REI Co-op DRT e1.1
Specifications
Brand
REI Co-op
Model
DRT e1.1
Battery
Lithium-ion
Battery Capacity
500 Wh
Range
Up to 40 Miles
Charge time
5 hours
App
Yes✅
Display
Yes✅
Motor
Mid Drive
Motor Position
-------
Motor Power
75Nm
Top Speed
20mph
Brake System
Hydraulic Disc
Weight
15 kg
Wheel Base
27.5"
Wheel Type
-------
Mudguard
-------
Chain Guard
-------
Drivetrain
Shimano Altus 3×8 SP
Light
Yes✅
Warranty
2 years
Pros & Cons
✅Durable aluminum frame
✅500Wh Battery
✅Multiple Size option
✅Only 4-5hr charging time
❌250W motor
❌One Color
❌High Price
Description
a bicycle with Aluminum alloy frame with a weight of 15kg, a top speed of 20 mph, make it a good combination around $3199. If you daily commute to your workplace or college, this bicycle may be good choice for you. This e-bicycles light weight frame make it easy to carry and enjoy a carefree ride.
How to choice the right bike frame for you
It’s important to get the right bicycle size according to your need. Fortunately, REI Co-op offers a good range of sizes from XS to XL to suit every rider. There are 5 sizes available for the REI Co-op DRT e1.1
Size:
XS:
152cm - 161cm (5'0" - 5'3")
S:
159cm - 169cm (5'2" - 5'6")
M:
166cm - 177cm (5'5" - 5'9")
L:
174cm - 184cm (5'9" - 6'0")
XL:
181cm - 191cm (6'0" - 6'3")
Full Details:
Frequently Asked Questions about REI Co-op DRT e1.1
1. Is the DRT e1.1 a good choice for complete beginners?
Yes. This model is especially well-suited for riders who are new to the world of e-bikes or trail riding. Its design strikes a balance between ease of use and rugged capability. With intuitive controls and smooth pedal assist, beginners won’t feel overwhelmed. Plus, the handling is confidence-inspiring, which makes transitioning from a traditional bike much easier.
2. How does the motor handle steep climbs or rough terrain?
The mid-drive motor may be modest in power on paper, but it’s surprisingly strong when climbing. With ample torque, it distributes power effectively across the gears, making it easier to tackle uneven ground and moderate inclines. While it’s not a full-on mountain e-bike built for extreme trails, it more than holds its own on gravel paths, forest roads, and mild off-road sections.
3. Can I use it for city commuting too?
Absolutely. While the DRT e1.1 is built with trail riding in mind, it performs well on urban roads too. Its comfortable geometry and responsive motor make daily commutes a breeze. Just note that it lacks built-in mudguards or a rack, so if you’re riding in wet weather or carrying work gear, you may want to add some accessories.
4. Is the e-bike heavy to carry or lift?
Compared to most e-bikes, the DRT e1.1 is surprisingly light. At around 15 kg, it’s easy to maneuver and lift onto a bike rack or up a short flight of stairs. This lighter build also improves ride dynamics, especially for those who are more petite or prefer a nimble bike feel.
5. How long does it take to charge the battery, and is the range enough for longer rides?
Charging takes about five hours from empty to full, which is fairly standard for this category. The range—depending on your riding style, assist level, and terrain—can stretch up to around 40 miles. For daily rides or moderate weekend explorations, this is generally sufficient. If you’re planning multi-hour trips into the backcountry, you may want to carry a backup charger or consider more energy-efficient assist levels.
6. Why is there only one color available?
REI Co-op has opted for a minimalist approach to the DRT e1.1’s color selection. While that might not suit riders who love bold or custom looks, the current design is clean, professional, and universally appealing. Hopefully, future updates will bring more personalization options to the lineup.
7. Is it worth the price?
That depends on your expectations. At a glance, the price may seem high compared to similar bikes with similar specs. But REI’s strength lies in reliability, customer support, and the overall build quality. You’re not just paying for components—you’re investing in a bike that’s built to last, backed by a reputable brand with excellent warranty and service standards.
Who Is the DRT e1.1 For?
The REI Co-op DRT e1.1 is ideal for riders looking for a reliable crossover between commuter comfort and light trail performance. It’s not an extreme off-road machine, but it bridges the gap between casual city cycling and adventurous weekend riding.
It’s perfect for:
Commuters who want something sturdier than a typical city e-bike
Recreational riders who explore gravel paths, park trails, and rural backroads
Beginner trail riders looking for their first electric bike that offers some versatility
Fitness-focused cyclists who want to ease into e-biking without giving up physical effort
Its agile frame, responsive power delivery, and clean interface make it a joy to ride, especially for those who value simplicity and efficiency over complicated tech.
Honest Downsides and How to Manage Them
No bike is flawless, and the DRT e1.1 does have a few limitations worth mentioning.
Motor Power: The mid-drive motor doesn’t offer as much raw wattage as some pricier models, which might be noticeable on steep climbs or under heavy load. However, its high torque and mid-drive placement help compensate with better balance and pedal efficiency. Choosing the correct gear while riding can greatly enhance the motor’s effectiveness.
Limited Aesthetic Options: The single-color offering may disappoint those looking to match their gear or personality. It’s a minor gripe but worth noting for riders who care about visual customization.
No Included Accessories: Unlike commuter-oriented e-bikes, this one doesn’t come with standard mudguards or racks. These can be added, but at an additional cost. If you’re planning to commute regularly or ride in mixed weather, budgeting for these extras is a smart move.
Pricing Concerns: For what it offers, some might feel it’s priced slightly above market. That said, REI’s customer service, warranty support, and community-oriented brand reputation help justify the cost, especially for first-time e-bike buyers who want peace of mind.
Future Outlook: What We’d Love to See Next
Looking ahead, REI could enhance the DRT e1.1 by integrating a few small upgrades:
More color options to allow riders a sense of individual expression
Integrated cargo-friendly features, like rack mounts or optional pannier systems
Upgraded display features, perhaps with smartphone integration or GPS support
Optional higher-capacity battery for riders seeking extended trail adventures
These enhancements would make an already solid bike even more versatile and appealing across a wider range of users.
The REI Co-op DRT e1.1 is a well-executed electric bike for casual adventurers and practical commuters alike. It doesn’t overwhelm with high-tech gimmicks or unnecessary complexity. Instead, it offers what matters most: a strong, reliable ride experience backed by a brand known for quality and support.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and balance. It’s light enough for city use, rugged enough for trails, and intuitive enough for new e-bike riders. While it may not lead in any single category, it performs consistently well across the board—and for many riders, that’s exactly what makes it a great long-term choice.