REI Co-op CTY e2.2

1. Is the CTY e2.2 good for everyday commuting?
Absolutely. This is where the CTY e2.2 really proves its value. If your daily commute involves city streets, light inclines, and a mix of bike lanes and traffic, this e-bike offers enough power and support to get you there without breaking a sweat. It’s especially useful for those who don’t want to arrive at work needing a shower. The relatively lightweight frame also makes parking, locking, and maneuvering through tight spots much more convenient than bulkier models.

2. Can it handle hills or just flat terrain?
Thanks to the mid-drive motor, this bike performs better on hills than its motor wattage might suggest. It won’t fly up steep inclines like a 750W model, but it’s competent for most urban hills and rolling terrain. You’ll notice the power assist kicking in just when your legs start to strain. It’s not a mountain climber, but it doesn’t pretend to be.

3. What’s the real-world battery range?
In practice, most riders can expect around 35–45 miles on a single charge when using a mix of assist levels. If you’re conservative with power or mainly ride on flat terrain, you may get close to the upper end of the range. On the other hand, constant use of high assist or riding against strong headwinds may cut it closer to 30 miles. Either way, it covers most commutes easily, and with the short charging time, overnight top-ups are more than sufficient.

4. How portable is the bike for storage or transport?
The aluminum frame keeps the weight surprisingly low, especially for an electric bike. At under 24 kg, it’s still heavier than a traditional city bike but much easier to lift than many other e-bikes. If you live in a small apartment or need to carry it up a short flight of stairs, it’s manageable—though not something you’d want to do all day. Its slim profile also helps with storage, fitting easily into standard bike racks or tight garage spaces.

5. Are the integrated lights reliable?
This is one of the areas where users have mixed experiences. While the lights work well enough once active, turning them on isn’t always intuitive, and some riders report needing to press multiple buttons or scroll through settings. It’s a small annoyance, but one worth mentioning. Once you get used to the sequence, it becomes second nature—but expect a bit of a learning curve at first.

6. Is the app necessary to enjoy the bike’s features?
Not at all, though it adds a nice layer of convenience. The app can provide useful metrics, such as trip distance, battery life, and assist levels. But if you prefer to ride tech-free, you can rely on the bike’s built-in display and still get a smooth, efficient ride. For those who like tracking stats or optimizing their battery usage, the app becomes a bonus rather than a necessity.

7. Can this bike be customized or upgraded later?
There’s room for personalization in terms of accessories—like panniers, racks, or a more cushioned saddle. However, the core components (like motor and battery) are not designed for easy upgrades. This is a commuter-friendly, integrated system rather than a modder’s platform. That’s ideal for someone who wants reliable simplicity but may not suit those who love to tinker.