The 1 + 1 and 2 + 2 resonant multiphoton ionization (MPI) spectra of isotopomers of the allyl radical are recorded with partial rotational resolution. Symmetry arguments and rotational contour analysis are used to identify the distortion that leads to a double-well potential in the B[1(2)A1] excited state. While nominally the 3s Rydberg state, the B[1(2)A1] excited state differs markedly from the allyl cation. Vibrational frequencies in the ground and electronically-excited states are also determined.