Revel Bikes Shuts Down: Financial Woes End Colorado Brand’s Run

Carbondale, CO – April 17, 2025 – Revel Bikes, a Colorado-based manufacturer renowned for its innovative mountain bikes, has announced it is ceasing operations due to insurmountable financial challenges. In an email sent to dealers today, the company disclosed it has exhausted its resources and transferred control to its senior lender, marking the end of a six-year journey that reshaped the mountain biking landscape.

Sudden Closure Shocks Cycling Community

The abrupt closure comes as a shock to the cycling world, particularly following Revel Bikes’ recent unveiling of three new models at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic, including the ReRun, its first electric mountain bike (eMTB). The company, headquartered in Carbondale, cited a combination of product delays, overdue payments, and a declining market for premium bikes as reasons for its financial distress. With over $8 million in secured debt, Revel was unable to secure additional funding to continue operations.

Founded in 2019, Revel Bikes gained a loyal following for its high-performance mountain bikes, driven by its proprietary Canfield Balance Formula (CBF) suspension system. Models like the Revel Rascal, with its 130mm rear travel, and the Rail29, praised as a top trail bike in 2023, solidified the brand’s reputation for blending cutting-edge engineering with rider-centric design. The company’s foray into titanium bikes through its sister brand, Why Cycles, and its experimental 3D-printed Rodeo concept bike further showcased its innovative spirit.

Financial Struggles Reflect Industry Challenges

Revel’s closure is the latest in a series of setbacks for the bike industry, which has faced significant turbulence since the pandemic. A surge in demand during 2020 and 2021 led to supply chain bottlenecks, followed by an oversupply of inventory as consumer spending on high-end bikes waned. Smaller brands like Revel, despite their innovation, have struggled to compete with larger manufacturers better equipped to weather economic shifts.

The company’s financial troubles were compounded by delays in product launches and challenges in meeting dealer commitments. The recent opening of a new headquarters in Carbondale in October 2024, intended as a hub for demo rides and community engagement, added to its financial strain. Industry analysts note that Revel’s closure underscores the vulnerability of boutique brands in a market increasingly dominated by major players.

Immediate Impact on Dealers and Riders

Effective April 18, 2025, Revel Bikes began liquidating its remaining inventory at significant discounts, offering riders a final chance to purchase models like the Rascal, Rail29, and ReRun eMTB. The ReRun, powered by a Bosch SX motor and featuring 165mm of CBF suspension, had generated buzz as a contender in the growing eMTB market. However, the cessation of warranty support has raised concerns among existing Revel bike owners.

Revel is exploring options to partner with another entity to provide ongoing service for bikes already in circulation, though no agreements have been finalized. For dealers, the closure disrupts supply chains and leaves many grappling with unfulfilled orders. Customers who placed deposits for bikes may face uncertainty, as unsecured creditors are unlikely to receive payouts.

A Legacy of Innovation

Despite its closure, Revel Bikes leaves behind a legacy of innovation and community engagement. The company’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing, exemplified by the 3D-printed Rodeo, and its focus on rider experience earned it a dedicated fanbase. The Carbondale headquarters, a hub for local cyclists, fostered a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the brand’s products.

Revel’s employees, many of whom were passionate cyclists, face an uncertain future. The closure is a personal loss for the tight-knit team that helped build the brand from a startup into a respected name in mountain biking.

What’s Next for Revel Bikes?

While Revel Bikes’ current operations have ended, there is speculation that its assets, including the CBF suspension platform, could be acquired by another manufacturer. The company’s lender is expected to seek buyers for its intellectual property and inventory, potentially allowing elements of Revel’s technology to live on under new ownership.

For now, the cycling community mourns the loss of a brand that pushed boundaries and inspired riders. As the industry navigates ongoing challenges, Revel’s closure serves as a stark reminder of the economic realities facing even the most innovative players in mountain biking.