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In this article, I’ll help you navigate REI’s Co-op DRT mountain bike family by comparing DRT 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 3.1, 3.3, and 4.1.
You’ll learn about the differences between each model, who they are best suited for, and more.
Plus, I’ll tell you which model gives you the best value for your money to help make your decision easier.
Co-op DRT 1.0 vs. 1.1 vs. 1.2 vs. 1.3 vs. 2.1 vs. 3.1 vs. 3.3 vs. 4.1
The following table summarizes the main differences between all Co-op DRT bikes.
| DRT 1.0 | DRT 1.1 | DRT 1.2 | DRT 1.3 | DRT 2.1 | DRT 3.1 | DRT 3.3 | DRT 4.1 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $599.99 | $599.99 | $999.99 | $1,399.99 | $1,599.99 | $2,499.99 | $3,299.99 | $1,499.99 |
| Available sizes | XXS | XS-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 100mm travel | SR Suntour XCM32 Boost 15 mm 120mm travel | RockShox Judy Silver TK Solo Air 120mm travel | Suntour SR AIR-Boost 120-140mm travel | RockShox Recon Silver RL Solo Air 140mm travel | RockShox Revelation Motion Control RC 120-130mm travel | Rigid aluminum |
| Rear suspension | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | RockShox Deluxe Select R | RockShox Deluxe Select+ | n/a |
| Wheels | Co-op Cycles 26, 32 H | Co-op Cycles 27.5, 32 H | Co-op double-wall aluminum, tubeless-ready | Co-op double-wall aluminum, tubeless-ready | WTB ST i35 TCS 2.0 tubeless-ready | Co-op double-wall aluminum tubeless-ready | WTB ST Light i30 TCS 2.0 tubeless-ready | 26" aluminum |
| Wheel size | 26″ | 27.5″ | 27.5″ or 29″ | 27.5″ or 29″ | 27.5″+ | 27.5″ or 29″ | 27.5″ or 29″ | 26″ |
| Tires | Kenda Kadre 26 x 2.1 in | Kenda Kadre 27.5 x 2.1 in | Maxxis Rekon Dual Compound 60 TPI 27.5 (29) x 2.4 in | Maxxis Rekon Dual Compound 60 TPI 27.5 (29) x 2.4 in | WTB Ranger Comp 27.5 x 2.8 in | Maxxis Recon 60 TPI tubeless-ready 27.5 (29) x 2.4 in | Maxxis High Roller 27.5 x 2.4 in Maxxis Dissector 29 x 2.4 in | Innova 26 x 4.8 in |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Tourney 3×7spd | Shimano Tourney 3×7spd | microSHIFT ADVENT X 1×10spd | Shimano Deore 1×12spd | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12spd | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12spd | Shimano SLX 1×12spd | SRAM SX Eagle 1×12spd |
| Pedals | Co-op Cycles | Co-op Cycles | not included | not included | Wellgo aluminum platform | not included | not included | not included |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Sport | WTB Volt Sport | Co-op Steel Rail | Co-op Steel Rail | WTB Volt Sport | Co-op Steel Rail | Giant | WTB Pure Sport |
| Brakes | Tektro hydraulic disc | Tektro hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | Shimano SLX hydraulic disc | Shimano Acera MT-400 hydraulic disc |
| Weight | 14 kg 31 lbs | 14.11 kg 31.1 lbs | n/a | n/a | 15.33 kg 33.79 lbs | n/a | 14.29 kg 31.5 lbs | 17.69 kg 39 lbs |
| More info | n/a | DRT 1.1 review | DRT 1.2 review | n/a | DRT 2.1 review | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Buy | Buy DRT 1.0 | Buy DRT 1.1 | Buy DRT 1.2 | Buy DRT 1.3 | Buy DRT 2.1 | Buy DRT 3.1 | Buy DRT 3.3 | Buy DRT 4.1 |
Specifications source: rei.com, updated 02/08/2023
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 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 depending on the 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 between different DRT bikes is their front fork suspension.
Low-end bikes are not primarily designed for demanding terrain and have a 100-120mm suspension.
Higher-end bikes (starting with ‘2’ or ‘3’) have longer travel, ranging from 120 to 140mm, making them more suitable for trails and almost comparable to Trek Roscoe bikes.
Remember that suspension travel may vary based on frame size, with smaller sizes having shorter suspension travel.
While the forks used (mainly from Suntour or RockShox) could be improved, they are standard on most mountain bikes in the given 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 two models:
- DRT 2.1 features 2.8-inch 27.5″ Plus tires that are wider and offer more traction and comfort.
- DRT 4.1 is a fatbike. It has no suspension but has 26″ 4.8-inch tires.
Remember 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. I consider 3X drivetrains outdated, as they are needlessly complicated and can cause 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.
I recommend not deciding 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 use 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 don’t require as much force on the brake lever and provide better braking power dosing. On the other hand, they are slightly more expensive.
It would be nice to see higher-end brakes on individual models, but the stock ones are sufficient for most less demanding riders.
Extras
It’s a shame Co-op DRT Bicycles don’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 and free flat tire repairs, and 20% off shop services if you are Co-op Member. This pays off, considering the lifetime membership price of 30 USD.
Co-op DRT FAQ
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.
