Revel

Excellent CBF suspension: efficient climbing, active braking, great traction

More capable geometry without losing the Ranger’s quick feel

Handles bikepacking loads well, and still has good frame storage

Still 2.6″ clearance with ample mud clearance

Big dropper compatibility

Love the Dissector tire spec

Premium pricing with no real budget option

Tricky sizing for tweeners

170mm cranks on all sizes

Transmission complicates rack use

Lots of bearings that will eventually need to be replaced

Lighter, stiffer, faster, and quieter than predecessor

Redesigned CBF suspension with refined kinematics

Improved geometry: slacker head tube (65.7°), steeper seat tube (77°), longer reach, lower BB

Increased travel: 120mm rear, 130mm front

Average 200g lighter across sizes

Massive dropper post insertion and two bottle mounts

Clean cable routing and noise-reducing frame protection

Nicest frame they've ever made, nice lines, well-considered finishing details

Guided cable routing keeps cables out of danger zone

Two water bottle mounts on downtube and accessory mount on top tube

Beefed up front and rear chassis for increased stiffness

Slacker head angle (65.7°), steeper seat angle (77°), longer reach, lower BB

CBF suspension design offers consistent drivetrain forces and wide sag range

More progressive leverage ratio for better small bump compliance

Active and composed braking with anti-rise below 100%

Bike feels planted and trail-focused, good traction and compliance

Sharp handling in corners where support allows

High quality, quiet, easy to live with frame

Best climbing on technical, awkward terrain

Large gaps between sizes

Slightly sluggish climbing feel compared to some peers

Firmer spring rates reduce confidence through chop

Intermittent knock from RockShox Deluxe shock (sample issue)

Not as nimble as true XC bike

Less stable than Tallboy in handling

Potential riders might be happier on longer-travel Rail