Co-op Cycles DRT – Series Overview

Co-op Cycles are a perfect alternative to many well-known bike brands by having the same component lineup at a way better price tag! The DRT series features a whole set of trail bikes that are best suited for demanding backcountry trails, and luckily, there’s something for everyone down below!

There is a good reason why the Co-op Cycles DRT series is nothing to be messed with – take a look at the advantages to trail mountain bikes have over a regular MTB:

DRT Series Overview

Co-op Cycles – DRT 1.0

The XXS size is perfect for young children that have outgrown their kid’s bike and need to move up to something more suitable trail bike.

MSRP: $599
REI.com

The triple front ring on the DRT 1.0 expands the gear range all the way up to 21 speeds, making hill climbing a breeze. You’ll have no trouble tackling steep mountain trails or speeding down dirt track paths. Shimano’s Rapidfire shifting makes it quick and easy to change between gears while bouncing along the trail.

The XXS size is perfect for young children that have outgrown their kid’s bike and need to move up to something more suitable. It has a 647.5mm standover height suiting heights of 4’9″ to 5’0″. At 31 lbs (14kg), it’s not the lightest bike for its size but the weight speaks to its strength and durability.

For a 21-speed hardtail mountain bike with Shimano gears and hydraulic brakes, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better for under $500. You’d need to spend a bit more if you want something lighter but for this price, it’s a good buy.

• Shimano Tourney Drivechain. Shimano provides the drivetrain for the DRT 1.0, with 21 speeds from a triple front ring and a 7-speed rear cassette.
• SR Suntour fork. The lightweight SR Suntour front suspension fork with 100mm of travel means the DRT 1.0 can handle rough terrain without making uphill riding a struggle
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. Get powerful stopping power with instant response from the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. No worry about wet weather, these disc brakes won’t let you down.
• Kenda Kadre tires. Kenda’s Kadre 2.1″ tires give the rider excellent grip and puncture protection in the roughest of terrain. They’re fitted to the DRT’s strong and lightweight 26″ Co-Op Cycles rims.

DRT 1.0 Cons

The SR Suntour fork is heavy for a bike of this size so you might feel inclined to upgrade it to something more manageable. It’s an unfortunate choice of the part that lets down an otherwise excellent bike.

Max weight limit: 300 lbs (136kg) total, including rider and all gear.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 1.1

Best-seller in the DRT hardtail range

MSRP: $599
REI.com

These days a good quality hardtail mountain bike isn’t easy to find for under $500. Considering the DRT 1.1 boasts hydraulic disc brakes and a Shimano drivetrain, you certainly can’t complain about the price.

The Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 is a grown-up version of the 1.0 with larger wheels and sizes from XS to XL to suit all riders between 5’0″ and 6’3″ feet tall. The wide range of gears makes the DRT 1.1 the perfect bike for big mountain riding, tackling steep hills with ease. The triple front ring means riders can quickly change from high to low gears with Shimano’s Rapidfire shifters.

• Co-op Cycles 6061 Aluminum Frame. The DRT 1.1 is built on Co-op Cycles tough 6061 aluminum frame with an SR Suntour fork with 100mm of travel. The frame is both strong and light and the suspension fork makes smooth work of bumpy offroad trails.
• 21-Speed Shimano Gears. Shimano provides the gears with its 21-speed Tourney drivetrain with a triple front ring and 7-speed rear cassette.
• Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. With hydraulic disc brakes, you’ll have no trouble stopping in all types of weather, no matter how wild. These Tektro disc brakes give an instant response with the lightest touch from the adjustable levers.
• 26″ Wheels and tires. The DRT 1.1 features large Kenda Kadre 2.1″ tires to eat up the rocks and bumps on tough mountain trails. They’re complemented by lightweight 27.5″ Co-op Cycles aluminum rims.

DRT 1.1 Cons

The somewhat heavy suspension fork drags the DRT 1.1’s weight up to 31 lbs (14kg) which is a bit higher than average on an MTB. This means weaker riders might have to put in a bit more effort on steep ascents but on flats, it makes little difference.

Some riders might consider replacing the front fork with something a bit lighter than the standard SR Suntour fork that it comes with. It’s extra weight really adds to the bike’s overall weight. However, considering the low cost you would still end up with a good value bike even after the upgrade.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 1.2

Very good quality hardtail mountain bike for intermediate riders looking to push their boundaries

MSRP: $999
REI.com

With the DRT 1.2, Co-op Cycles is moving into some serious mountain biking territory. This is no longer entry-level equipment, with some high-quality parts and a professional finish.

The Shimano Alivio drivetrain is a particularly nice touch and notable upgrade from Shimano’s Tourney gearset. These are some smooth and powerful gears for serious riders who intend on putting them through their paces.

ST i25 TCS tubeless-ready rims are another nice addition, not to mention the impressive WTB Trail Boss tires. The DRT 1.2 is a very good quality hardtail mountain bike for intermediate riders looking to push their boundaries. At just over $800 it’s the price you would expect to pay for a bike of this quality.

• Shimano Altus gears. The DRT 1.2 features the popular and well-trusted Shimano Altus gearset supported by an Alivio front derailleur. With a 36-22t crank on the front matched with a 9-speed rear cassette, you get 18 gears in total to tackle any terrain. In addition, the Altus ‘Shadow’ rear derailleur is a low profile to avoid protruding rocks or trees.
• Hydraulic disc brakes. Tektro supplies the hydraulic disc brakes along with its powerful levers for excellent stopping power in any conditions.
• Internal cable routing. The DRT 2.1 boasts internal cable routing to help reduce wear and tear whilst keeping the bike looking nice and smooth. The internal routing also includes space for a dropper seat post if you ever feel the need to upgrade.
• SR Suntour XCR fork. Front suspension is supplied by the SR Suntour XCR fork with 120mm of travel. It features dual-piston suspension to take the vibration out of rocky trail rides.
• WTB Trail Boss tires. The DRT 2.1 gets fitted with some high-quality 2.4″ Trail Boss tires from mountain bike tire specialists WTB. Wheel sizes range from 27.5″ on the smaller sizes to 29″ on the larger models.

DRT 1.2 Cons

There is honestly very little to fault on a bike at this price with high-quality components. It would be nice to have a full Shimano Altus groupset with the Altus hydraulic brakes purely for the smooth, overall finish.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 2.1

A higher grade range of components for a more professional finish

MSRP: $1,399
REI.com

For the DRT 2.1, Co-op Cycles has selected a higher grade range of components for a more professional finish. The SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain is one of the best mid-range gearing systems you can get for trail, gravel, and MTB bikes. The WTB ST i35 wheels are 32 hole tubeless-ready rims constructed from stiff, lightweight aluminum. They work well to compliment the thick and rugged 28″ Ranger comp tires.

Nice addition to the DRT 2.1 is the dropper seat post. This convenient tool provides up to 125mm of quick seat movement so you can drop into gnarly descents or tackle steep hills without ever needing to stop. With Tektro Auriga lightweight and reliable hydraulic disc brake system, you can easily remove, clean, and replace the rotors.

• SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain. The Co-op Cycles has chosen SRAM’s high-grade SX Eagle gearing for 1 x 12 drivetrain on the DRT 2.1. This gives the rider a wide range of gears while keeping the overall weight down with only a single front ring.
• Suntour SR AIR-Boost suspension. For the front suspension fork, Co-op Cycles has fitted the adjustable Suntour SR XCR34 AIR-Boost. The air-sprung fork has a hydraulic lockout and gives between 120mm and 140mm of travel depending on your bike size selection.
• Hydraulic disc brakes. The Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc brakes on the DRT 2.1 come with front and rear thru-axles and grip instantly in any condition.
• WTB Ranger Comp 27.5″ x 2.8″ Tires. All sizes of the DRT 2.1 features 27.5″ wheels with WTB Ranger Comp 27.5″ x 2.8″ Tires. The thicker tires provide excellent grip on steep climbs and a more comfortable descent on rough downhill trails.
• Dropper Seatpost. With the X-Fusion Manic dropper Seatpost fitted on your DRT 2.1, you can remotely raise and lower the seat from your handlebars.

DRT 2.1 Cons

I can’t find anything bad about this bike. The price might be a bit out of the range of some buyers but it’s suits the quality of parts provided.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 2.2

Aimed at serious riders that are likely to put the bike through its paces

MSRP: $1,899
REI.com

The Co-op Cycles has upgraded its drivetrain on the 2.2 to the SRAM NX Eagle. It’s also a 12-speed drivetrain with a single front ring to improve aerodynamics, keep weight down, and reduce maintenance.

The Co-op Cycles DRT 2.2 is a significant upgrade from the 2.1 which moves into a higher class of mountain bikes. The SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain is a particularly nice touch as is the upgraded RockShox Recon fork.

The Shimano SLX Shadow Plus rear derailleur is another nice addition that gives the bike that extra bit of flair and functionality. It’s aimed at serious riders that are likely to put the bike through its paces and want that little extra protection.

• Rockshox Recon RL. With a RockShox Recon RL fork on the front of the DRT 2.2, you get 120mm to 140mm of travel (dependent on the bike size). This popular front suspension fork can be found on many mid-to-high range mountain bikes.
• WTB Ranger 2.8″ tires. The 2.8″ WTB Ranger tires keep the DRT 2.2 stuck to the trail through rough conditions and help to smooth out some of the harshest terrains. They’re fitted on WTB’s ST i35 tubeless-ready rims.
• X-Fusion Manic dropper seat post. This remote controlled seat post gives you 125mm of space to play with so you can be ready to hit all the ups, downs, and anything in between.
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The upgrade from Tektro to Shimano hydraulic disc brakes gives the bike a nice clean finish with a full Shimano kit. Competitive riders will notice and appreciate the subtle improvements of this higher-grade component.

DRT 2.2 Cons

For a bike in this price range, the DRT 2.2 remains a bit heavy. Picky riders might be tempted to search further for something with a slightly lighter frame or components.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 3.1

The DRT 3.1 enters the realm of the pro-rider

MSRP: $2,399
REI.com

The first full-suspension bike in the Co-op Cycles DRT range, the 3.1 enters the realm of the pro-rider. The Shimano Deore drivetrain is one of the best mid-range MTB gearing systems available. The addition of the Shimano Deore Shadow Plus clutch-style rear derailleur shows impressive attention to detail.

Both the tires and rims are tubeless-ready for riders who prefer to go the more convenient tubeless route. Oddly, Co-op Cycles has selected the lesser-quality Tektro hydraulic disc brakes over their Shimano equivalent but both products offer great braking in all weather conditions.

• RockShox Sektor front and rear suspension. The full-suspension on the DRT 3.1 is provided by an air-sprung RockShox Sektor RL fork on the front and RockShox Monarch R Solo Air system on the rear. Both feature external rebound adjusts for a smooth and stable ride and between 120mm to 140mm of travel depending on bike size.
• Shimano Deore drivetrain. The DRT 3.1 is kitted out with Shimano’s excellent Deore gearing system. Although it only has 10-speeds with the 1×10 setup, the wide range of 11-42t cogs on the rear cassette gives the rider lots of options.
• WTB Wheels and Tires. The smaller sizes (XS-S) on the Co-op Cycles DRT 3.1 get 26″ tires and wheels while the larger (M, L, XL) sizes have the 27.5″ versions. All tires are the thick 2.8″ WTB Ranger and rims are WTB ST i40 TCS.
• X-Fusion Manic dropper seat post. The DRT 3.1 boasts the super-responsive and remote-controlled X-Fusion Manic dropper seat post for quick seat changes mid-ride. XS-M frames allow 100mm of travel while L-XL frames allow 150mm.

>>> Related: Best Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes Under $3,000

DRT 3.1 Cons

With only 10 speeds, the DRT 3.1 bike doesn’t offer a lot of gearing options, making it best suited for downhill charging rather than long-distance rides.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 3.2

MSRP: $2,799
REI.com

The Co-op Cycles DRT 3.2 is not cheap but it delivers a professional level mountain bike for a price that a discerning cyclist would appreciate. Each component is high quality and it’s unlikely you’ll need to do any upgrades or replacements for a long time.

The 1 x 12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain is the perfect complement to this bike. It uses a single front ring with an 11-50T rear cassette for a great selection of high and low range gears.

For braking, Co-op Cycles has done well to fit Shimano’s BR-MT500 hydraulic system and the RockShox suspension is perfect. Both front and rear systems have external rebound adjust, keeping the bike solidly connected with the ground whenever intended.

• Front and rear suspension. Air-sprung RockShox Revelation RC provides the front suspension on the DRT 3.2 and RockShox Monarch R Solo Air sorts the rear out.
• 12-speed SRAM drivetrain. SRAM’s NX Eagle provides the drivetrain once again for the DRT 3.2, however you get an extra two gears this time.
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The CO-op Cycles DRT 3.2 upgrades to the top-class Shimano BR-MT500 dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes for awesome stopping power no matter what the weather.
• X-Fusion Manic dropper seat post. The DRT 3.2 benefits from X-Fusion’s Manic dropper seat post for quick and easy seat height adjustment without needing to stop. Simply flip the seat up or down with the bar-mounted remote control.

DRT 3.2 Cons

This is an excellent bike with a great range of parts. The only downside is that, if you want to ride it, you’ll have to fork out the cash.

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 3.3

MSRP: $3,299
REI.com

The newest addition to the DRT family after the DRT 4.1 Fat Bike, the DRT 3.3 is a decent full-suspension trail mountain bike under the $3,000 mark! The bike features all the essentials you see on many mountain bikes with prices that go even higher than $4,000.

The make is built around the 6061 Co-op Cycles’ in-house 6061 durable aluminum frame, the suspension is provided by RockShox Revelation in the front and Deluxe Select + in the rear. Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain is another key strength to the build, so is the 100/150mm dropper post, which is also size-dependant. The 2.4″ tire width is more than enough to ride technical and fast tracks with confidence.

Size-dependant wheel sizes

XS, S frames come with 27.5″ wheels and 120mm of travel.

M, L, and XL frames come with 29″ wheels and 130mm of travel.

We’d recommend checking out the bike ASAP while there are still some sizes around! This bike is definitely a hit for the 2024 season!

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Co-op Cycles – DRT 4.1

One of the best value fat tire bikes available right now

MSRP: $1,399
REI.com

Considering the price tag with the current bicycle market during this pandemic, it is a far too awesome deal not to consider. Co-op Cycles bikes in general have quite high ratings on REI, which is the manufacturer and the only seller of their bikes. Their only fat tire bike on the list has a bunch of durable, mid-range components at an entry-level price range!

The DRT 4.1 is built on a unisex frame that is great for both men and women. Weighing in just under 40 lb, it’s got all the essentials a recreational trail rider is looking for. Sure, it’s not for serious competing, but it will last a long time if taken proper care of!

• Frame and fork. Co-op Cycles is using its traditional 6061 aluminum on the frame and fork – the solid foundations of a moving beast. You’ll find multiple rack&fender mounts and plenty of water-bottle braze-ons all over the bike to get the best trail riding experience.
• Drivetrain. SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain is a great choice by Co-op Cycles bikes this time as it is proved to be having the best gear ratio over time! SRAM X1 1000 Eagle Dub 5 fat crankset with SRAM DUB English BSA 100mm fat bike crankset are taking care of the bike’s durability in the long run.
• Brakes. Shimano Acera MT-400 hydraulic disc brakes are more than enough to stop this beast in all terrains.
• Wheels. The DRT 4.1 bike comes with 26″ aluminum rims that are fitted with 4.8″ wide all-terrain tires. The XL tires make riding on sand, snow, or any uneven surface a breeze

DRT 4.1 Cons

Considering the looks, set-up, and price – there is literally not a single con we could think of. For the price you pay, it’s more than enough for a beginner/intermediate or for a recreational cyclist!

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REI.com

Co-op Cycles – REV DRT

A rough and ready bike for kids who plan to get out there and really test the trails

MSRP: $499
REI.com

A rough and ready bike for kids who plan to get out there and really test the trails and dirt tracks. Great gears and built-in twist shifting on the handlebars make managing the bike simple and hassle-free.

The aluminum frame and Suntour fork are a great combination for a beginner’s bike and will easily handle even the roughest of terrain. Children are known to treat their toys rough but you can rest assured this bike can take the abuse.

Coming in at less than $400, you’ll struggle to find a full-featured kid’s mountain bike for the same price. Considering the REV DRT has hydraulic disc brakes and a Shimano drivetrain, it offers excellent value for the money.

Weight limit: 120lbs / Wheel Size: 24″ / Color: Olive Green

• Frame and fork. The REV DRT Kid’s bike is built around a strong 6061 aluminum frame and supported by an excellent SR Suntour XCT JR24 fork with 80mm travel.
• Drivetrain. Shimano Tourney provides the gearing on the REV DRT Kid’s bike, with a 1×8 speed drivetrain and an 11/34t rear cassette.
• Brakes. Tektro Hydraulic disc brakes ensure excellent braking in any weather conditions. They provide much safer and more responsive braking than caliper or mechanical brakes.
• Wheels. The REV DRT Kid’s bike comes with 24″ aluminum rims fitted with 2.6″ all-terrain tires. The extra-large tires make for an easier and more comfortable ride over bumpy ground.

REV DRT Cons

The REV DRT is quite a solid bike which makes it a bit heavy for a kid’s bike. Some children might find it to be a bit weighty when going uphill. The gear range doesn’t go very low either so best to keep to flatter trails rather than mountains.

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DRT Series Size Chart

Co-op Cycles DRT mountain bike size chart

XXS   |   4’9″ – 5’0″   |   145cm – 152cm
XS   |   5′ – 5’3″   |   152cm – 160cm
S   |   5’3″ – 5’6″   |   160cm – 168cm
M   |   5’6″ – 5’9″   |   168cm – 175cm
L   |   5’9″ – 6′   |   175cm – 183cm
XL   |   6′ – 6’3″   |  183cm – 190cm+

Shop DRT Bikes on REI

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About the Author

Mark Hartley

Mark is a cycling enthusiast and freelance writer specializing in travel and technology. He has traveled to 56 countries worldwide, cycling through Africa and Europe. You can contact him on Twitter @splshrollstmble. Mark is behind most of the current bicycle reviews in Bikexchange today. You can check his journeys @splashrollstumble. Specializes in best-of reviews, bike brand reviews, bicycle reviews.