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Co-op’s mountain bike range isn’t what it was a year ago. REI has discontinued every full-suspension DRT and dropped two of the hardtails. I’ve laid out how they compare, which of those spec differences you’ll actually feel once the trail gets rough, and where I’d spend my own money. The verdict is at the bottom if you’d rather cut to it.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Co-op DRT bikes are mountain bikes suitable for beginners and intermediate riders. The lower-end models have only front suspension, and the higher-end models have rear suspension. The more expensive models are usually lighter or have better components (wheels, groupsets, etc.).
Co-op DRT 1.0 vs. 1.1 vs. 1.2 vs. 1.3 vs. 3.1 vs. 3.3 vs. 4.1
The following table summarizes the main differences between all Co-op DRT bikes.
| Feature | DRT 1.0 | DRT 1.1 (new one) | DRT 1.1 | DRT 1.2 | DRT 1.3 | DRT 3.1 | DRT 3.3 | DRT 4.1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $679.00 | $599.99 | $1,189.00 | $1,599.00 | $2,599 | $3,399 | $1,499 |
| Available sizes | XXS | XXS-XL | XS-XL | XS-XL | XS-XL | XS-XL | XS-XL | XS-XL |
| Frame | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Fork | SR Suntour 100mm travel | SR Suntour XCM32, 100mm | SR Suntour, 100mm coil | SR Suntour XCM32 Boost, 120mm coil | RockShox Judy Silver TK Solo Air, 120mm | RockShox Recon Silver RL Solo Air, 140mm | RockShox 35 Gold RL, 140mm | Rigid aluminum |
| Rear suspension | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | RockShox Deluxe Select R, 130mm | RockShox Deluxe Select Plus RT, 130mm | n/a |
| Wheels | Co-op Cycles 26, 32 H | Co-op double-wall, size-specific | Co-op Cycles 27.5, 32H | Co-op double-wall, 32h, tubeless-ready | Co-op double-wall, tubeless-ready | Co-op double-wall, tubeless-ready | Co-op aluminum double-wall, tubeless-ready | 26″ aluminum |
| Wheel size | 26″ | 27.5″ (small) / 29″ (large) | 27.5″ | 27.5″ (XS-S) / 29″ (M-XL) | 27.5″ / 29″ | 27.5″ / 29″ | 27.5″ / 29″ | 26″ |
| Tires | Kenda Kadre 26 x 2.1 in | Kenda Kadre K1027, 2.1 in, reflective sidewall | Kenda Kadre 27.5 x 2.1 | Maxxis Rekon Dual Compound 60 TPI, 2.6 in | Maxxis Rekon Dual Compound 60 TPI, 2.6 in | Maxxis Recon 60 TPI tubeless, 2.4 in | Maxxis Recon 60 TPI tubeless, 2.4 in | Innova 26 x 4.8 in |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Tourney 3×7spd | Shimano 2×8 | Shimano Tourney 3×7 | microSHIFT ADVENT X 1×10 | Shimano Deore 1×12 | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 | Shimano SLX 1×12 | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 |
| Pedals | Co-op Cycles | Alloy platform | Co-op Cycles | Alloy platform, chromoly spindle | Alloy platform, chromoly spindle | Not included | Not included | Not included |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Sport | Co-op vacuum-molded, steel rails | WTB Volt Sport | Co-op Steel Rail | Co-op Steel Rail | Co-op Steel Rail | Co-op Steel Rail | WTB Pure Sport |
| Brakes | Tektro hydraulic disc | Tektro hydraulic disc | Tektro hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic, 180/160mm | Shimano MT200 hydraulic | Shimano MT200 hydraulic | Shimano Deore hydraulic, 180mm rotors | Shimano Acera MT-400 hydraulic |
| Weight | 14 kg 31 lbs | n/a | 14.11 kg 31.1 lbs | n/a | n/a | 15.2 kg 33.51 lbs | n/a | 17.69 kg 39 lbs |
| Buy | Buy DRT 1.0 | Buy DRT 1.1 | Buy DRT 1.1 | Buy DRT 1.2 | Buy DRT 1.3 | Buy DRT 3.1 | Buy DRT 3.3 | Buy DRT 4.1 |
Specifications source: rei.com, updated on July 30, 2026
DRT Pros & Cons Summary
I summarized the pros & cons of the DRT series below.
DRT Pros
- Well-made and durable frames
- Aggressive geometry
- Affordability
- Availability in multiple sizes
- Pedals are often included
- Disc brakes
- Wide gear range
- REI Membership perks and benefits
DRT Cons
- Aluminum or steel frames only
- External cable routing
- 3X drivetrains that are too complicated
- No tubeless-ready wheels or tires on some models
- Higher-end models are less competitive
- Some models don’t have a tapered head tube
DRT Main Features
Let me explain the most important features of the Co-op DRT and compare the individual models.
Frame and Geometry
All DRT bikes are available in (X)S-XL sizes and have an aluminum or steel frame and fork. Unfortunately, REI does not offer any carbon frame DRTs.
While DRT frames receive a lot of praise from both customers and reviewers, they don’t appear as modern as the Trek Marlin range.
The geometry of DRT bikes varies by model, but it’s generally pretty aggressive compared to other bikes in the same category. This means a long reach and low stack.
This position may not be beginner-friendly, as it’s less relaxed. For more detailed comparisons, use the Bikeinsights tool.
Suspension
One of the most significant differences among DRT bikes is their front-fork suspension. Low-end bikes are not primarily designed for demanding terrain and typically have 100-120mm of suspension travel.
Higher-end bikes (starting with ‘2’ or ‘3’) have longer travel, ranging from 120 to 140mm, making them better suited to trails and nearly comparable to Trek Roscoe bikes.
Remember that suspension travel may vary by frame size, with smaller sizes having shorter travel. While the forks used (mainly from Suntour or RockShox) aren’t the best, they are standard on most mountain bikes in this price range.
Wheels and Tires
The wheel size of DRT bikes varies from 26″ to 29″. It’s important to note that certain models may have 27.5″ or 29″ wheels, depending on the bike’s size.
The tires are typical mountain or trekking tires found on other bikes. This means they’re relatively smooth and fast on paved roads but can also handle light gravel or dirt roads. They are not suitable for challenging terrain.
I want to highlight that the DRT 4.1 is a fatbike. It has no suspension but has 26″ 4.8-inch tires. Note that not all DRT bikes have tubeless-ready wheels. Low-end models come with clinchers.
Groupset
DRT bikes come with 1X, 2X, or 3X drivetrains. 3X drivetrains are considered outdated because they are needlessly complicated and prone to cross-chaining.
2X and particularly 1X drivetrains are modern for mountain bikes due to their simplicity and lower weight. Their disadvantage is the larger gaps between individual gears.
Don’t decide based solely on the maximum number of gears when purchasing a bike. For most people, 16 gears with a 2X drivetrain and 10-12 speeds with a 1X drivetrain are sufficient.
As for the components on individual DRT bikes, they are often average compared to similarly priced mountain bikes.
Brakes
Depending on the bike’s price, the DRT series uses mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes from Tektro or Shimano. Disc brakes are more effective than rim brakes, especially in the rain, as they do not lose their braking power.
The differences between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes are that hydraulic disc brakes require less force on the brake lever and provide better braking power modulation. On the other hand, they are slightly more expensive.
Higher-end brakes would be a nice addition to individual models, but the stock ones are sufficient for most casual riders.
Extras
It’s a shame Co-op DRT Bicycles doesn’t follow the trends by integrating the cables and improving the bike’s overall appearance.
On the other hand, they have lock-on grips that are easier to replace than slip-on grips.
Some models, like the DRT 3.1, have a dropper post that you will appreciate, especially in downhills.
Unfortunately, most DRTs have no tapered head tube, which limits their future fork upgradability.
Lastly, REI offers many perks, such as one year of free adjustments in REI stores, free flat tire repairs, and 20% off shop services if you are a Co-op Member. This pays off, considering the lifetime membership price of 30 USD.
My Verdict
So, which Co-op DRT bike is the best?
I believe the DRT 1.1 is one of the best MTBs for beginners, thanks to its affordable price and decent components. It would be nice if it came with a 2X or 1X drivetrain, but those are rare at this price point.
The higher-end models are not as competitive, especially in the $1500 price range, due to their outdated designs, geometry, and average components.
