Co-op DRT 1.1 Review
- Price: $599
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5″ Aluminum
- Gear: 3 x 7
What we like about it: The rugged and durable frame with reliable components on this hardtail mountain bike.
What we didn’t like about it: Quick-release wheel mounting system not suitable for intense off-road riding.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Co-op DRT 1.1 features a sturdy aluminum alloy frame and reliable components, making it the ideal choice for beginners looking to venture into mountain biking without breaking the bank.
Below, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Co-op DRT 1.1. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several top bicycle models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is a hardtail mountain bike designed specifically for beginners, with a sturdy frame and high-quality components. I was eager to take it for a ride and experience its performance.
I decided to head to a nearby park with dense tree cover, unpaved dirt trails, and some gravel sections. The route included mild off-road sections with both uphill climbs and downhill descents, making it suitable for testing the Co-op DRT 1.1.
Flat Terrain Riding
When riding on flat, unpaved gravel trails, I immediately noticed that pedaling felt smooth and effortless. The hardtail design ensured that every pedal stroke had efficient power transfer, and I didn’t experience any noticeable drag.
The Shimano drivetrain components provided seamless gear shifting, allowing me to find the right gear combination for optimal speed and efficiency.
The SR Suntour suspension fork with 100mm of travel did an excellent job of absorbing vibrations on these uneven surfaces, enhancing overall riding comfort.
Furthermore, the bike’s comfortable geometry allowed me to maintain an upright riding posture, even during extended rides, reducing fatigue.
Climbing and Descending
I particularly enjoyed the climbing experience with this bike. Its drivetrain efficiency was impressive during ascents, responding positively to each pedal stroke and enabling me to climb faster.
When I felt the uphill pedaling becoming strenuous, I adjusted the gear ratio to a lighter setting, conserving energy. The off-road tires provided excellent traction, minimizing any slipping during uphill climbs and improving efficiency.
During descents, the bike remained reliable. The SR Suntour suspension fork worked quickly and responsively on uneven terrain, ensuring stability during downhill rides.
The 27.5-inch wheels offered good off-road capability and agile handling, making it easy to navigate mild off-road trails.
Lastly, the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes delivered outstanding stopping power and durability. I could easily control my descent speed, ensuring a safe riding experience.
Specifications
The Co-op DRT 1.1 comes in 5 frame sizes, suitable for riders with heights ranging from 5’1″ to 6’5″. Its external cable routing not only enhances the rugged appearance but also simplifies component maintenance and replacement.
The Shimano drivetrain components provide smooth and durable gear shifting. The Tektro hydraulic disc brakes offer reliable braking performance even in challenging conditions.
The SR Suntour suspension fork with 100 millimeters of travel effectively absorbs road vibrations, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable riding experience. The 27.5-inch wheels provide agile and responsive handling.
Video
Other Versions
The Co-op DRT 1.1 is a reliable and durable hardtail bike suitable for everyday riding and light off-roading. It’s a powerful entry-level mountain bike, making it an excellent choice for beginner riders.
For this reason, we offer a similar model within the same series, featuring the same frame material and equally reliable components for consistent performance.
2023 Co-op DRT 1.0
The Co-op DRT 1.0 also features an aluminum alloy frame known for its durability. It shares the same SR Suntour suspension fork, Shimano 3×7 drivetrain components, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.
However, the Co-op DRT 1.0 comes with smaller frame sizes and wheel dimensions, making it suitable for teenagers and female riders of shorter stature.
Below, we will provide detailed specifications of the 2023 Co-op DRT 1.1 and list some other hardtail mountain bikes from different brands with similar price ranges for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- The Co-op DRT 1.1 offers a wide range of frame sizes to accommodate various riders.
- External cable routing simplifies maintenance and gives it a rugged appearance.
- The 27.5-inch wheels provide agile handling for a versatile riding experience.
- Reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes deliver consistent stopping power, even in challenging conditions.
- The SR Suntour suspension fork offers 100mm of travel for a smoother ride and better control.
- Shimano drivetrain components provide efficient power transfer and smooth gear shifting.
What don’t we like about it?
- The quick-release wheel mounting system is not suitable for intense off-road riding.
FAQ
- How does this bike perform?
It is an excellent choice for an entry-level mountain bike, equipped with a high-quality Shimano drivetrain system and reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.
- Who is this bike suitable for?
It offers exceptional value for entry-level riders.
- How do I choose the right size?
We provide a size chart for reference, but the best way to find the perfect fit is to try it out in person.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’6″ | XS |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | S |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | M |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’5″ | XL |
Co-op DRT 1.1 Specs
Build
| Frame | Co-op Cycles 6061 aluminumColors: Ether; Pirate Black |
| Fork | SR Suntour, 100 millimeters |
| Bottom Bracket | Cartridge bearing square |
| Headset | External headset |
| Stem | Co-op Cycles 6061 |
| Handlebar | Co-op Cycles |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Sport |
| Seatpost | Co-op Cycles, 27.2 diameter |
| Pedals | Co-op Cycles |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano TourneyFront Derailleur |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tourney |
| Crank | Shimano Tourney 42-34-24 |
| Shifters | Shimano Rapidfire Plus |
| Cassette | Shimano 12-32, 7-speed |
| Chain | KMC 7-speed |
| Chain Guide | None |
| Brakes | Tektro hydraulic disc Hydraulic Disc Brake |
| Brake Levers | Tektro |
Wheels
| Rims | Co-op Cycles 27.5, 32 H |
| Front Hub | Shimano alloy |
| Rear Hub | Shimano alloy |
| Tires | Kenda Kadre |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Travel | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 | Click View | 80mm front | Aluminum | Shimano MT200 | 1 × 12 |
| Specialized Rockhopper Expert 27.5 | Click View | 100mm front | Aluminum | SRAM Level | 1 × 12 |
| Liv Tempt 5 | Click View | 80mm front | Aluminum | TKB-172, mechanical | 2 × 7 |
| Marin Bolinas Ridge 1 | Click View | 100mm front | Aluminum | Shimano w/ Integrated Shifters | 3 × 7 |
Co-op DRT 1.1 vs. Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3
When comparing these two bikes, the former has a longer 100mm suspension travel compared to the latter’s 80mm, but the latter offers better fork support, enhanced suspension sensitivity, and greater durability.
In terms of drivetrain components, the latter is equipped with the superior SRAM SX 1×12-speed drivetrain, which provides crisp and precise shifting. The single chainring design simplifies gear changes, allowing riders to maintain better focus. The former offers more gear options, providing higher speeds on flat terrain.
Lastly, the latter offers a wider range of wheel sizes and more tire combinations to choose from.
In summary, the Trek Marlin 8 Gen 3 delivers superior performance. If your budget allows, this bike is the better choice.
Learn More: Is Trek Marlin 8 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 8 Review]
Co-op DRT 1.1 vs. Specialized Rockhopper Expert 27.5
They share the same 100mm suspension travel and 27.5-inch wheel size.
However, the latter uses an internal cable routing design, giving it a cleaner and neater appearance, and making it easier to clean in daily maintenance. The former’s external cable routing design, on the other hand, offers greater convenience in terms of maintenance.
In the drivetrain department, the latter is equipped with the SRAM SX 1×12-speed components, which provide better performance and are more suitable for off-road riding. The former offers more gear options, resulting in higher speeds on flat terrain.
In conclusion, between these two bikes, the Specialized Rockhopper Expert 27.5 offers superior performance. If your budget allows, I would recommend it more.
Co-op DRT 1.1 vs. Liv Tempt 5
These are two closely related bikes. The former has a longer suspension travel, making it better suited for riding on rough terrain.
In terms of drivetrain components, both of these bikes use Shimano Tourney-level mountain bike components. However, the former is a 3×7-speed setup, offering a richer and more versatile selection of gears compared to the latter’s 2×7-speed configuration.
Finally, in the braking department, the former is equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, which offer better braking performance than the mechanical disc brakes on the latter. They can maintain efficient braking performance even after prolonged use.
So, between these two bikes, I would recommend the Co-op DRT 1.1 more because it has a slight advantage in components.
Learn More: Is Liv Tempt 3 a Good Choice? – [Liv Tempt 3 Review]
Co-op DRT 1.1 vs. Marin Bolinas Ridge 1
When comparing these two bikes, both of them feature frames with external cable routing, but the latter has a more aesthetically pleasing paint design.
In terms of suspension components, both have 100mm of suspension travel, suitable for everyday riding and mild off-road cycling. The drivetrain components also use the Shimano Tourney 3×7-speed system, providing smooth shifting and reliability.
Finally, in the braking department, I prefer the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes equipped on the Co-op DRT 1.1. They maintain reliable braking performance even in adverse conditions.
Overall, these two bikes have their strengths. The former has a more appealing appearance, while the latter boasts better-performing components. You can choose based on your priorities.
Learn More: Is Marin Bolinas Ridge 1 A Perfect Selection? – [Marin Bolinas Ridge 1 Review]
Summary
Above is my riding review of the Co-op DRT 1.1. In our view, it’s a sturdy and reliable hardtail mountain bike that offers stable and efficient performance within a reasonable price range, earning it a rating of 4.8.
Of course, if you’re interested in other hardtail mountain bikes, we also review a variety of bikes at different price points, and there are many exciting options out there. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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