Letters from readers regularly admonish us that the sport of biking has nothing to do with war and that we should therefore please avoid terms such as "weapon". And now this: a bike called a revolver. Doesn't fit? It does fit! Revolver contains the verb to revolve. And after all, a lot of things rotate on a bike: the legs, the cranks, the wheels. Fast or faster, depending on your physique and daring. "The top model 9XX is sold out, we'll send you the version below", reported Norco sales. No reason for gloom. At 4999 euros, the Revolver 9.1 is by far the cheapest bike in this test group. Saving several thousand euros means a difference of just 400 grams on the scales. That's how much heavier the 9.1 FS is compared to the test average. For 4999 euros you get a very light full carbon chassis, aluminium wheels (with inner tube) and components as well as a Sram X1 groupset. For the suspension, the product managers mix Fox shocks with Rock Shox forks, but this pairing does not offer the luxury of a common, remote-controlled lockout. The platform on the shock has to be operated manually. But it doesn't matter, the Revolver has a less aggressive character than Trek or Müsing anyway. The Canadians define cross country, or CC, differently to us. CC is always technically demanding and doesn't stand for bouldering along forest tracks. Traction and riding safety therefore take precedence over drive efficiency. The long geometry combined with a short stem is well suited to sporty tours. While the Norco feels direct and precise at the front, the bottom bracket and rear triangle are moderately stiff. The rear axle mount (aluminium sleeve glued into the carbon) works and possibly influences the measured value. Good: maximum permitted rider weight 120 kilos. Weak: only a three-year warranty.
ConclusionRevolver sounds like the Wild West, ambushes and Clint Eastwood. But what is meant is singletrack, challenging descents and dust between your teeth. At high noon, you meet here for the starting shot - and not for a duel. Also available in 27.5 inches.
The alternative: The Revolver 9XX top model is sold out, the cheaper alternative to the 9.1 is called the 9.2 and costs 3999 euros. DT Swiss wheels, SID fork and 11-speed Shimano XT gears are aimed at racers.
