A Good Choice For Beginners?

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links (learn more).

In this Co-op DRT 1.2 hardtail mountain bike review, you learn whether it’s worth your money.

I will highlight its pros and cons, scrutinize its features, and compare it with its alternatives.

Spoiler alert: DRT 1.2 is one of the best mountain bikes for under $1000 you can buy. It’s a great choice for beginners and those who want to tackle some local trails. It has hydraulic disc brakes for effective stopping power, a wide gear range (18spd), and comes with wide, knobby tires to give you the needed traction. Buy DRT 1.2 here or continue reading for more info.

Co-op DRT 1.2 Pros and Cons

Here are the main pros and cons of this bike:

Main Features

Let’s now talk about its main features.

Frame and Geometry

The DRT 1.2 has the same aluminum frame as the more high-end Co-op DRT 2.1. Aluminum is affordable but reasonably lightweight and durable, so it is a popular choice.

The bike’s geometry is specifically designed for trail riding, featuring a slack head angle and extended reach that ensures stability and effortless handling on descents.

Moreover, it boasts a short stem and longer reach, providing a more dynamic riding posture and improved bike control.

It’s worth noting that earlier models of this bike had distinct geometry, notably a considerably shorter reach.

Suspension Fork

The SR Suntour XCR is a popular entry-level fork that offers decent performance for its price, albeit with a noticeable weight penalty. It weighs 2459g but you can “easily” upgrade it to a superior fork if desired.

It’s important to note that unlike the DRT 2.1, all frame sizes come with a 120mm travel fork, which is relatively short compared to the typical 120-150mm travel found in most trail hardtails.

This means it may struggle to handle extremely demanding terrain, so don’t expect exceptional ride comfort on challenging trails.

Nonetheless, it does feature adjustable suspension and a manual lockout, allowing for personalized tuning according to your riding style and preferences.

2X Drivetrain

The DRT 1.2 bike doesn’t follow the current trend of using a 1X drivetrain, which many beginners prefer for a broader gear range.

Instead, it combines Shimano Altus and Alivio components, providing a 2×8spd setup. This ensures you’ll have the right gear for any terrain, whether going uphill or downhill.

However, it’s important to note that a 2X drivetrain comes with a front derailleur, adding complexity and requiring a proper shifting technique to avoid cross-chaining.

Wheels

This bike has 27.5 tubeless-ready wheels and WTB Trail Boss 27.5 x 2.4″ tires. However, it’s important to remember that the tires are clinchers, so if you want to switch to a tubeless setup, you’ll need to pay extra for tubeless tires and the tire swap.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that 27.5 wheels are more nimble and accelerate faster compared to larger 29-inch wheels.

Other Things to Consider

Depending on your preferences, you may find that the grips on the Co-op DRT 1.2 are relatively thin and hard, requiring a replacement to ensure a comfortable fit, especially on longer rides.

However, the bike comes with platform pedals, so there’s no need to purchase them separately.

Co-op DRT 1.2 Specifications

Here are the most important specifications of the Co-op DRT 1.2.

Co-op DRT 1.2 Alternatives

DRT 1.2 has many alternatives (basically most mountain bikes for under $1000). But I want to highlight the Polygon Xtrada 5 and Cannondale Trail 6.

Both these hardtails have a shorter reach, but the Trail 6 has shorter fork travel and 29″ wheels for some frame sizes.

Co-op DRT FAQ

Conclusion

The Co-op DRT 1.2 is an excellent option for beginners. I suggest waiting for a discount since REI frequently offers them.

With an REI membership, you can also access discounts on various services, including bike shop services, making the bike’s value difficult to beat.

However, it’s important to note that the bike does have some drawbacks, such as its relatively high weight and limited fork travel. Additionally, the long reach may not suit for everyone.