Rebel Carbon review

Storck’s stated aim with the £2296 (£1149 frame only) Rebel Carbon hardtail was to create a ‘super light yet mega rigid frame with zero energy loss when accelerating and sensational steering precision’.

To accomplish this, it used the same big down tube diameter as the Adrenalin, with a wishbone configuration rear triangle that almost mimics the alu framed Rebel, but absorbs trail vibrations better. Fitted with Fox’s Terralogic F100X fork, ground feel and frame rigidity is to the point of almost punishing if you just climbed off the full suss Adrenalin, but relatively smooth if you’re comparing it to a stiff aluminium frame with similar part choices.

As with the Adrenalin mainframe, the ‘Prodium Carbon’ monocoque chassis is beautifully executed. Both frames have top quality integrated headsets and the aesthetic detail is a pleasure to behold. The Carbon back end has bolt fittings for a chain deflection device to shield the carbon from chain suck, and there’s plenty of room for big treads to add both traction and comfort. Frame colour and parts choices are entirely up to you. You won’t get a much lighter frame than this anywhere – it weighs in at almost exactly 3lb, half a pound less than either a standard £489 Rebel or a £799 Rebel Race, but its durability reputation is excellent.

THE FINE DETAILS

Other fine detail worth mentioning includes the unique 3D wheel dropouts – with double bolted replaceable gear hanger – and the cable and hose guides that lift the cables further away from the frame to protect it from rattle and rub. Our one gripe was a need for another guide on the top tube for the hydraulic hose. The lack of an extra guide seems like an oversight on a top dollar frame that’s otherwise immaculate.

Like the Adrenalin Carbon, the Rebel Carbon came equipped with a full XT groupset, Mavic’s X717 disc rims, Schwalbe’s Racing Ralph 2.2in treads, a Fizik Gobi saddle and Storck’s own seat post, stem, grips and bar. The Rebel’s nod to its thoroughbred XC race pedigree were the 22in flat bar and Fox Terralogic fork.