Enamored
with the REI CTY e2.1 from the moment I laid eyes on its fiery lava frame emerging from the box in my garage, I knew this bike was something special. The vibrant red color and easy step-through frame practically shouted, “Hop on and ride me!” There were no complicated barriers to entry, no apps to download—just turn on the bike and go. (Pro tip: If assembly isn’t your thing, you can have it built at your local REI store and enjoy one year of free adjustments.)
And so, I set off on a thrilling journey through the city on the CTY e2.1. From bustling intersections to steep residential streets, I navigated my way to a scenic cycling path leading to a rocky beach on Lake Superior’s shoreline. The bike’s upright geometry offered a refreshing change from the typical hunched-over position of other e-bikes, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the sights and scents around me. The smell of lilacs in the air, the vibrant greens of spring—I noticed every detail as if seeing the world through new eyes.
As I reached the beach, my partner awaited me with a delightful picnic. We indulged in cheese, crackers, and rosé as we watched the sun dip below the city’s hills. I lingered until the mosquitoes started buzzing, eager for a sunset race back home against my boyfriend in his car. Maybe it was the rosé, or the magic of a summer evening, but the 22-mile round trip on the CTY e2.1 made that Friday night truly special.
About Town
The CTY e2.1 is the upgrade to the entry-level
CTY e1.1 ($1,299). Priced just under $2,000 and frequently on sale, this bike offers impressive battery capacity. After a challenging 1,000-foot climb back home, I still had 39% of battery power left, utilizing all four levels of assistance during a leisurely four-hour city tour.
As an urban commuter, the CTY e2.1 boasts a powerful 250-watt Shimano E5000 motor, a 36-volt, 418 watt-hour lithium-ion battery, and a top speed of 20 miles per hour. With a range of approximately 60 miles in Eco Mode, this bike is perfect for cruising around the city. The battery’s sleek design along the downtube allows for easy removal and independent charging—a convenient feature for busy riders.
Photograph: Stephanie Pearson
Equipped with a front fork for smooth rides and hydraulic disc brakes for precise stopping, this bike delivers performance and safety. The Schwalbe Big Ben tires offer excellent traction with a sturdy tread pattern, featuring reflective sidewalls for enhanced visibility at night.
Additional features include comfortable gel grips, a padded foam saddle, riser bars, a bright headlight, and a sturdy kickstand for convenient parking. While lacking fenders, the bike handles all types of city streets with ease—from smooth paths to potholed roads. It’s not meant for off-road adventures but excels in urban environments.
Affordable and Adequate
At this price point, the CTY e2.1 offers a great value with some areas for potential improvement. Weighing in at 54 pounds 8 ounces (size large), it’s not the lightest bike, which can make maneuvering and carrying it challenging. The 250-watt hub motor, while standard, provides only 60 newton meters of torque, limiting its climbing power compared to other e-bikes. This may impact performance on hilly terrains.
Photograph: Stephanie Pearson
While the CTY e2.1 operates seamlessly without an app, the small screen size and button placement can be challenging while riding. Despite these minor drawbacks, this bike offers a fantastic option for your daily commute or leisurely rides around town—especially if you’re drawn to the striking red color.