Revel Ranger V2, Climbing Machine

Words by Lauren:

The Revel crew sent us a Medium Ranger, XO build that I’ve been riding for the last 6 months. This particular Ranger is the second version of Revel’s XC bike, known as the Ranger V2.

We started this XC Series with a fun rivalry between Santa Cruz and Revel, ultimately wanting to compare the Ranger to my personal bike-the SC Tallboy (120mm/130mm). I quickly realized that a comparison between the Ranger and Tallboy might not be the most fair. It would’ve been a better comparison had I been riding the Santa Cruz Blur. So, while a full comparison between the two bikes won’t happen as part of this review, I can discuss the noticeable differenced between the two bikes below.

For those who are not familiar with Revel Bikes; Revel is a boutique MTB company based out of Carbondale Colorado. Created by Adam Miller, Revel launched their first bike-The Rascal- at the Sedona MTB Fest in 2019. The success of the CBF Suspension platform, combined with the Rascals’ all trail capability, launched Revel into the MTB Industry with a bang. Today, Revel offers all types of bikes for any adventure: the Ranger (XC), the Rascal (Trail), the Rail (Enduro/Park), the Rover (Gravel), the Tweedy (DJ), and the Big Iron (Titanium Fat Bike). Revel designers and engineers aren’t shy when it comes to using new and emerging technology when creating bikes. As an example, Revel recently announced the Rodeo- their first full DH bike made completely from 3D printing!! Check out this amazing bike here!

So now, let’s talk about the new features of the Ranger V2:
– A redesigned rear end offering more lateral stiffness. For me, the bike immediately feels stiffer upon climbing, creating greater efficiency and no need to lock out your rear shock.
– Increased tire and chainring clearance. I rode over some pretty chunky terrain in Arizona, and only scrapped the chainring once. So, certainly the increased chainring clearance makes a big difference.
– One-tool system for improved serviceability. This is a great concept allowing for the at home mechanic to have one set of tools versus multiple.
– UDH Compatible. The frame has UDH to keep the Ranger compatible with the latest drivetrain technologies.

***Note, that the build I demoed has the new SRAM T-Type XO Eagle Transmission which does not use the UDH system.***

While I was able to ride the Ranger with the 27RW Revel Wheels, as of now, Revel offers different carbon wheelsets on their Ranger builds.

On the Trail:

Climbing:
The Ranger is a very efficient climber. The stiffer frame allows for the majority of your power to go directly into the rear wheel. This, combined with the CBF suspension and link linkage upgrade on the V2, makes it so there is no need to lock out your rear shock on long climbs.

Descending:
Revel describes the Ranger as being one of the most nimble XC bikes around, and I completely agree with that statement. The bike reacts almost instantly to any movement allowing for the rider to quickly and easily get around almost any obstacle or feature.

Santa Cruz Tallboy Noticeable Differences:
The Ranger is more lively and quicker to react.
The Tallboy feels more stable on the downhill because of it’s longer wheelbase, & slacker head tube angle.
The Ranger is a more efficient climber, however it does feel like the rider has to exert more force into each pedal stroke.

Who's it for:

The Ranger is for the rider who wants an efficient, lively, bike.

I feel like a beginner to advanced XC rider would have a ton of fun on this bike. Especially anyone looking for a great bike, focusing on the XC type of terrain.

I’m 5’7 and generally ride medium frame bikes. However, for the Ranger, I feel I would’ve been more comfortable on a large frame.

Anyone interested in the Revel Ranger should look up their nearest Revel dealer to demo a bike, particularly for sizing.

Geometry & CBF Suspension

Revel Uses the Canfield Balance Formula (CBF) Suspension Platform

The CBF™ design makes the positive uphill and downhill performance of the Ranger shine. It is the most efficient, yet active pedaling platform possible.

This platform results in maximum pedaling efficiency regardless of terrain, where you are in the travel, or what kind of power you’re putting down. All the power you put into the pedals goes directly into turning the rear wheel.
The CBF™ design makes the positive uphill and downhill performance of the Ranger possible. It creates a stable pedaling platform, controlled under braking, and a bottomless feel keeps the Ranger from hardly feeling out-gunned.

This means:
-Pedals wells through the travel and doesn’t bob.
-Versatile design makes for more traction.
-Better pedal performance throughout the whole range of travel

Components SRAM X0 Eagle Transmission Build $7,999

Frame: Medium, Carbon
Rear Shock:Rockshox Sid Ultimate 115mm
Fork: Rockshox Sid Ultimate 120mm
Handlebar/Stem: Raceface Carbon
Brakes: SRAM Level Stealth
Rear Derailleur: SRAM Eagle Transmission XO
Cranks: SRAM Eagle Transmission XO
Dropper Lever: Crank Brothers Highline 7
Dropper Post: Crank Brothers
Wheels- Front & Back Rim: RW 27, Revel Wheels

Chain: SRAM XO Transmission Flattop Chain
Cassette: SRAM Eagle XO Transmission 12x52t
Shifter: SRAM wireless AXS Pods
Saddle: WTB
Tires: Versus Tires, All Mountain
Riding Style: Cross Country
Weight: 25lb
Grips: Lizard Skins
Pedals: Funn clip/flat
Hubs: Industry 9 1/1