REI's Bestselling E-Bike That's 'Genuinely Fun' to Ride and 'Great' for Commuting Is Now 40% Off
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REI is in the midst of a massive outdoor gear sale that includes everything from bestselling tents and sleeping bags to camp kitchen tools and all sorts of hiking footwear. But the sale isn't limited to camping—plenty of outdoor sports equipment and hobby gear are on sale, too, including some of the brand's best e-bikes from Co-Op Cycles that offer impressive performance at value-oriented prices.
Whether you’re e-bike-curious or you’re adding to the collection, the Co-Op Cycles Generation e1.1 E-bike is a great first or n+1 model thanks to its zippy performance and cargo capabilities. Typically $1,499, it’s currently 40% off, which drops the price to just $899. That’s a savings of $600, so you can expect stock to sell out quickly. There are two colors to choose from, including “Pitch Black” and a neutral mid-blue called “Crater Lake.” It comes in one size, but its wide adjustability is designed to suit different heights.
Co-Op Cycles Generation e1.1 Electric Bike in Crater Lake, $899 (was $1499) at REI
The e-bike market is getting crowded, made even more confusing by the fact that there are three different classes. As a Class 1 e-bike, this one is pedal-assisted, tops out at 20 mph, and has no throttle, meaning it can ride anywhere traditional bikes are permitted. It has five pedal assist modes, giving you more oomph up hills when you need it or letting you cruise when you don’t. The battery is also removable, meaning it can be conveniently charged at your desk or in your apartment without having to lug the whole bike up a flight of stairs. It has a 30-40-mile average range, which is sufficient for most commutes and great for leisurely rides.
Other features add to its utility as a commuter or grocery hauler. The included rear rack is great for attaching pannier bags, while the step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off the bike. It has front and rear lights that are powered by the bike’s battery, giving you one less thing to charge. It also has hydraulic disc brakes that add robust stopping power, while the front suspension easily smooths out bumpy terrain. The bike uses components from reputed brands, including Shimano shifters and puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires.
REI shoppers were impressed with the bike’s performance and range, and many found the pedal assist to be “better than a throttle, any day.” One shopper wrote that it had “plenty of torque for most hills,” while another wrote, “We are in our late 60s, so, starting to slow down, but with the great assist mechanism on these bikes there is no slowing down! Even on steep hills, I have never [had to use] the boost higher than 3 out of 5.”
Co-Op Cycles Generation e1.1 Electric Bike in Pitch Black, $899 (was $1499) at REI
It’s also a practical option for getting around town. “Great for [the] daily commute,” a shopper said. “Love using my bike for a 2-mile commute into campus. Great to avoid the parking hassles.”
In addition to its utility, others simply found it fun to ride. "Genuinely fun," an excited shopper said. “This bike handles so well, takes on steep hills, is sturdy, and is fun to ride. Taken it on urban streets and on bike trails close to home."
Whether you’re looking to get to the office without working up too much of a sweat or you just want a fun bike for zipping around bike paths on the weekend, REI’s Generation e1.1 E-bike is an excellent value. It's an even better deal now that it's $600 off, though, so make sure to pick yours up soon, because stock is already low.
