How to Choose Hybrid Bikes

Tackle what the city throws at ya. The Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1 bike has a shock-absorbing fork for pothole-filled roads and a 2 x 8 drivetrain for optimal options without overcomplicating shifting.
Imported.
| Best Use | Urban Cycling |
|---|---|
| Frame | Aluminum |
| Step-Through | No |
| Bike Suspension | Front Suspension |
| Fork | SR Suntour Nex DS |
| Fork Travel | 63 millimeters |
| Crankset | Shimano 46/30T |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano Square Taper |
| Shifters | Shimano Altus 8-speed Rapidfire |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano 2x |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Altus |
| Rear Cogs | Shimano CS-HG31; 8-speed; 11-34T |
| Number of Gears | 16 gear(s) |
| Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc Brake |
| Brakes | Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brake |
| Brake Levers | Tektro 2-finger |
| Rims | Co-op Cycles |
| Front Hub | Shimano; 32h; quick-release |
| Rear Hub | Shimano; 32h; quick-release |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
| Tires | Kenda Kick-Back, 700c x 40 mm with reflective sidewall and K-Shield |
| Tire Width | 40 millimeters |
| Handlebar Shape | Riser Bar |
| Handlebar | Promax Riser; 6 deg. upsweep; 8 deg. backsweep; 25 mm rise; 31.8 mm diameter at center; 6061 aluminum |
| Stem | Alloy |
| Seat Post | Co-op Cycles; 6061 aluminum |
| Saddle | Selle Royal Shadow+ with gel |
| Pedals | Platform |
| Headset | Semi-integrated threadless |
| Chain | KMC HG40 |
| Weight | 30 lbs. 8 oz. |
| Bike Weight | Bike weight is based on median size, as sold, or the average of two median sizes. |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Sustainability | From a Climate Label Certified brand |
| XS | S | M | L | XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 5'0" - 5'3" | 5'3" - 5'6" | 5'6" - 5'9" | 5'9" - 6'0" | 6'0" - 6'3" |
| Reach | 355 | 364.3 | 374.2 | 384.4 | 394.6 |
| Stack | 588.2 | 588.2 | 607 | 640 | 658.7 |
| Effective Top Tube | 518 | 533 | 554 | 580 | 596 |
| Seat Tube Center-Top | 350 | 400 | 450 | 500 | 550 |
| Standover Height | 719.6 | 749.2 | 785.5 | 827.5 | 863.8 |
| Head Tube Angle (degrees) | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| Seat Tube Angle (degrees) | 74.5 | 74 | 73.5 | 73 | 73 |
| Wheelbase | 1,039 | 1,049 | 1,065 | 1,087 | 1,105 |
| Chainstay | 445 | 445 | 445 | 445 | 445 |
Measurements are stated in millimeters unless otherwise indicated.
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
I have the Co-Op 2.1 for about 2 years now and I am very happy with its performance. I have about 650 miles on the bike and it still feels solid. I am 6', 250lbs and have the XL frame. It's a good fit for me. I considered other name brands but ultimately decided on the CO-OP 2.1. I feel like I made the right decision.
So I just picked the bike up yesterday, and this morning I rode 12mi. I live in a very hilly community, and was worried about the gears, but the bike got me through, though in much pain (good pain I suppose). The front suspension handled parts of the road that was bumpy pretty well. I really have no complaints. Glad I made the purchase, and like the guy on a road bike told me (while coaching me up a long incline), you’re out sight seeing, exercising is a bonus. I told him my behind was hurting and he laughed. Just ordered the top tube co-op junction bag, as well as a bunch more stuff. Thoroughly pleased with the purchase and happy to be on the road to fitness.
The metal REI uses is likely defective presenting serious injury risk and REI management has shown no interest in investigating. After approximately 1.5 years of routine use on multi use paths and streets, an REI mechanic said he could not properly tighten the stem near where the handlebar junction is. He advised replacing the stem and all related components. A stem should not fail after a 1.5 year of routine use. I noted that the metallurgy is likely defective. The REI manager refused to honor the warranty that REI stands by every product it sells. Having a handlebar come loose while riding ought to worry everyone. Be very careful buying this model.
I went to buy a bike at REI that would allow me to ride fire roads, and bikepack. I was going to buy a mountain bike. Staff at REI suggested this hybrid/gravel bike instead. The biggest problem is the rear cog, which only has 34 teeth. This is fine for flat terrain, but anything more than a mild grade, and you are pushing the bike up the hill. Also, silly design of the tires. There is reflective tape on sides which make it impossible to see the size, and recommended air pressure. I am returning the bike. Good news is that I upgraded to a REI DRT 2.2. 50 teeth on rear cog allows me to go up steeper hills.
Bought three weeks ago and have 15 miles. My area has lots of short hills …… love the bike. It replaced my mountain bike of twenty years that just never did it for me. Now I am pushing my self to ride it ! The combination of improved speed and smooth ride (suspension) works for me. Don’t go crazy over all the details. If the bike meets your price point and needs ….. an excellent choice. Gary
I have had my city bike 2.1 for about 3 1/2 years and I still love it. I’ve put 4300 miles on it. It has great components, with no squeaks or rattles, and has been backed up by outstanding service. My purchase of it was great decision.
I'm 6'1, wifey is 6'2. We often struggle to find things that fit us and the XL is primo. A super sturdy bike, light enough for what our needs are (casual and leisurely street and road cycling) it is a perfect fit for the child seat we mounted on the rear rack.
This is the perfect bike for what it is designed to do; easy cruising with friends in the city, or on packed dirt and gravel, yet equipped with a solid drivetrain which has the ability to get up to speed. The front suspension makes for a comfortable ride across varied terrain. I used this for group rides of 40 to 50 people throughout the city (Columbia, SC), and for longer rides which varied from pavement to gravel. The drivetrain is better than you might think for what could be your perfect commuter bike. If you are looking for something which brings the simple joy of riding, with a drivetrain which allows you to do more than cruising, then this might be the bike for you!
I am 5’10 and the size chart recommends a L fit, but I preferred the fit of the XL. I felt a bit hunched over on the L and preferred the more upright feel of the XL. Nice ride though.
I do a lot of beach path riding, this bike performs well, looks great
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.

