I've got the same kite marked 1997 in the Rev header, only different colors! 7 panel layout! My first "real" Rev, I've flown the crap out of it! Still in great shape almost 15 years later!! If I'm not mistaken, you can get 2, 3, 4, and Black Race rods for it easily and the new "Diamond Sticks" from Ben at Rev! I even think the SLE tubes are out there (looking for the Rev police)! I'm using a Black Race most of the time and still have my original 4 wrap as backup!
Yes, it's slower, but just as precise, as any of the smaller models, and will quickly show you any mistakes in technique (bowtie, wing flip in a heartbeat), but a fun fly on a lazy afternoon! I pull mine out every now and then just to enjoy flying something different than my 1.5s!