher tiers, Revel consistently specifies robust suspension components, pairing RockShox Lyrik Ultimate forks with Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shocks. This heavier-duty suspension choice signals the bike's capability and provides excellent mid-stroke support.

Drivetrain and braking duties on the upper builds are handled by SRAM's X0 or XX Eagle Transmission groupsets and four-piston brakes, ensuring reliable shifting under load and consistent stopping power. Dropper post travel varies by frame size, though some testers noted the 125mm posts on size Small frames feel restrictive.

A significant value differentiator in the lineup is the wheelset. While lower builds utilize alloy Crankbrothers or DT Swiss hoops, the top-tier XX Transmission kit—and an available upgrade on the X0 build—features Revel’s proprietary RW30 Fusion Fiber carbon rims. These thermoplastic wheels are noted for their muted, comfortable ride quality. However, prospective buyers should weigh the premium componentry against the reality of Revel's current business status, as liquidation pricing may offer steep discounts at the cost of future manufacturer support.

Shimano Deore

$4,999

SRAM Eagle 90 Kit

$5,199

SRAM X0 Transmission Kit

$5,199

SRAM XX Transmission Kit

$5,199

Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the Rascal V2 for its pedaling efficiency and technical climbing prowess. The suspension generates high anti-squat values that resist pedal bob without sacrificing traction, allowing the rear wheel to "yield dutifully whenever the climb got choppy" (Theradavist). Testers found the bike accelerates eagerly and maintains momentum well on rolling terrain, making it an engaging partner for long days in the saddle.

When pointed downhill, the bike exhibits a sporty, agile character that rewards precise line choices. It excels at generating speed through pumping and popping off trail features. However, testers note that it requires an attentive pilot when the trail turns steep and rough. The relatively conservative geometry and short wheelbase mean the bike "doesn’t encourage you to seek them out" (Bike Magazine) when it comes to the gnarliest terrain, and it can feel nervous at high speeds compared to slacker alternatives.

A recurring critique centers on the stock Continental tires, particularly the Endurance compound, which multiple reviewers found "downright unrideable on wet rocks" (PinkBike). Additionally, while the frame construction is highly regarded, recent news of Revel ceasing operations casts a shadow over long-term warranty support and proprietary parts availability, fundamentally altering the bike's ownership proposition.