REI carries a collection of house-brand bikes that suit many different riders over a wide range of bike disciplines.

All Co-Op Cycles are unisex with multiple builds built with an option for a step-through frame to accommodate riders with a shorter inseam, or that may have trouble stepping over the top tube.

The three categories of Co-Op cycles have been broken down into the following.

These bikes are equipped with some of the highest-level components of any of the Co-Op Cycles.

Co-Op Cycles are included in REI's “100% satisfaction guarantee”. “If you're not satisfied with your REI purchase, you can return it for a replacement or refund within one year of purchase.”

Co-op Cycles REI DRT 1.1 vs REI DRT 1.2

The Co-op Cycles REI DRT 1.1 and DRT 1.2 are both mountain bikes from Co-op's DRT range, but there are several key differences between them:

Co-op Cycles REI DRT 1.1

• It is a Cross Country Aluminium / Alloy mountain bike.
• It sports 27.5" wheels.
• It comes in a range of sizes, including XS, SM, MD, LG, XL.
• It has SR Suntour suspension and a Shimano drivetrain.
• It is priced at $599 USD¹.
• The frame is made of Co-op Cycles 6061 aluminum¹.
• The wheels are Co-op Cycles 27.5, 32 H¹.
• The tires are Kenda Kadre¹.
• The drivetrain includes a KMC 7-speed chain, Shimano Tourney crank, cartridge bearing square bottom bracket, Shimano Tourney front and rear derailleur, and Shimano Rapidfire Plus shifters¹.
• The components include a Tektro hydraulic disc Hydraulic Disc Brake brakeset, Co-op Cycles handlebar, WTB Volt Sport saddle, Co-op Cycles seatpost, Co-op Cycles 6061 stem, and an external headset¹.

Co-op Cycles REI DRT 1.2

• It is a Trail Aluminium / Alloy mountain bike.
• It sports 27.5" wheels.
• It comes in a range of sizes, including XS, SM, MD, LG, XL.
• It has SR Suntour suspension and a Shimano drivetrain.
• It is priced at $999 USD².
• The frame is made of aluminum².
• The wheels are ST i25 TCS 2.0, 27.5"" (Tubeless Ready)².
• The tires are WTB Trail Boss; 27.5 x 2.4 in².
• The drivetrain includes a Shimano HG 9-speed chain, Shimano Altus, 36-22 crank, Shimano bottom bracket, Shimano Alivio front derailleur, Shimano Altus Shadow, 9-speed rear derailleur, and Shimano Rapidfire Plus shifters².
• The components include a Tektro hydraulic Hydraulic Disc Brake brakeset, Co-op Cycles handlebar, WTB Volt Sport saddle, Co-op Cycles seatpost, Co-op Cycles, 31.8, 3-degree stem, and an internal headset².

In summary, the DRT 1.2 is a higher-end model with a better drivetrain, including a 9-speed Shimano HG chain and Shimano Altus components, a dual-piston SR Suntour XCR suspension with more travel (120mm vs 100mm), and tubeless-ready wheels. However, it's also more expensive. The DRT 1.1, on the other hand, provides a more affordable option, still offering solid performance for recreational and beginner mountain bikers. The right choice between the two depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

REI DRT 1.1 & 1.2 Bike Options

For the DRT 1.1:

• The bike is designed for recreational riders and is a solid, affordable option for a variety of terrains.
• It is a competitive entry-level bike and can handle relatively rough trails for beginner to intermediate riders.
• The bike is agile, thanks to its wide handlebars and 27.5" tires.
• The Shimano 3x7 21-speed drivetrain provides a wide range of gears, allowing for versatility over multiple kinds of terrain.
• The 27.5" wheels are a good compromise size for beginners, offering agility and decent acceleration, while still handling trails competently.
• The bike's performance is comparable to the DRT 1.2, though there is a noticeable $400 price difference.
• If you plan to ride on dirt trails and gravel roads more for relaxation than adrenaline, the DRT 1.1 is the better buy.

For the DRT 1.2:

• The bike is more suited to rougher trails with lots of rocks and roots.
• It is also better for riders who wish to gain new skills and speed, but are on a tight budget.
• The bike is dropper post compatible, which means you can lower and raise the seat as you ride, a useful feature for more aggressive riders.
• If you plan to become increasingly aggressive on trails, particularly on rugged trails at high speeds with lots of downhill action, the DRT 1.2 with its 29" wheels (on the larger size options) would be the better choice.

In summary, both bikes are solid choices for their respective price points and intended user base. The DRT 1.1 is a great entry-level bike for recreational riders, while the DRT 1.2 is a step up for those who want to tackle rougher trails and improve their skills.

REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 vs DRT 1.2 - Best For

The REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 and DRT 1.2 are both solid mountain bikes, but they each have their strengths that make them suitable for different types of riders and terrain.

The DRT 1.1 is best for:

1. Recreational Riders: This bike is aimed at those who want a solid but affordable bike that they can ride on a variety of terrain. It's designed for beginner trail riders who want a reliable and affordable bike¹.

2. Beginner to Intermediate Trails: As an entry-level mountain bike, the DRT 1.1 is capable on relatively rough trails for beginner-to-intermediate riders. It's more capable on the trail than most riders at this level and offers a great ride¹.

3. Budget Conscious Riders: The DRT 1.1 is designed to compete at the $600 price point. It provides a solid performance for its price and is a great entry-level hardtail mountain bike¹.

The DRT 1.2 is best for:

1. Rougher Terrain: If you expect to ride over rough trails with lots of rocks and roots and want to gain new skill and speed but remain on a tight budget, the DRT 1.2 with its better suspension and components would be a better choice¹.

2. Growing Skills: The DRT 1.2 is dropper post compatible, which means it's upgradable. This feature is valuable for those who plan on becoming more aggressive riders, as a dropper post allows the rider to lower and raise the seat while riding, a feature that can greatly enhance control and comfort over challenging terrain¹.

3. Bigger Riders: For larger riders who expect to ride more rugged trails at higher speeds with lots of downhill action, the DRT 1.2, which has larger 29" wheels on the larger size options, will provide a better ride, as these wheels roll better over rough terrain¹.

4. Value for Money: Even though the DRT 1.2 is more expensive, it offers better components and capabilities for the price, making it a good investment for those who are serious about mountain biking and intend to progress in the sport¹.

In conclusion, the choice between the DRT 1.1 and DRT 1.2 will depend on your specific needs, the type of terrain you'll be riding, your budget, and your long-term plans for mountain biking.

How Do I Choose Between REI DRT 1.1 vs REI DRT 1.2?

Choosing between the REI Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 and DRT 1.2 will largely depend on your budget, the terrain you plan to ride, and your ambitions as a mountain biker.

1. Budget: The DRT 1.1 is priced at $599 USD while the DRT 1.2 is priced at $999 USD. If you're on a tight budget, the DRT 1.1 is a solid entry-level mountain bike that offers good value for the price. On the other hand, if you have a higher budget, the DRT 1.2 offers slightly upgraded components and more advanced features.
2. Terrain and Riding Style: The DRT 1.1 is well-suited for beginner to intermediate riders and is capable on relatively rough trails. It is also more agile due to its 27.5" wheels, making it good for tighter trails and mixed-use scenarios, like pavement and gravel. On the other hand, the DRT 1.2, with its dual-piston suspension fork and more advanced drivetrain, is better suited for more challenging terrains and higher speeds. While it also comes with 27.5" wheels in smaller sizes, larger sizes of DRT 1.2 come with 29" wheels, which are better at rolling over rough terrain and are beneficial for downhill action.
3. Mountain Biking Ambitions: If you plan to become increasingly aggressive on trails, particularly rugged trails at higher speeds, or if you want to improve your skills and speed as a mountain biker, the DRT 1.2 might be a better choice. It has a slightly better suspension fork (120mm vs 100mm on the DRT 1.1), a more advanced drivetrain, and is compatible with a dropper post, which can be useful for more advanced riders. However, if you plan to use the bike more for relaxation and less intensive trail rides, the DRT 1.1 should serve you well.

Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your specific needs and goals. Both bikes are solid choices in their respective price ranges and offer good value for their cost.

DRT 1.1 & 1.2 Specific Components

Alternative Bike Recommendations

Many bike manufactures offer entry-level mountain bikes comparable to the DRT 1.X series.  Just like any Co-Op bike, it can be returned within the first year if you’re unhappy with anything.

You'll be hard-pressed to find any other bike manufacturer willing to do that.

The following are alternative bike options that you may find better to your liking. 

DRT 1.1

Cannondale – Trail 7 ($560.00)

Marin - Bolinas Ridge 2 ($529.00)

Trek – Marlin 5 ($569.99)

Specialized – Pitch 27.5 ($520)

DRT 1.2

Cannondale – Trail 6 ($825.00)

Marin – San Quentin 1 ($899.00)

Trek – Marlin 6 ($669.99)

Specialized – Rockhopper Sport 27.5 ($700.00)

Co-op Cycles DRT 2.2

DRT 2.2 - $1,799.00

Components

The components equipped on this bike are the right combination of affordability and reliability, giving you everything you need for the most fun on the trails.

140mm (120mm XS, S) travel RockShox Recon front fork is suitable for hard-charging any terrain.

SRAM's NX, wide-range, 1x12 drivetrain provides reliability and serviceability suiting even the most advanced mountain bikers.

X Fusion Manic 125mm dropper post for added fun on the descents.

Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

27.5 tubeless-ready, wide-tread, WTB tires for added traction and reliability on the trail

Uses

Trail riding, mountain biking

Options

Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large.

Best for

A hardtail trail bike for every rider. With a 140mm fork, 1x11 drivetrain, a dropper post, internal cable routing, and tubeless-ready wheels and tires this bike is suitable out of the box for the seasoned rider or the beginner looking to go all in.   

Why choose one over the other

The DRT 2.2 features the latest in modern mountain technology.  This build is more suitable for someone who plans on riding longer and harder regularly. 

Comparable bikes

Sensibly priced components and geometry on par with the industry's latest trends in modern mountain biking make this bike a serious competitor in its class.

All REI bikes can be returned within a year if there's anything about your purchase you don’t like. 

Cannondale – Trail 2 ($1,600.00)

Marin – San Quentin 2 ($1,359.00)

Trek – Rosco 8 ($1,789.99)

Specialized – Fuse 27.5 ($1,500)

Canyon – Exceed CF 7 ($1,999.00)

 Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1

ADV 1.1 - $1,399.00

Components

Brand name parts made specifically for the job at hand.

Double-butted Chromoly steel frame provides strength and stability under heavy loads.

Chromoly steel fork with 15mm thru-axle will provide added comfort and increased stability especially while carrying weight over the front wheel.

Front and rear rack included

Touring specific puncture-resistant tires

High-quality Tektro HY/RD hydraulic disc brakes provide performance stopping power when weighted with cargo.

30 Speed Shimano Deore drivetrain with ultra-low climbing gear will make easy work of tough climbs under heavy load.

Uses

 Urban commuting/Touring

Options

Offered in Small through Double Extra-Large

Best for

This bike is perfect for the serious commuter or someone looking to do long-distance touring.  Higher-end components and features make this more suitable for the more advanced cyclist that already knows what they want. 

Why choose one over the other

This bike is the workhorse of Co-Op Cycles. If you're looking for the bike with the best components, that's ready for adventure right out of the box, this one is for you.

These bikes would be a good alternative to

Many bike manufactures offer bikes comparable to the ADV 1.1 series.  Just like any Co-Op bike, it can be returned within the first year if you’re unhappy with anything. It will be hard to find another bike manufacturer willing to do that.

Cannondale does not make a bike in this class

Marin - ($1,099.00)

Trek – 520 ($1,679.99)

Salsa – Marrakesh Sora – ($1,799.00)

Co-op Cycles ADV 2.X

Price

ADV 2.2 - $1,499.00

ADV 2.3 - $2,199.00

Components

Higher-end brand name parts made specifically for the job at hand.

Carbon Fork with 1-1/8 to 1-1/2 tapered steerer tube for increased stability and ease vibrations when riding rougher surfaces

Fast-rolling and hard cornering gravel-specific tires

Quality disc brakes provide performance stopping power when ripping down the trails.

Gravel specific Shimano GRX drivetrains make sure you spend more time riding and less time fixing your chain.

Borrowed from mountain biking the ADV 2.3 sports a dropper post to move the saddle out of the way when the downhill gets fast and technical.

Uses

Road/Gravel/Dirt/Cyclocross

Options

Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large.

Best for

ADV 2.2 and 2.3 are for the rider that wants to ride to the trailhead from their front door. Long days crushing climbs and smashing descents on and off-road. Both of these bikes were made to have fun out on the trails with the ability to ride pavement like a road bike.

Why choose one over the other

The ADV 2.3 while being similar in geometry and use, has considerably higher-end gravel-specific components.

The 1x11 drivetrain offers the latest in wide range technology that has become the industry standard for mountain and adventure bikes.  Major advantages will be serviceability (fewer parts to break), and reliability while out on the trail.

These bikes would be a good alternative to

Many bike manufactures offer bikes comparable to the ADV 2.2 and 2.3.  Just like any Co-Op bike, it can be returned within the first year if you’re unhappy with anything. It will be hard to find another bike manufacturer willing to do that.

ADV 2.2

Cannondale – CAADX 1($1,850.00)

Marin – Gestalt 2 ($1,359.00)

Trek – ($.00) NA

Canyon – ($.00) NA

ADV 2.3

Cannondale – Super X GRX [D1] ($3,150.00)

Marin – Gestalt X11 ($2,199.00)

Trek – Crockett 5 Disc ($2,399.99)

Canyon – Inflite CF SL 7.0 ($2,299.00)

 [D1]Only available in carbon hence the extra $1k

 Co-op Cycles CTY 1.X

Price

CTY 1.1* - $549.00

CTY 1.2 - $899.00

*the available step-through frame is priced the same

Components

Sensible entry-level parts from well-known and trusted brands.

Puncture-resistant tires helping to avoid flats from unwanted encounters with road hazards.

Powerful disc brakes will be an advantage when stopping a bike with commuter cargo.

Shimano 3x7 and 2x9 drivetrains offer plenty of gears to tackle long climbs.

Rack and fender compatibility

Uses

Urban cycling/commuting/fitness

Options

CTY 1.1 Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large.

Step-through frames are available in sizes Extra Small through Medium to accommodate riders with a shorter inseam or who may have trouble stepping over a high top-tube.  These bikes are otherwise spec'd identically

CTY 1.2 Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large

Best for

Beginner and experienced riders alike will appreciate the simplicity and affordability of the CTY 1.X.  If you're looking for an affordable commuter that doesn't require a lot of expensive maintenance, this is a good bike for you.     

Why choose one over the other

The Mechanical disc brakes on the CTY 1.1 offer a more budget-friendly option to obtain the stopping power of hydraulic disc with (superior) reliability and serviceability.

A sportier version of the 1.1, the 1.2 offers beefier hydraulic brakes for added stopping power, an aluminum fork with a through-axle for added comfort and stability, and a wider range of gears.

These bikes would be a good alternative to

Many bike manufactures offer bikes comparable to the CTY 1.X series.  Just like any Co-Op bike, it can be returned within the first year if you’re unhappy with anything. It will be hard to find another bike manufacturer willing to do that.

CTY 1.1

Cannondale – Quick 5 ($550.00)

Marin – Fairfax 1 (Linda 1 for step-through) ($449.00)

Trek – ($469.99)

CTY 1.2

Cannondale – Quick 4 ($875.00)

Marin – Fairfax 2 (Linda 2 for step-through) ($599.00)

Trek – FX 3 Disc ($849.99)

Co-op Cycles CTY 2.X

Price

CTY 2.1*- $749.00

CTY 2.2 - $1,099.00

*the available step-through frame is priced the same

Components

Sensible entry to mid-level parts from well-known and trusted brands.

Suntour 63mm front fork travel

Kenda gravel/road hybrid tires, great for all types of terrain.

Powerful hydraulic disc brakes will be an advantage when stopping a bike with commuter cargo.

Shimano 3x7 and 2x9 drivetrains offer plenty of gears to tackle long climbs.

Rack and fender compatibility

Uses

Urban cycling/commuting/fitness/trail

Options

CTY 2.1 Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large.

Step-through frames are available in sizes Extra Small through Medium to accommodate riders with a shorter inseam or who may have trouble stepping over a high top-tube.  These bikes are otherwise spec'd identically

CTY 2.2 Offered in Extra-Small through Extra-Large

Best for

The CTY 2.X and its step-through sibling are an urban commuter’s dream.  If your ride route goes through potholes filled or unpaved roads, you'll appreciate the 63mm suspension fork to smooth out the rough stuff and go easy on your hands and body. 

Why choose one over the other

Both of the CTY 2.x bikes are capable of handling the same terrain. If your ride tends to go off-road more frequently, the 2.2 may be a better option with its more gravel-specific tires, slightly more powerful brakes, and a greater gearing range.

These bikes would be a good alternative to

Many bike manufactures offer bikes comparable to the CTY 2.X series.  Just like any Co-Op bike, it can be returned within the first year if you’re unhappy with anything. It will be hard to find another bike manufacturer willing to do that.

CTY 2.1

Cannondale – Quick CX 3 ($825.00) [D1] 

Marin – San Anselmo DS1 ($529.00)

Trek – Dual Sport 1 ($569.99)

CTY 2.2

Cannondale – Quick CX 2 ($1,100.00)

Marin – San Rafael DS2 ($629.00)

Trek – Dual Sport 3 ($869.99)

 [D1]Cannondale doesn’t have a 2021 Quick 3 on their site yet, looks like 2020 models are going for $700