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This Co-op DRT 1.1 review helps you decide whether this bike is worth your attention and money.
I will highlight its pros and cons, scrutinize its features, and suggest a few alternatives.
Spoiler alert: DRT 1.1 is one of the best beginner mountain bikes on the market. It provides an excellent price-value ratio (especially with the REI membership). You can buy DRT 1.1 here or continue reading for more info.
Co-op DRT 1.1 Pros and Cons
Here are the main pros and cons of this bike:
Co-op DRT 1.1 Pros
- Excellent price-value ratio (includes REI services)
- Wide gear range (21spd)
- Durable aluminum frame
- Platform pedals included
Co-op DRT 1.1 Cons
- Relatively short fork travel
- External cable routing
- Wheels are not tubeless-ready
- Thin and hard grips
- High weight
Main Features
Let’s now talk about its main features.
Frame and Geometry
The DRT 1.1 has a slightly different aluminum frame than the more high-end Co-op DRT 1.2.
It has a much shorter reach, so you won’t sit in an aggressive riding position (you will sit more upright). This means less stress on your lower back.
This geometry is suitable for cross-country riding or easy trails rather than technical terrain or even downhill.
Another difference is that the cables are routed externally, not internally, like on the DRT 1.2 or DRT 2.1. It detracts a bit from the aesthetics.
Suspension Fork
The SR Suntour fork will absorb minor bumps and vibrations but don’t expect miracles.
It’s a budget fork for entry-level mountain bikes. Its travel is only 100mm. The typical fork travel for bikes in this price range is 90-120mm. It’s also on the heavier side of the spectrum.
This means you should avoid too technical sections as the fork won’t forgive many riding mistakes (if you want longer fork travel, check out the DRT 1.2 that has a 120mm travel fork).
3X Drivetrain
The DRT 1.1 is a little outdated because of the 3X design. Modern mountain bikes use 1X drivetrains for their simplicity.
The 3X Shimano Tourney drivetrain is more complex, so more things can go wrong, heavier, and there is a higher risk of cross-chaining.
On the other hand, it offers a wider gear range, so you will always find the right gear for your preferred cadence.
Wheels
The Co-op DRT 1.1 does not have tubeless-ready rims and is equipped with Kenda Kadre 27.5 x 2.1-inch tires. On the other hand, the DRT 1.2 has tubeless-ready rims and wider tires that are suitable for rougher terrain.
This specification suggests that the main purpose of the DRT 1.1 bike is for riding on gravel or dirt roads and not on too challenging terrain.
Moreover, it’s essential to note that 27.5-inch wheels are more agile and can accelerate faster than larger 29-inch wheels found on some mountain bikes in this price range.
Other Things to Consider
I am confident that you will appreciate the flat pedals that come with the bike, so you won’t have to buy them separately. They are not anything special, but they are enough for beginners.
I also recommend replacing the grips because the ones that come with the bike are relatively thin and hard, which does not provide enough relief from shocks and vibrations. You can alleviate these effects by using cycling gloves.
Co-op DRT 1.1 Specifications
Here are the most important specifications of the Co-op DRT 1.1.
Co-op DRT 1.1 Specifications
- Fork: SR Suntour (100mm travel)
- Groupset: Shimano Tourney (3×7spd)
- Brakes: Tektro (hydraulic disc brakes)
- Wheels: Co-op Cycles 27.5, 32 H
- Tires: Kenda Kadre 27.5 x 2.1 in
- Weight: 31.10 lb (14.11 kg)
Co-op DRT 1.1 Alternatives
DRT 1.1 has many alternatives (basically, most mountain bikes for under $1000). Here are a few bikes you can consider:
- Trek Marlin 5 is available in more sizes and color options. The M to XXL sizes come with 29″ wheels. It also has a simpler 2X drivetrain.
- Trek 820 is the most affordable Trek MTB. It has a shorter fork travel (you can read this Trek 820 review for more info).
- Cannondale Trail 6 – most of its features are similar, but the M to XL sizes come with 29″ wheels.
Co-op DRT FAQ
Conclusion
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is an excellent choice for beginners because it is affordable (especially when discounted) and provides everything you need from an entry-level mountain bike.
It is well-built, offers enough gears, decent riding comfort, and has hydraulic disc brakes for effective stopping power.
I recommend it for less technical terrain like gravel, dirt, and forest roads. If you want to ride on rougher terrain, check out the DRT 1.2.
Its main disadvantage is the short fork travel of 100mm, non-tubeless rims, and external cable routing.
