REI Co-op 1.3 DRT ($1120 after 20% off): https://www.rei.com/product/198727/co-op-cycles-drt-13-mountain-bike
Salsa Rangefinder 11spd ($1099 + pedals): https://www.rei.com/product/184685/salsa-rangefinder-deore-11-speed-29-mountain-bike
Been mulling over my options for a while and was just gonna by the Salsa Rangefinder. However the upcoming sale where all co-op cycles are 20% brings the 1.3 DRT in line with the Rangefinders price and it seems like the DRT 1.3 is basically strictly better but I know the Co-op bikes dont get much love.
Similar specs except the 1.3 DRT has:
- lockout on fork
- bit better geometry (67 vs 68.5)
- through axel instead of quick release
Unsure how to compare fork, dropper post, derailleur, shifters, etc. It doesnt list weight but seems like most other DRT are around 32-33 which I understand is on the heavier side, while the salsa is 31 + pedals (so not a big difference right). Small, kinda weird consideration, but looks like the Rangefinder can support a rear rack. Is that possible with the DRT? Also not sure if the 68.5 might be kinda nice since I plan to ride this on paved surfaces as well and the trails will be fairly easy midwestern stuff without too much elevation (but figure I'd still appreciate the slacker DRT). Anything else to consider?
For the record i prefer not to buy used (because Im a noob and cant easily evaluate on case by case basis, as you can see) and would like to buy from REI for the 1 year return so these are really the only bikes im seriously considering in this range for the moment. Also consider that I've already increased my limit from $800 to $1100 so I don't need any "for just a little bit more" suggestions to further tempt me lol
by recursing_noether