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Hello,

I'm looking to get into mountain biking. I've been looking at either the Grand Canyon 5 or the Co-Op DRT 1.1. Any thoughts?? I do like the fact that REl provides free tune ups and repairs for 1 year with the co-op.

Looking to stay in the sub $700 USD range. Nothing extreme when it comes to the trails I’ll be riding. Lot of trails in middle TN.

Hi there,

Both the Grand Canyon 5 and the Co-Op DRT 1.1 are solid choices for a beginner mountain bike, especially for the trails in middle Tennessee. Here are a few considerations for each:

**Grand Canyon 5**:
- Known for its durable frame and reliable components.
- Often praised for its geometry, which provides a stable and comfortable ride.
- Might be slightly more expensive, but Canyon bikes generally have a good reputation for quality.

**Co-Op DRT 1.1**:
- Comes with the benefit of REI’s customer service, including free tune-ups and repairs for a year, which is a huge plus for a beginner.
- Typically offers good value for the price, with decent components and build quality.
- REI’s return policy and support can be very helpful if you run into any issues.

Considering your budget of sub $700 and the added value of REI's support, the Co-Op DRT 1.1 seems like a strong contender. The free tune-ups and repairs can save you money and hassle as you get into the sport. However, if you find the Grand Canyon 5 on sale or within your budget, it’s also a great option to consider.

Ultimately, both bikes should serve you well for the trails in your area. It might also be worth checking which bike fits you better in terms of size and comfort. Happy riding!

The Canyon Grand Canyon 5 has better components (hydraulic brakes, RockShox fork) and performance, but costs a bit more. The Co-Op DRT 1.1 is more budget-friendly with free tune-ups from REI, though it has lower-end components (mechanical brakes). If you can stretch the budget, go for the Canyon; otherwise, the Co-Op is a solid value.

If you value customer support and convenience, the Co-Op DRT 1.1 might be the better choice,Block Blast especially with the free tune-ups.

Both bikes sound like solid options!

Both the Canyon Grand Canyon 5 and Co-Op DRT 1.1 are great choices for starting out. The Canyon offers better components and performance, but you’ll need to handle your own tune-ups. The Co-Op may have slightly lower-end parts but comes with the convenience of free tune-ups at REI, which is ideal if you're new to bike maintenance. Since you're not tackling extreme trails, either will work, but the Co-Op’s service perks could be a nice bonus for you.

A stretched or worn chain won't fit as snugly onto the cogs, increasing the chance of slippage, especially when pressure is applied. Teeth on your gears will likely be skipped as worn gears cannot grip the chain effectively.

Hey TobyAdam,escape road
Great comparison! I’ve heard the Grand Canyon 5’s frame geometry really shines on technical trails.
Have you had a chance to try it on anything more challenging? I'm curious how it handles sharp turns and rocky sections compared to the DRT 1.1.

mylestram wrote: ↑Wed Jun 05, 2024 7:42 pm Hello,

I'm looking to get into mountain biking. I've been looking at either the Grand Canyon 5 or the Co-Op DRT 1.1. Any thoughts?? I do like the fact that REl provides free tune ups and repairs for 1 year with the co-op.

Looking to stay in the sub $700 USD range. Nothing extreme when it comes to the trails I’ll be riding. Lot of trails in middle TN.

Both bikes are good options, but the Co-Op DRT 1.1 stands out because of the free tune-ups and repairs for a year, which is really helpful for beginners. Since you’re planning to ride easy trails in middle TN, the added support can make your experience more enjoyable as you learn. If you get a chance, definitely test ride both to see which one feels better for you!

Tony and Nadine's sledding trip to Japan sounds like an incredible experience! The combination of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling rides must have made for unforgettable memories. It's great to hear how they embraced the adventure and enjoyed the snowy terrain. Can't wait to hear more about their favorite moments!