REI Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1 Electric Bike – Review 2023 

The REI Generation e1.1 bike is part of its new Co-op Cycles Generation e electric bikes that were launched in June this year. There are two e-bikes in this series, e1.1 and e1.2. Nate Nielsen, the REI general manager for cycles, says, “This e-bike line was designed to help make it easier for people to hop on and go.” These are a new category of one-size-fits-most lifestyle bikes made to make commuting easier. 

How We Reviewed

Though REI Co-op did approach the BikesReviewed team to be one of the first testers of their new Generation e1.1 bike, this review is not incentivized. Our team has personally tested the bike’s performance and provided an honest and unbiased review.

Technical Specifications:

This section summarizes the technical specifications of the REI Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1 Electric Bike under 7 categories - frameset, wheels, motor, battery, drivetrain, components, and weight.

Overview

The REI Generation e1.1 is a Class 1 e-bike with a pedal assist of up to 20 mph, which makes up for the absence of the throttle in this e-bike classification. You can choose from 5 different assistance levels or ride on walk mode with no assistance. 

Construction

Components

The Generation e1.1 has a Shimano Altus 7-speed drivetrain with a 47t crankset, making gear shifting very smooth and efficient. It has the Tektro Hydraulic brakes with 180 mm rotors that are very reliable and offer effective stopping power even at 20 mph and on wet city streets.

The handlebar is made of 6061 aluminum and has a riser bar shape. The handlebar stem is adjustable, which lets you pull the handlebar close to you or push it further away, allowing people of different sizes to use it comfortably.

The saddle has memory foam, allowing you to commute long distances without straining yourself. The e1.1 has front and rear lights that run on the battery, so you don’t have to worry about charging them separately. You can turn them on via the control panel. 

Also, the downtube has 3 bolts to mount water bottles. The rear cargo rack is incredibly strong and specifically designed to carry a wide range of bike bags and panniers.

The Bafang battery does what the manufacturer promises - it lasts 30 to 40 miles on a full charge on various terrains.

How Does it Feel to Ride a Generation e1.1?

The front suspension offered by the SR Suntour SF20 Mobie A32 Cargo fork makes rides on bumpy terrain feel comfortable, and it is very reliable even on uphill rides even for people over 200 pounds. It accelerates very quickly. It is very gentle, which adds to its comfort, and is also very nimble, allowing you to take sharp turns and navigate narrow streets comfortably.

When on maximum assist level (5), the bike takes off really quickly and then levels out after a while. The lower assist levels (like 1 and 2) feel more consistent in terms of taking off and then helping you through the rest of the ride at the same pace. The acceleration is much more gentle than most electric bikes; it seems to have lower torque.

Riding the Generation e1.1 is a very fun experience. You can use it for just a recreational ride down a trail, a good workout, or to run errands and do your groceries. The small frame is not really to our preference, but it is not uncomfortable.

Why Should You Buy the REI Generation e1.1 Electric Bike?

The REI Generation e1.1 offers many features - 5 assist levels, 7-speed drivetrain, rear rack, front suspension, removable battery, along with solid construction at a very affordable price point of $1,499. So, one of the main reasons you should definitely consider buying this bike is the great value for money it offers.

It is very nimble, gentle and easy to handle, making it a great option for commuting (even on bumpy terrains) and running errands. You can even place all your groceries on the sturdy rear rack. This e-bike is very versatile, which means you can use it for a solid workout or a fun ride down a beautiful trail. 

All these plus points are apart from the Coast to Coast support service that REI has just launched for its e-bikes. The new maintenance program includes:

• Complimentary in-store bike assembly

• 1 year of adjustments

• Access to on-call bike experts

• 170+ bike shops

• Free standard shipping to store

If you are an REI member, you receive some additional services like:

• 2 years of adjustments

• Early access to popular gear

• Flat tire fixes

• 20% off shop services

• 10% back on eligible purchases

Now, you’ve got to admit that's a great deal!

The Endnote:

The REI Generation e1.1 is a versatile e-bike with high-quality components that offer top-level performance. The 30-40-mile riding range ensures you can cover long distances without worrying about the battery running out on you. 

The weight limit of 300 lbs allows you to store at least 100 lbs of gear or other items on the sturdy rear rack. The 5-level assist allows you to take this e-bike for a ride uphill with ease and the front suspension fork makes bumpy rides smoother.

This e-bike is one-size-fits-most, so your entire family can use it without investing in different frame sizes.

If you are looking for a commuter or recreational city bike that can handle running errands, steep climbs and everything else that comes with living in an urban area, the Bikes Reviewed team definitely recommends the REI Co-op Generation e1.1.

Note: The REI Generation e1.1 is only available to REI members at this moment and will be available to everybody from 1st September 2023. If you wish to purchase the bike before that, you can get a lifetime REI membership for only $30 and enjoy the additional benefits that come with it.