Electric bicycles have seen exploding popularity in recent years. With efficient motors amplifying pedal power, e-bikes open cycling to more people while reducing barriers like challenging terrain or long distances. They simply make riding more fun and accessible!
In response to surging e-bike demand, established players plus newer startups now offer literally hundreds of battery-powered models spanning features and budgets. So for buyers, selecting the right electric bike for their needs and budget can feel downright overwhelming.
That decision process led you here – debating between two high value electric bikes praised for quality and performance: the Velotric Discover 1 and Co-Op Cycles CTY e1.1.
Both companies have cultivated loyal followings. Veteran brand Velotric uses a direct-to-consumer sales model to deliver feature-rich e-bikes at reasonable prices. Meanwhile REI Co-op‘s own cycling range targets value-focused riders with quality electric and pedal bikes carrying the respected outdoors retailer‘s name.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll closely compare every aspect of the Discover 1 and CTY e1.1 models – from motors and batteries to ergonomics and ride feel. By scrutinizing key performance metrics and componentry while also assessing ownership experiences, we‘ll help match you with the best e-bike for your needs and terrain.
Let‘s examine what sets these two affordable electric bikes apart!
Brand Histories: Tradition Meets Modern Direct Sales
First, some background on these rapidly-growing labels aiming to make e-biking practical for the masses.
Velotric launched through an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign in 2020 after founders leveraged direct relationships with Southeast Asian manufacturers to build quality electric bikes at disruptive price points. Their distinctive step-through models found fans among urban commuters plus taller or less mobile riders.
Headquartered in Brooklyn, Velotric has expanded its range to over a dozen wheel sizes and purposes. The Discover 1 remains one of their most popular multi-use models – equally at home shuttling kids as cruising bike lanes. Velotric sells exclusively online, passing manufacturing savings directly to owners.
REI Co-op Cycles spun off the outdoor retail giant‘s respected house brand in 2015 following years perfecting economical, performance-focused bikes and components for REI shoppers. What began as a basic but reliable lineup tailored for outdoorsy riders has evolved into a full-scale value bike brand sold through REI‘s websites and brick-and-mortar stores.
While not exclusively electric, REI Co-op has leaned into the e-bike boom with models like the CTY e1.1 aimed squarely at urban mobility. Designed and backed by REI‘s customer service infrastructure, Co-op bikes target new riders seeking quality without paying for flashy labels.
Now let‘s scrutinize how these pedigrees translate into key areas today‘s e-bike buyers prioritize…
Ergonomics and Comfort Factors
Spending long days in the saddle commuting or adventuring requires an e-bike tuned for comfort across varied terrain. Where road vibrations can fatigue bodies over time, bikes minimizing strain keep riders energized mile after mile.
The Discover 1 uses a low step-through 6061 aluminum allow frame to enable easy mounting and dismounting – handy for riders with limited mobility. Velotric finishes the frames in fun colors like army green, blue, white and black with subtle branding.
Discover 1 models meant for taller riders expand total weight capacity to a cavernous 440 lbs while accommodating riders from 5‘ up to a towering 6‘ 9". Adjustable handlebar stems and long seat posts deliver further fit customization for people of all shapes and sizes.
But it‘s the thoughtful ergonomic touches setting the Discover 1 apart for all-day riding happiness. An anatomical saddle combined with swept-back handlebars places the wrists and sits bones at natural angles to minimize pressure points across long distances. Generous customization potential enables truly dialed-in setups.
In contrast, the CTY leans into traditional performance bike geo with a sloped top tube and moderately aggressive rider positioning. It forgoes the ultra-low step-through frame in favor of smaller triangle sizing for responsively carving corners and climbing hills.
While limiting easy mounting access compared to the Discover 1, Co-op does incorporate an ergonomic handlebar and comfort-oriented saddle. Seat post and stem options accommodate riders up to about 6‘ 3" tall. Smaller wheel size choices better fit petite riders down to 4‘ 10".
So whether bombing down city streets or cruising wooded paths, the Discover 1 prioritizes accessibility and dialed comfort for the broadest range of bodies. Yet the CTY still delivers a compliant ride too – just skewed moderately toward athletic performance.
Comfort & Ergonomics – Advantage Discover 1
Range and Charging: Maximize Miles Per Charge
For riders pinched by range anxiety, both the Discover 1 and CTY e1. pack sufficient battery capacity for full days of assisted riding between charges. But which model best minimizes mid-ride stress when mileage markers begin ticking downward?
| Specification | Discover 1 | CTY e1.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 48V/16Ah Samsung Cells | 48V/10.3Ah LG Cells |
| Range | 55 miles real world | 40 miles estimated |
| Recharge Time | 6 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Battery Lock | Yes | Yes |
| Removable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Max Power Assist | 500W | 250W |
Velotric equips the Discover 1 with a hearty 48-volt/691 watt-hour battery built from durable Samsung power cells. Riders toggle between three pedal assist modes via handlebar buttons to regulate motor contribution. Velotric estimates 65 miles maximum range, albeit testing proves roughly 55 miles more typical for blended riding.
Co-Op Cycles utilizes a smaller 48-volt/450 watt-hour power pack co-developed with LG for the CTY e1.1 – about 30% less total capacity versus the Discover 1. Yet thanks to a tighter overall e-bike integration, the CTY manages an impressively efficient ~40 mile real world range.
Both batteries lock securely into downtubes for charging or theft prevention. Conveniently swap spares into downtubes in seconds for instantly extended range.
When it‘s time to top up, the Discover 1 and CTY recharge a fully depleted battery pack in around six and five hours respectively. Both exceed norms for the price.
Range & Charging: Slight Advantage Discover 1
Power & Performance: motors, torque & speed
Ebike motors supplement human pedal strokes with electrified oomph taking the slog out of challenging terrain. More power translates directly to swifter acceleration and higher top speeds up to 20mph legal limits.
In raw performance numbers, the Discover 1‘s 500 watt Shengyi hub motor handily out-muscles the CTY‘s 250 watt unit – double the rated power. Wielding 80 Nm of torque from a standstill, the Discover surges ahead aggressively when dispatching stop signs or steep pitches. A handy twist throttle provides motor power without pedaling.
Conversely the CTY e1. relies solely on pedal assist matching electric force to cadence and terrain thanks to torque sensing. So while you must keep pedaling, appropriately tuned power bands avoid abrupt surges. Refined delivery better mimics normal biking for riders wanting more exercise versus raw speed.
Both motors have thermal protections to prevent overheating plus cadence support for consistent acceleration. Disk brakes with 180mm rotors bring ample stopping power too.
For athletic riders or difficult vertical routes, the Discover 1‘s brawny motor simply conquers more thanks to brute power. It‘s a hillclimber‘s delight! But don‘t underestimate the CTY‘s pep either – its tuned power bands still tackle everyday grades with ease despite lower peak wattage.
Power & Performance: Advantage Discover 1
Displays, Controls & Connectivity
Central display consoles present key data like speed, battery level and assist modes to inform split-second riding decisions. Intuitive controls keep eyes ahead, not hunting for buttons. Connectivity expands functionality through fitness tracking and navigation.
Discover 1 riders view real time e-bike vitals on a wide rectangular color display mounted center handlebar – visible without shifting gaze from the road ahead. Its backlit 3.5 inch LCD remains readable even under harsh sunlight.
Five support levels adjust motor assistance via dedicated buttons. A battery percentage ticker calms range anxiety. Integrated headlight and taillight settings plus odometer, trip mileage and clock functions provide handy ride stats.
In contrast the CTY e1.1 utilizes a simpler monochrome display tucked alongside the left grip. It presents the expected speed, power level and battery info but in a harder-to-read scrolling format requiring longer glances. Four modes tune pedal assist strength instead of a handlebar throttle.
Both systems lack integrated navigation capabilities or phone linking functionality found on pricier e-bikes. Riders desiring GPS displays or fitness logging should budget for a phone mount and app suite.
For at-a-glance info to ride smarter, the Discover 1‘s centered color display wins for layout and content. But neither model fully bridges to popular fitness ecosystems – yet.
Displays, Controls & Connectivity – Advantage Discover 1
Components: Wheels, tires & gruppo
E-bike componentry must withstand substantial stress from the combined forces of rider pedaling plus electric motors. That‘s why quality wheels, tires and transmission groups matter for achieving reliability mile after mile.
The Velotric Discover 1 specified 26 x 2.5 inch puncture-resistant Kendra Kommando Sport tires promising traction across varied riding conditions – from slick city streets to degrading backroads. Paired 36 spoke double wall rims add lateral stiffness for confident cornering and obstacle clearance. Mechanical disc brakes use 180mm rotors to shed speed rapidly.
Co-Op Cycles outfits its CTY e1.1 model with 27.5 inch x 1.95 inch street tread tires optimized for fast rolling efficiency over smooth surfaces, not off-road ruggedness. Thinner rubber saves weight but gives up comfort. Rim braces add stiffness to the 36 hole double wall alloy wheelset required to handle battery heft. Slightly smaller 180mm mechanical (non-hydraulic) disc brakes take charge of deceleration duties.
Shared component brands across drivetrains illustrate how both companies source aggressively to hit affordable targets. No cut corners here.
The Discover 1 gets the edge running wider multi-surface tires and discs offering all-weather stopping confidence on the daily. But make no mistake – the CTY rolls fast and sufficiently durable too.
Components: Advantage Discover 1
Ownership costs: price, maintenance & warranties
While upfront sticker prices dominate e-bike buying decisions, longer-term care, repair and service expenses also impact overall value. What ownership costs can buyers expect further down the road?
| Model | MSRP | Warranty | Service | PartsAvailability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Velotric Discover 1 | $1599 | 1 yr elec./frame | Online docs | Good |
| Co-Op CTY e1.1 | $1699 | 1 yr elec./frame | REI stores | Excellent |
On initial purchase, both manufacturers hit comparable price points around $1600 delivered for functional electric bikes suitable for daily transportation. Considering included accessories like lights, fenders (on Discover 1) and high quality batteries, both deliver street value aligning nicely with MSRPs.
Long term costs come down to warranties protecting against defects, access to repairs and replacement part supply chains. Here REI‘s brick-and-mortar presence gives a slight advantage to Co-Op Cycle owners should issues require hands-on service. And dealer relationships foster robust components stocks too.
Meanwhile direct-to-consumer Velotric relies on remote troubleshooting and mobile service where available. But parts sharing across models simplifies obtaining replacements if needed later on.
If buying from Velotric directly, best utilize a credit card with strong consumer protections in case warrantied defects require protracted resolution.
Ownership Costs – Advantage CTY e1.1
Weight, Portability & Everyday Use
For riders needing to routinely lift e-bikes up stairways or stow them in tight spaces, overall weight becomes a critical purchasing factor. Lower heft also promotes agile handling.
The Velotric Discover 1 tips scales around 63-65 lbs depending on frame size – equaling small motorcycles. blame the ultra-robust aluminum frame, big battery and heavy duty kickstand necessary for supporting 400+ pound system capacity. Fenders and cargo rack raise weight further when equipped. Significant mass slows handling versus lighter e-bikes.
In contrast Co-Op engineered its CTY e1.1 model to a feathery 47 pounds by minimizing frame material, specifying smaller battery and eschewing accessories adding ounces. Nimble street tires quicken steering responses too. Removing the downtube mounted battery saves nearly 10 lbs for easier lifting and transport if needed.
So while the Discover 1 carries people and gear more like a pack mule, the CTY zips around with responsive athletic handling. Your needs dictate priorities here.
Upsides exist to both approaches. But compact living urbanites and students routinely hauling e-bikes across campuses or up multi-floor walkups will undoubtedly appreciate the CTY‘s sizable weight reduction – it‘s a difference your back will notice!
Weight, Portability & Use – Advantage CTY e1.1
Evaluating specs and components always provides helpful glimpses into e-bike personalities. But quantifying paper differences often still leaves buyers struggling to choose between attractive models like Velotric‘s Discover 1 and the Co-Op Cycles CTY e1.1.
So let’s dig deeper into real world usage to nail ideal rider pairings. Outlining strengths and limitations in the context of daily scenarios and terrain cuts through marketing hype to match expectations with performance.
For larger riders prioritizing comfort plus multi-surface urban versatility, the Discover 1 shines. A step-through frame joins ultra-wide tires in tackling uneven terrain and fluently absorbing vibrations to prevent rider fatigue. Thoughtful ergonomic finishing kit tailored for big and tall folks seals the deal.
Weekend warriors or athletic students wanting peppy road riding will cherish the CTY e1.1 and its lightweight nimble handling. Tight geometry blends precision and urgency darting through campus or parks. Easy portability bounds up stairways and tucks into modest spaces if your lifestyle demands adaptable storage.
Ultimately both models epitomize strong quality and real world value – buyers simply choose features aligning closest with riding goals and living environments.
Those chasing ultra reliability can pay higher premiums for components or service plans from traditional bike brands. Yet backed by Velotric’s social community and REI’s customer service infrastructure, the Discover 1 and CTY e1.1 minimize expenses without sacrificing everyday livability.
We sincerely hope closely inspecting the strengths of each electric bike against your needs helps determine the ideal fit. Now pedal forth and let electrified adventures unfold!
