91/100
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91

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Frame

by Ruaan Nel 

May 26, 2023

The REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 is a great bike for those looking for an electric bike that can handle a variety of terrain, from paved roads to grass and packed gravel. 

It has all the features you need in a commuting e-bike; strong welded rear rack, fenders, puncture resistant tires, integrated head and tail lights, Shimano reference design components and excellent brakes.

The motor assist system feels natural with proportional power delivered based on the effort you put in as well as options to mix and match assist level and gears so you can always find your comfort zone.

Not only does this bike perform well but it looks great too with its professional paint job. And with REI's competitive pricing it makes this an excellent buy.

Let's get straight into the details!

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Frame

The CTY e2.2 comes with a 6061 aluminum frame, which is both lightweight and sturdy.

But the frame isn't just functional - it's also designed with style in mind. The step-through frame gives the bike a classic look, while the integrated rear rack is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.  

But the CTY e2.2's frame isn't just about looks and practicality. It's also designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with the adjustable handlebars that allow you to find the perfect riding position. And even though the motor takes some of the effort out of pedaling, the frame is still responsive and easy to handle.

Of course, no bike is perfect, and there are a couple of small issues to be aware of. The seat, for example, is on the stiff side, which may make longer rides less comfortable. And on bumpy roads, the rear fender can rattle a bit - although this is something that REI service may be able to fix. 

Motor And Battery Power

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Battery And Motor

If you're looking for an electric bike that can handle tough terrain and heavy cargo, the CTY e2.2 is definitely worth considering.

With its powerful 250W Shimano motor, this bike is capable of delivering up to 60Nm of torque, ensuring that riders can easily climb hills and navigate difficult terrain without breaking a sweat.

One of the biggest advantages of the CTY e2.2 is its impressive battery life. Thanks to its 504W Shimano battery, this bike can travel for up to 50 miles on a single charge.

This makes it perfect for all-day rides or for commuting to work or school without needing to worry about running out of power.

Another standout feature of the CTY e2.2 is its 9-speed Shimano drivetrain, which is equipped with Acera Rapidfire shifters and an Alivio rear derailleur.

This ensures that riders can easily adjust their speed to match their environment, whether they're cruising down a flat road or navigating a steep hill.

It's also worth noting that the CTY e2.2 is a Class 1 bike, which means that its motor assist is limited to 20 MPH and will gradually taper off near the speed limit. While this might make it less suitable for thrill-seekers who crave high speeds, it's perfect for those who prefer a more leisurely pace and want to enjoy their surroundings without worrying about going too fast.

Wheels & Tires

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Tires

One of the standout features of this bike is its Suntour front suspension fork, which offers 75mm of travel. This means that even on bumpy roads, you can expect a comfortable and stable ride as the fork absorbs any shocks that you might encounter.

A big part of that stability also comes from Schwalbe's Big Ben tires. These tires are 1.95" thick and have a nice, grippy tread that's perfect for wet or icy conditions.

But don't be fooled into thinking that these tires are only good for pavement - they're also great for dirt or gravel roads if you feel like taking the CTY e2.2 on an off-road adventure.

But what good is a comfortable ride if you can't stop when you need to? That's why Co-op opted for Shimano hydraulic disc brakes on the CTY e2.2. These brakes deliver incredible stopping power, even if you have a heavy load on your bike.

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Brakes

All of these features combined make the CTY e2.2 an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable bike that can handle a variety of conditions.

Whether you're commuting to work or going on a leisurely ride through your local park, the CTY e2.2 has got you covered.


PROS

  • The bike has a range of around 40 miles (advertised 50 miles)

  • The kickstand is centrally located and easy for riders to use
  • Very reasonable price

Cons

  • Seat might be too stiff for long rides
  • Not lightweight at 52 pounds

Check out our in-depth review for the REI Co-op Cycles if you want to learn more!


Conclusion

The Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 is an impressive e-bike made for daily commuting - it doesn’t slack when it comes to quality. It’s surprisingly nimble and quick for how heavy it is. The CTY e2.2 just feels like an electric bike that can easily handle tough city streets.

REI Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Frame
Our Rating - 91/100
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The Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 is a dependable e-bike designed for daily commuting tasks. Its durable construction and comfortable build are ideal for the rough and tumble of city streets. 

About the author

Ruaan is an electrical engineer born in South Africa and currently working in Oslo, Norway. He loves tech and gadgets and owns an electric car (Tesla) as well a front-wheel-drive electric bike. He rides his bike all year, even through snow and ice covered roads in the cold winter.

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