Why, despite numerous well-known technical challenges, does the dream of the inverted fork persist? Keeping seals fresh, lubricated, and crud-free is one aspect, as is significantly reduced unsprung weight. Countering those benefits are a lack of inherent torsional stiffness and the perception that low-mounted stanchions are more easily scratched.
After launching a seriously limited (and seriously spendy) US-made Revel a year ago, the company has revised the design to improve manufacturability, handling, and performance – and dropped the price by over 40%.
The 2016 Revel moves from a blingy gold treatment to a stealthier black while an revamped crown increases stiffness. Dedicated crowns are available for 27.5in (160mm travel) and 29er (140mm travel) models, providing wheel-specific offset. The damper has also been upgraded to X-Fusion’s well-regarded Roughcut HLR damper.
The first 250 forks are already in production and the new Revel should be available from January. US pricing is tentatively set at $1,000. UK pricing TBC, but is likely to be around £900.
The O2 Pro rear shock has also been updated, with a 15% larger air can, which allows for spring curve tuning via internal air volume reducers. The mode/lockout lever and rebound knobs have also been improved, yielding what may be the nicest adjuster feel on the market.
Comments (2)
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Does it use a unique hub, like the RS1? If so, extra cost or included in the price?
Tthew,
The Revel uses a standard 20mm thru axle- hub not included.