Revel El JefevsWayward
The Revel Wayward V2 stands as a celebrated titanium hardtail known for its versatile trail manners and bikepacking prowess, a stark contrast to the Revel El Jefe, for which detailed ride impressions are not available in the provided data. This comparison attempts to illuminate their distinct design philosophies, relying on Wayward's comprehensive reviews and the El Jefe's geometry to uncover their intended roles.
Overview
The Revel Wayward V2 is a thoroughly reviewed titanium hardtail, lauded as a "unicorn" for its exceptional ride quality, versatile trail competence, and comfort on long bikepacking trips. It’s designed as a multi-day adventure bike, built around 29+ tires (clearing up to 29 x 3.0″) and corrected for a 120mm suspension fork, though it also shines in a rigid configuration. This makes it a highly adaptable rig, capable of both engaging singletrack and comfortable dirt road touring, embodying a blend of agility and stability that few bikes achieve.
Ride and handling
The Revel Wayward V2 is consistently praised for a ride quality that blends compliance and controlled responsiveness, earning its "unicorn" status. Reviewer Logan Watts called it "the best riding rigid 29+ bike I’ve had the pleasure to throw my leg over," highlighting its ability to soak up vibrations and small bumps. This comfort is due to its cold-formed titanium tubing, which is "laterally stiff and responsive, but also does a fantastic job at soaking up downward blows and bumps." When equipped with the Oddity Squidfork, this rigid setup becomes "surprisingly shock absorbent," making for an uncommonly smooth ride over rough terrain, even with 29 x 2.8″ tires at low pressure. It maintains precision and power transfer while isolating the rider from trail chatter, reducing fatigue on long rides. For the Revel El Jefe, detailed ride and handling impressions are unfortunately not available from the provided reviews, as the qualitative data refers to a different manufacturer's model. Any assessment of its ride character must be inferred solely from its geometry. With a 67.5-degree head tube angle and 420mm chainstays, the El Jefe's numbers suggest a quicker, more direct handling feel than the Wayward. It likely aims for agile turn-in and efficient power transfer, characteristic of a hardtail designed for faster trail riding or cross-country applications. The 68mm bottom bracket drop should keep the rider feeling centered and stable, aiding cornering precision. However, without actual rider feedback, it's impossible to confirm the titanium frame's specific compliance or how its stiffness translates to real-world comfort and responsiveness. The Wayward V2 also excels in handling dynamics. Its slacker 67.0-degree head tube angle and longer 1204mm wheelbase contribute to exceptional high-speed stability and confidence. Yet, it remains "responsive and lively—especially for a 29+ rig—and stable and comfortable," demonstrating an impressive balance of agility for technical singletrack and composure for fast descents. The Wayward's ability to run a 120mm suspension fork further extends its trail capability, placing it "in the top echelon of trail hardtails" when suspended. This adaptability means it can be set up for either a uniquely compliant rigid ride or a more aggressive, cushioned trail experience.
Specifications
Comparing the Revel El Jefe and Wayward V2 on component specifications is challenging due to limited detailed data for the El Jefe beyond build names. The El Jefe's offered builds, such as "SRAM Eagle 90 Kit," "SRAM X0 Eagle Transmission Kit," and "SRAM XX Eagle Transmission Kit," indicate a clear focus on high-performance SRAM drivetrains, leaning towards race-ready or premium trail setups. The presence of Eagle Transmission suggests modern, robust, and precise shifting components, likely paired with quality brakes and suspension appropriate for trail riding. However, without specific details on forks, brakes, or wheelsets for these kits, a direct comparison of component quality and value is difficult. For the Wayward V2, the review details a "SquidWard" build that is "very close to the $5,899 Eagle X01 kit." This build comes with top-tier SRAM Eagle X01 drivetrain components, Industry Nine Backcountry 360 Alloy rims with Hydra hubs, and SRAM G2 brakes. These are premium, reliable components that signify a high-performance and durable build. A major differentiator for the Wayward is the option of the Oddity Cycles Squidfork and Lowrizer handlebar, handmade titanium components that significantly enhance ride quality and are considered "prized upgrades." The Squidfork alone is a $1,000 upgrade, showcasing a commitment to unique, high-end rigid performance, although it drives the price up considerably. The Wayward V2's frame-only price is $2,449, including a headset, seat collar, and rear axle. Complete builds start at $4,799. Given its titanium frame, extensive braze-ons, and options for specialized titanium components, the Wayward V2 positions itself as a premium offering where performance and a unique ride experience are prioritized. Without full spec sheets for the Revel El Jefe, it's difficult to ascertain if its standard builds offer similar value in terms of frame material or component tiers. However, the presence of SRAM XX Eagle Transmission kits implies that the El Jefe also targets a high-end market, likely with a focus on cutting-edge drivetrain technology for efficiency and precise shifting.
| Jefe | Wayward | |
|---|---|---|
| FRAMESET | ||
| Frame | Revel El Jefe 29" Hardtail | — |
| Fork | RockShox SID SEL+ 120mm | — |
| Rear shock | — | — |
| GROUPSET | ||
| Shift levers | SRAM Eagle 90 | — |
| Front derailleur | — | — |
| Rear derailleur | SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type | — |
| Cassette | SRAM Eagle 90 XS1275 T-Type 10-52t | — |
| Chain | SRAM GX Eagle 116L T-Type | — |
| Crankset | SRAM Eagle 90 | — |
| Bottom bracket | SRAM DUB BSA 73 MTB Wide | — |
| Front brake | SRAM Motive Silver | — |
| Rear brake | SRAM Motive Silver | — |
| WHEELSET | ||
| Front wheel | DT Swiss XM1700 | — |
| Rear wheel | DT Swiss XM1700 | — |
| Front tire | Maxxis Forekaster 29″ x 2.4″ EXO | — |
| Rear tire | Maxxis Rekon 29″ x 2.4″ EXO | — |
| COCKPIT | ||
| Stem | RaceFace Turbine R 35x50mm | — |
| Handlebars | RaceFace Turbine 35 20mmx760mm | — |
| Saddle | SDG Bel-Air Lux-Alloy | — |
| Seatpost | Crank Brothers Highline 7; SM: 125mm; MD: 150mm; LG: 170mm; XL: 200mm | — |
| Grips/Tape | Trail 1 Farlow Gap Grip | — |
Geometry and fit comparison
The Revel El Jefe (size Large) presents a geometry that suggests a focused, efficient hardtail: a 474mm reach paired with a 615mm stack, creating a moderately long and low front end for an aggressive riding position. The 67.5-degree head tube angle is on the steeper side for a trail hardtail, hinting at quick, precise steering, especially when combined with a 44mm fork offset and a substantial 112mm of trail. This setup is poised for rapid changes in direction and confident tracking on technical terrain, appealing to riders who favor agility and direct input. Its 75.0-degree seat tube angle is commendably steep, placing the rider efficiently over the pedals for strong climbing performance. For the Wayward V2, unfortunately, the provided geometry numbers in the review are only for a size Large and are compared to the V1 Wayward, not directly to the El Jefe. The review states the V2 Large has a 465mm reach and 656mm stack, which makes it significantly taller and slightly shorter in reach than the El Jefe (474mm reach, 615mm stack, size Large). This higher stack on the Wayward V2 is an intentional design choice "to increase the stack height and provide a little more of an upright position," aiming to "please long-haul riders." This suggests a more relaxed and comfortable riding posture, especially for extended periods in the saddle. Comparing the two frames (size Large), the El Jefe offers a longer reach and a significantly lower stack, indicating a more stretched-out and aggressive riding posture. This fit would suit riders who prefer a forward bias for attacking climbs and maintaining control at speed, or those with longer torsos and a desire for a race-oriented feel. The Wayward V2, with its taller stack and slightly shorter reach, would feel more upright and less demanding on the back, making it a better choice for riders prioritizing comfort on long days, or those with shorter torsos. The Wayward V2 also features a slacker 67.0-degree head tube angle (compared to El Jefe's 67.5 degrees) and adjustable chainstays (435-450mm vs. El Jefe's fixed 420mm). The slacker headtube on the Wayward suggests more stability at speed, while the adjustable chainstays offer versatility in handling, allowing riders to tune between agile and planted rear-end characteristics. The El Jefe's fixed 420mm chainstays, by contrast, lock in a consistently nimble and responsive rear end.
| FIT GEO | Jefe | Wayward | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stack | 615 | — | — |
| Reach | 474 | — | — |
| Top tube | 640 | — | — |
| Headtube length | 106 | — | — |
| Standover height | 770 | — | — |
| Seat tube length | 460 | — | — |
| HANDLING | Jefe | Wayward | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headtube angle | 67.5 | — | — |
| Seat tube angle | 75 | — | — |
| BB height | 299 | — | — |
| BB drop | 68 | — | — |
| Trail | 112 | — | — |
| Offset | 44 | — | — |
| Front center | — | — | — |
| Wheelbase | 1167 | — | — |
| Chainstay length | 420 | — | — |
Who each one is for
Revel El Jefe
The Revel El Jefe, based on its geometry, is for the hardtail enthusiast who values speed, efficiency, and precise handling on moderately technical trails. This rider might regularly tackle fast-paced cross-country loops or engage in bikepacking where covering ground quickly is a priority. If you're someone who enjoys a taut, responsive bike that converts every pedal stroke into forward momentum and prefers to carve corners with agility, the El Jefe's longer reach, lower stack, and relatively steep head tube angle would suit your aggressive riding style. It's for the rider who wants a fast titanium hardtail that feels direct and energetic, making it a strong contender for local endurance races or spirited trail sessions.
Revel Wayward
The Revel Wayward V2 caters to the adventure rider and bikepacker seeking a comfortable, versatile, and immensely capable titanium hardtail for long hauls and diverse terrain. This rider isn't solely focused on outright speed but wants a bike that remains composed and comfortable over multi-day trips on chunky doubletrack, gravel, and technical singletrack. If you appreciate the inherent compliance of titanium, the option for plush 29+ tires, and a more upright riding position for enduring long days in the saddle, the Wayward V2 is your unicorn. It’s ideal for someone planning extended backcountry explorations who wants a bike that feels stable and confident when loaded down, yet lively enough to enjoy challenging singletrack.
