The Co-op Cycles team at REI knows how lucky they are to be based in the Pacific Northwest. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of many, Washington has seen an explosion of mountain bike trails in recent years, providing great testing grounds with a variety of terrain. This includes the newly opened Dockton Forest trail system on Vashon Island near Seattle. A quintessential local mountain bike park created by passionate volunteers, it offers a little something for everyone who rides there.
Cooperatively designed with REI members and staff, Co-op Cycles are accessible for everyone. Riders who love and champion local trails motivate the team to build bikes that are technical, fun and low maintenance, so more people can get out and enjoy the volunteers’ hard work.
It’s a tough job but someone has to do it. So, the REI Creative Content team headed out with some of the Co-op Cycles team to Vashon Island, accessible from Seattle only by ferry boat, on a beautiful day for a few flowy test rides on the new DRT 2.1 and DRT 1.3 hardtails.
Getting to Dockton means loading up and taking the ferry.
The 20-minute crossing is beautiful and relaxing.
It’s easy to find your flow on Dockton’s trails, where serenity and space abound.
The test riders had a blast on the Co-op Cycles DRT 2.1 and 1.3 hardtails. Both bikes feature an aluminum frame, 120mm of travel and hydraulic disc brakes. The team’s conclusion: The bikes were almost too much fun!
Knobby tires plus dirt equals happiness. The 2.1 features 27.5+ wheels with 2.8-inch tires, the biggest, widest wheels in the DRT line, for massive traction and easier climbing and cornering.
Just the right amount of trail features helps push riders to the next level.
The DRT series offers bikes that are accessible for everyone, and easily upgradable when you’re ready to take your riding to the next level. Both the 1.3 and 2.1 are dropper-post ready with internal cable routing.
It’s always a good day when you’re riding with friends.
Dockton currently offers 2.5 miles of singletrack, with plans to expand.
Bonus: Vashon Island has many delicious post-ride eats.
Awesome local bike trails can be found all over the country. Download the Mountain Bike Project app to discover your closest trail system.