Since the beginning of e-bike reviews in 2023, numerous models have passed through testing, ranging from basic options like the Propella 7S to more advanced choices such as the Canyon Spectral. Not all e-bikes cater to every cyclist’s enthusiasm, but the Centauri II stands out as a personal favorite. The admiration extends to the Vvolt Centauri II, and a key point to clarify is that there are no financial ties between Vvolt and this review.

When it comes to urban cycling—commuting or brief jaunts along smooth roads—the Centauri II comes remarkably close to perfection. Its weight, power, comfort, and maneuverability create a harmonious balance for daily use, and its features exceeded expectations, particularly with its belt driven automatic transmission and mid-drive motor. In essence, the Centauri II elevates the standard for commuter bicycles.

The Vvolt Centauri II at a Glance

Advantages

• Smooth power delivery from the mid-drive motor.

• No maintenance required with the automatic belt drive.

• A multitude of thoughtful details contributing to a refined cycling experience.

Disadvantages

• Absence of a throttle.

• Range could be improved.

• Potential envy from friends.

Specifications

• Price: $2,999

• Speed: Class III, up to 28 mph.

• Range: 20 to 60 miles.

• Battery: 490 wh / 13.6 Ah capacity.

• Motor output: 120nm torque with a 350w nominal / 650w maximum power.

• Weight: 50 lbs (S/M).

• Frame: Step-through design.

• Suspension: Unicrown mono-shock fork with 30 mm of travel.

• Transmission: Automatic 3-speed rear hub with a 163% gear range.

• Sizes: Available in S/M, M/L, L/XL, accommodating heights from 4’9” to 6’4”.

• Safety: UL-2849 compliant with UL2271 approved battery.

• Color options: Available in “Forest Planet” (green) and “Galactic Storm” (white).

Stylish Aesthetics and Functional Design of the Centauri II

Credit: Stephen Johnson

The Centauri II boasts an elegant appearance, steering clear of unnecessary flamboyance. With its matte finish available in “Forest Planet” and “Galactic Storm,” this bike showcases refined details harmoniously integrated into its design. The cable management is particularly commendable, as most are hidden within the frame, complemented by reflective paint accents and an LED headlight cleverly embedded into the structure.

The bike’s frame geometrically positions riders in a less upright posture than typical e-bikes offer. Riders don’t feel hunched over like on a racing bike nor fully upright like a character from The Wizard of Oz. This positioning strikes a balance between comfort and control, meeting personal preferences remarkably well. With three available frame sizes, it accommodates riders ranging from 4’9” to 6’4”.

The Ride: An Enjoyable Experience

Credit: Stephen Johnson

With no preconceived thoughts about the Centauri II, the unboxing and assembly process was simple—just about 20 minutes—before hitting the terrain of North Hollywood. This bike truly focuses on delivering a hassle-free, smooth ride experience. The first moment of pedaling coupled with the assist mode demonstrated the quiet but effective motor. It effortlessly adjusted to pedaling speed, allowing seamlessly to attain and sustain speeds of around 20 mph. Being classified as a Class 3 e-bike means that with sufficient effort, speeds can reach 28 mph. Overall, the experience was exhilarating, feeling agile and swift without compromising control.

Highlights of the Centauri II

Several notable features enhance the riding experience on the Centauri II:

1. Front Suspension Fork: The bike includes a mono-shock above the front wheel, providing 30mm of travel. While not suited for heavy off-road use, it efficiently absorbs urban bumps, making it equally competent for light terrain like hard-packed fire roads.

2. Weight: At roughly 50 pounds, this e-bike is comparatively light and has a well-distributed weight, ensuring responsiveness and control during rides.

3. Comfortable Saddle: The seat strikes a balance with moderate padding, offering a pleasant riding experience without becoming cumbersome.

4. Built-In Bell: The analog “ding ding” bell enhances safety and convenience on the road.

Drive Train and Pedal Assist Mechanics

Credit: Stephen Johnson

While the front suspension and comfy saddle are appealing aspects, the pedal assist and drive train drew considerable interest. The Ananda mid-drive motor delivers a continuous output of 350w, offering seamless integration with the pedals, which facilitates a quick and natural acceleration devoid of a rough torque managed by similar bikes. The Centauri II offers five pedal assist levels, yet its unique “chill mode” restricts the assist to a maximum of 12 mph, allowing for safe climbs and controlled speeds on shared pathways. Although the concept may seem minor, it adds a special touch to the ride.

Employing a durable Gates CDX belt drive system eliminates the need for lubrication, is resistant to rust, and requires minimal maintenance, lasting significantly longer than chain drives. Additionally, the automatic transmission simplifies gear management, continuously shifting based on speed. This clever interaction between the pedal assist and transmission consistently provided adequate power, ensuring an enjoyable ride even on inclines. Testing on diverse terrains, including significant elevation climbs, further confirmed its prowess, with manageable performance even on steeper slopes.

Credit: Stephen Johnson-Strava

On the Subject of Throttle Functionality

The absence of a throttle on the Centauri II can be perceived as a drawback, particularly for those who prefer to relax and allow the motor to take charge. However, this feature is not a major concern for all riders. Instead of a throttle, the Centauri II incorporates a “boost” button, granting a temporary power surge to assist with climbing. Though I found it effective, it occasionally led to a momentary delay in power response which was noticeable during steeper assessments.

Battery Performance and Display Features

Credit: Stephen Johnson

The Centauri’s lightweight design comes with limitations concerning battery life. Offering a 490-watt hour battery, it delivers an estimated range of 20 to 60 miles. Personal experiences on varied terrains indicated the battery’s endurance aligns closely with specifications. During one rigorous ride featuring considerable elevation and loose terrains, a full charge sustained approximately 26 miles before nearing depletion. For those prioritizing extended range, it may fall short. However, charging is efficient, typically completing in 5-7 hours.

As for the display, it excels in simplicity, featuring an organized layout that remains visible even under bright sunlight. Each pedal assist level is identified by distinct colors, allowing for quick reference while riding. The interfaces comprise a straightforward on/off button for powering and a clear mechanism for controlling the pedal assist settings.