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Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Review

Affordable and adventurous Class 3 electric that can cheat traffic and charges trails, but is it still a bike?
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Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Review (An amazing off-road presence, the DRT looks ready to rip trails.)
An amazing off-road presence, the DRT looks ready to rip trails.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Price:  $2,595 List
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Manufacturer:   Ride1Up
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor  ⋅  Aug 19, 2024
80
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#5 of 8
  • Ride - 25% 8.0
  • Range - 25% 7.0
  • Power - 25% 8.0
  • interface - 15% 9.0
  • Assembly - 10% 9.0

Our Verdict

The newest Revv 1 wearing the DRT moniker takes Ride1Up's successful e-moped and gives it an off-road vibe. Packing a 1040Wh battery and 1000-watt hub motor capable of putting out 95Nm of torque, this bike has the same numbers as the Revv 1 FS with a bit more suspension. Massive off-road tires give the bike some comfort and off-road chops but take a significant toll on its range. The multi-class speed system allows you to tailor the bike's class and power to your liking. Significantly taller than the other two Revv1 models, the DRT has a 6-inch travel inverted dual crown fork and a coil-sprung rear end, providing 3 inches of travel. Dirt tires, spoked wheels, and some cool cosmetic touches give this bike an off-road vibe. The bike looks rugged and awesome, but its appearance raises expectations, and those off-road expectations should be tempered.
REASONS TO BUY
Sporty
Fast
Convenient
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Ineffecient pedaling
Under-powered

Compare to Similar Products

 
ride1up revv 1 drt
This Product
Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT
Awards  Editors' Choice Award
Best Moped Style Class 3 Electric Bike
 Editors' Choice Award
Best Class 3 Fat Tire Electric Bike
 
Price $2,595 List
$2,395 at Ride1up
$2,395 List
$2,195 at Ride1up
$1,895 List
$1,695 at Ride1up
$1,999 List
$1,599 at Aventon Bikes
$1,399 List
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Bottom Line Fun, moped-style Class 3 that excels on the trails but falters when the hills turn steepA comfortable, moped-style errand runner that won't limit you to a certain type of terrainFun, moped style Class 3 that excels in the city and holds its own off-roadWith a clean design, powerful motor, large battery, loads of features, and fat tires, this bike is ready for adventureA big, capable, fat-tire bike for those on a budget, this bike isn't quite as refined as others we've tested
Rating Categories Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Ride1Up Revv 1 FS Ride1Up Revv 1 Aventon Aventure.2... Lectric XPeak
Ride (25%)
8.0
9.0
8.0
8.0
6.0
Range (25%)
7.0
10.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
Power (25%)
8.0
10.0
10.0
9.0
9.0
interface (15%)
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
Assembly (10%)
9.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
7.0
Specs Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT Ride1Up Revv 1 FS Ride1Up Revv 1 Aventon Aventure.2... Lectric XPeak
Wheel Size 20-inch 20-inch 20-inch 26-inch 26-inch
Battery Size (Wh) 1,040 1,040 780 720 672
Sensor Cadence Cadence Cadence Torque Cadence
Motor Power 1000W 1000W 750W/1200+ peak 750W/1130 peak 750W/1310 peak
E-bike Class Class 2 (Can be configured Class 3) Class 2 (Can be configured Class 3) Class 2 (Can be configured Class 3) Class 3 (Can be configured Class 2) Class 2 (Can be configured Class 3)
PAS Settings 5 5 5 4 5
Top Speed Throttle 20mph 20mph 20mph 20 mph 20mph
Top Speed Pedal-Assist 28mph 28mph 28mph 28 mph 28mph
Measured Distance Range 25.85 miles 37.17 miles 30.8 miles 28.1 miles 24.6 miles
Claimed Range 30-60 miles 30-60 miles 30-60 miles up to 60 miles 45-55 miles
Frame Material Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum
Weight Limit 350 lbs 350 lbs 350 lbs 400 lbs 330 lbs
Measured Weight 94 lbs 8 oz 96 lbs 13 oz 84 lbs 75 lbs 9 oz 76 lbs

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Revv 1 on steroids, the DRT takes Ride1UP's capable little e-moped and turns it up a notch for dirt service. Equipped with an inverted, dual crown fork and a coil-sprung rear shock, the bike is more capable and taller than other Revv 1 models. The retro-looking alloy frame and gas-tank style battery are a familiar look, but new for this model are spoked wheels, off-road tires, a molle panel, and lightweight plastic fenders. So, is it as fun as it looks?

Performance Comparison


ride1up revv 1 drt - rugged and rad, the drt expands the scope of what a "bike" really is.
Rugged and rad, the DRT expands the scope of what a “bike” really is.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Ride


This bike gets attention wherever we ride it; the Revv 1 DRT looks custom-built for boomers to shake a fist at. Using the Multi-Class Speed system, the bike ships in Class 2 mode, which limits its assisted speed to 20mph. A few button pushes away is the Class 3 setting that gives the bike a pedal-assisted speed of 28mph but still limits throttle speed to 20mph. Registering the bike, signing a waiver, and pushing a few more buttons unlocks “Off-Road Mode,” and that's where this machine comes to life. Intended only for private property, this setting allows you to hit speeds into the forties under throttle power alone. It doesn't change the amount of pedal assist, but many users won't actually pedal this “bike” anyway. The additional suspension travel gives the DRT more comfort, more breakover clearance, and more confidence, especially off-road. We got one of the very first DRT bikes available, and its RST Sigma suspension fork was lackluster. The fork would top out its travel with a terrible mechanical sound. After a few weeks of emails and complaints, we were able to get the fork fixed/updated under warranty, and we've been told that newer models will not have the same issue. Should you have one of the bikes with an excessively loud fork, contact Ride1Up or RST for a fix.

ride1up revv 1 drt - the ion-filled gas tank sits front and center, it's a cool look but...
The ion-filled gas tank sits front and center, it's a cool look but not really conducive to pedaling.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

The single-speed drivetrain helps you skirt laws that would otherwise categorize this machine as an electric motorcycle and lets you pretend to pedal when you're spotted on the bike path. You can also use the pedals to trigger the cadence sensor and propel the bike, but your efforts aren't likely to add much propulsion. Nothing about the ride quality of this machine feels bicycle-like; you're straddling the battery of a 95-pound mini-bike while feathering the throttle and staring at a virtual instrument cluster.


Like the other Revv 1s we've reviewed, it's quite comfortable due to a nice selection of components. Five-inch rise handlebars and a short stem give the bike an upright feel but enough forward bias to give it snappy handling. The non-adjustable cafe-style saddle has less padding than the other Revv1's and a more distinct forward tilt; we found it comfortable to sit on but less than effective for pedaling. Some riders preferred to sit further back on the saddle, and it gave the bike an easy-rider feel, but it loses its steering accuracy if you move too far back. Quad-piston calipers and 203mm rotors provide powerful stopping force, even from unlocked “off-road” speeds.

A bit less padding than other Revv 1 models but comfortable for...
A bit less padding than other Revv 1 models but comfortable for throttling around town or trails.
The RST Sigma fork seems like a good fit for this bike but the noise...
The RST Sigma fork seems like a good fit for this bike but the noise from within feels unsettling.
Huge rotors give us the stopping power we need on a bike like this...
Huge rotors give us the stopping power we need on a bike like this but the chosen disc brake adapter puts the caliper (and its hose) in a less than ideal position.
Some of the parts unique to the DRT model.

This bike feels tall when you stand over it and heavy when you pull it off of the kickstand. The front of the saddle sits 33.5" from the ground, and while the bike compresses into its shock travel when you sit on it, it doesn't generate much more space. The off-road tires have large lugs and knobs, but tread doesn't always equal traction. The 4" Innova tires struggled to maintain cornering grip on our test trail, a place where the Revv 1 FS with CST e-moped tires oddly excelled.

ride1up revv 1 drt - custom tires from innova give the bike a bit more grip in loose...
Custom tires from Innova give the bike a bit more grip in loose conditions and an off-road-ready appearance.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Equipped with an LED headlight in a cool retro design and a tail light with a functioning brake light, night riding is a joy. The headlight is mounted high on the fork, turns with the front end, and, despite not being adjustable, provides wide and bright illumination. Plastic fenders contribute to the bike's cool retro appearance but do little to keep mud and debris from ending up on the rider.

Tail light with integrated brake lights, there are turn signals in...
Tail light with integrated brake lights, there are turn signals in this unit but no turn signal controls on the bike itself.
The Headlight has low and high beam settings, and the tail light features an integrated brake light.

Range


This is the third Revv1 we've tested, and since the other two posted such impressive range figures, we had high (mileage) expectations. With the 1040Wh battery at full charge and the bike in non-boost off-road mode, we set off on our throttle-only adventure on the same roads we use for all of our e-bike range testing. In this standardized test, the DRT registered a completely depleted battery after only 25.85 miles, with less than 1500 feet of climbing. This figure is significantly less than the FS version of the bike, and while low for a bike with this size of battery, it's a fair distance given its off-road spec.


Ride1Up claims a range of 30-60 miles, but they use the same figure for all of the Revv1 models, so they may be shooting from the hip. The biggest range-effecting difference between the DRT and FS models is the tires. The smooth CST e-moped tires found on the FS model inflate to 30 psi, while the custom Innova tires on the DRT inflate to 20 psi. We can't imagine that the suspension factors into the range equation, especially since we weren't pedaling and the weight between these two bikes is within a few percent, with the FS actually being slightly heavier than the DRT. Aerodynamics isn't likely a significant factor either, given the slow nature of this test.

ride1up revv 1 drt - the dnm coil shock provides 76mm of travel and features adjustable...
The DNM Coil shock provides 76mm of travel and features adjustable rebound and dampening.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Power


The DRT arrives as a Class-2 model, which limits its speed to 20mph. There is plenty of torque for cruising around town or riding low-elevation change trails. When we pointed the DRT uphill on a common mountain bike trail, it bogged down with voltage sag to a walking speed after less than 1 mile. Switching to off-road mode and even activating the Boost feature did little to increase its stamina. If we turned the bike off and let it rest/cool for a few minutes, we could resume normal power, but it would quickly become limited again and slow to a walking pace. Given the appearance of this bike, having the performance slow to that of a Barbie Jeep was frankly embarrassing. As the bike started to slow down, we wanted to help and assist in the hill climbing effort, but with cranks like t-rex arms and no gears, it was difficult to propel in any meaningful way.


Switching the bike into its Class 3 setting doesn't increase its power but does increase its top pedal-assisted speed. In Class 3, you can pedal up to 28mph, but the throttle power still cuts off at 20mph. This pedaling motion does more to signal the cadence sensor and add power than actually help move the bike. Switching into off-road mode allows you to get the bike's full, unrestricted power with the throttle. If that isn't fast enough for you, there is a “BOOST” feature that is accessed by holding down the - button for two seconds. This switches the controller's amperage from 28 amps to 35 amps, giving the bike more pep and even higher top speed. Boost mode is only available in off-road mode on the FS and DRT models, and it takes a higher toll on the battery.

The 1000W Bafang hub motor doesn't feel quite as potent as the 1000W...
The 1000W Bafang hub motor doesn't feel quite as potent as the 1000W Bafang wheel being used on the FS model.
The frame has mounts for passenger pegs but there isn't much room...
The frame has mounts for passenger pegs but there isn't much room for a second person on the saddle.
203mm rotors give the bike ample stopping power and the removable...
203mm rotors give the bike ample stopping power and the removable kickstand is easy to use and stays out of the way.
Everything going on in the rear end of the DRT.

Interface


The Revv 1's display is thoughtfully designed for easy readability and provides essential information for riders. Its two-tone color scheme and central location on the handlebar make it effortless for riders to glance at without diverting their attention from the trail. The display prominently shows the current speed and represents the state of charge with a decreasing battery icon in 20% increments. Additionally, it showcases PAS level, average speed, and trip distance around the perimeter.


The throttle is intuitively controlled by a half-length twist grip on the right side, while the handlebar controls, including the power button, headlight switch, and horn, are conveniently placed within reach of the rider's thumbs. Switching between PAS settings is straightforward with the +/- button, and the main power button is located on the side of the battery. The opposite side of the battery features a clear LED display indicating the current charge level. Although the M button turns on a Bluetooth icon, there is currently no connectivity available. Apart from a navigation map, it's hard to envision a phone screen adding much value to the already comprehensive display. If you want to add a phone to the handlebar, there is a USB outlet on the back of the thumb controller that will allow you to keep your phone charged while you ride.

ride1up revv 1 drt - the display on this bike is one of our favorites, it large, clear...
The display on this bike is one of our favorites, it large, clear and easy to read with its centralized position and high contrast graphics.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Assembly


The DRT arrives mostly assembled in a top-off crate-style bike box. The fork is connected to a welded metal support that protects it and stabilizes the bike for assembly. The bike comes with a set of tools, an owner's manual, and, like all other Ride1Up bikes, a beanie. The final assembly involves installing the handlebar, fenders, and front wheel. Installing the front wheel should be a two-person job as each fork leg can twist independently, and lifting the bike's front end isn't exactly easy.


Visual learners might enjoy the assembly video that Ride1Up produced; others can rely on the included instruction manual. It's important to check the tire pressure, do a bolt check, and charge the battery before your initial ride. Additionally, it doesn't hurt to familiarize yourself with the controls before riding, and if you're new to fast e-bikes, give it a few rides before unlocking off-road mode.

Assembling the Revv 1 DRT took approximately 40 minutes.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Should You Buy the Ride1Up Revv 1 DRT?


This depends on your expectations. We admittedly had higher expectations of this bike based on its appearance and specs. If you plan to conquer any serious hill climbing, this might not be the machine to do it on. If you're looking for a versatile e-bike that you can pedal and get some exercise on, it's still not the right bike for you. If ripping around town or on dirt trails without much elevation gain is in the cards, this bike is at least as fun as we've stated above. It's fun, relatively capable, and very well-priced for what you get.

What Other E-Bikes Should You Consider?


If this type of e-bike is of interest to you, the full-suspension Revv 1 FS has been our favorite. It has full fenders, a lower standover height, and ample power. You might also check out the Super73 S2, it doesn't have the speed or power of the Revv1 but it's exceptionally stylish. Super73 has done a great job with multiple models and configurations, but they don't carry the same value proposition that we find with the Revv 1 models.

ride1up revv 1 drt - the drt takes the revv 1 to a whole new level (and height).
The DRT takes the Revv 1 to a whole new level (and height).
Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Joshua Hutchens
 

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