Centurion No Pogo R2000The somewhat different E-Enduro in the BIKE test

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 12.11.2025

Aluminium chassis and 170 millimetres of suspension travel from a DVO chassis. Is the all-round classic No Pogo an off-road extremo in its latest version?
Photo: Max Fuchs

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The latest version of the Centurion No Pogo R2000 comes with an aluminium chassis, special suspension and plenty of suspension travel. The question is: Does this turn the Centurion classic with Bosch drive into an off-road extremo - or does it retain its all-round qualities? The Centurion No Pogo R2000 on test.

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The Centurion No Pogo is a true classic. At the end of the 90s, the ancestor with its squeaky yellow Y-frame was subscribed to test victories and contributed significantly to the success of full-suspension mountain bikes in Germany. Over time, the suspension travel became longer, the tyre size larger and the motor was added. The current version of the No Pogo therefore rolls into the test as a modern E-Enduro with 170 millimetres of suspension travel and a mullet wheel mix. With an aluminium frame and large battery, the weight is quite heavy - but this is normal for an E-Enduro.

Aluminium chassis and 170 millimetres of suspension travel from a DVO chassis. Is the all-round classic No Pogo an off-road extremo in its latest version?Photo: Max FuchsAluminium chassis and 170 millimetres of suspension travel from a DVO chassis. Is the all-round classic No Pogo an off-road extremo in its latest version?A practical feature is the tool bag on the down tube. This protects the spare tube and mini-tool from mud.Photo: Max FuchsA practical feature is the tool bag on the down tube. This protects the spare tube and mini-tool from mud.

The facts about the Centurion No Pogo R2000

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, 85 Nm max. torque
  • Battery: 800 Wh (removable)
  • Frame material: Aluminium
  • Suspension travel: 170/170 mm
  • Wheel size: 29/27.5 inch
  • Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
  • Price: 6199 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
  • Weight: 25.7 kg (test bike in size L, BIKE measurement)
  • Max. System weight: 150 kg
  • Warranty: 10 years
Everyday extra: Centurion has given the No Pogo integrated rear lights. Practical in road traffic.Photo: Max FuchsEveryday extra: Centurion has given the No Pogo integrated rear lights. Practical in road traffic.

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A front light from Lezyne is also on board.Photo: Max FuchsA front light from Lezyne is also on board.

Bosch Performance Line CX - the drive

An absolute classic is the Bosch Performance CX (tested here!). After the Software update to 100 Nm and 750 W the popular Swabian motor has now become even more powerful. If you want to test the limits of what is possible on difficult climbs, this motor is the perfect choice. In addition to the power boost, the software update also brings the new E-MTB+ mode, which shines with situational coasting and super control.

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Bosch Performance CX // 100 Nm max. torque // 750 W peak power // up to 400 % assistancePhoto: Max FuchsBosch Performance CX // 100 Nm max. torque // 750 W peak power // up to 400 % assistance

But it's not just uphill tricksters who get on well with the Bosch CX. It is also an ace on classic tours. Because in combination with the Powertube 800, the range is really good. In our standardised tests, this combination regularly shows the greatest range. The battery is classically removable in the No Pogo, so it can be quickly and easily folded forwards out of the down tube.

Under the cover is the large Powertube 800 from Bosch. It can be easily folded out with a key.Photo: Max FuchsUnder the cover is the large Powertube 800 from Bosch. It can be easily folded out with a key.To connect the optional range extender (250 Wh), the cover of the charging port can be pushed in securely.Photo: Max FuchsTo connect the optional range extender (250 Wh), the cover of the charging port can be pushed in securely.

The features of the Centurion No Pogo R2000

The suspension elements from DVO are otherwise rarely found on standard bikes. In the test, the fork and damper were thoroughly convincing.Photo: Max FuchsThe suspension elements from DVO are otherwise rarely found on standard bikes. In the test, the fork and damper were thoroughly convincing.The DVO damper has a second air chamber. The characteristic curve is influenced by the so-called bladder. More air means more resistance.Photo: Max FuchsThe DVO damper has a second air chamber. The characteristic curve is influenced by the so-called bladder. More air means more resistance.

The suspension elements from DVO are otherwise rarely found on standard bikes. In the test, the fork and damper were thoroughly convincing. The rest of the bike's equipment is more conventional. Deore four-piston stoppers grip well and feel almost like XT brakes. The Linkglide gear system with eleven instead of twelve gears has been optimised for smoother shifting under load and better durability. A good choice on an e-bike. Front and rear lights are fitted ex works, and even a stand would be compatible with a hidden mount.

The Shimano XT with Linkglide components only has 11 gears - but is said to be significantly more robust and durable.Photo: Max FuchsThe Shimano XT with Linkglide components only has 11 gears - but is said to be significantly more robust and durable.
  • Fork / shock: DVO Onyx 38 D2 / Topaz Pro
  • Gear system: Shimano XT Linkglide (11-speed)
  • Brakes: Shimano Deore / 203 mm
  • Wheels: Procraft Altitude rims with Shimano hubs
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai MaxxGrip / DHR II, Exo+, 29/27.5 x 2.5/2.4
  • Telescopic seat post: Procraft / 200 mm
  • Special features: Light ex works; tool bag
The stroke of the telescopic support can be adjusted without tools using a plastic insert. A range of 170 to 200 millimetres is possible.Photo: Max FuchsThe stroke of the telescopic support can be adjusted without tools using a plastic insert. A range of 170 to 200 millimetres is possible.

Centurion No Pogo R2000: The geometry

The compact rear end of the No Pogo is striking. The chainstays measure 439 mm, which is very short, especially for an e-MTB with a powerful motor. This suggests agility, but also a little less confidence on steep climbs. The steep seat angle is also quite progressive. This promises a central riding position and should provide the necessary pressure on the front wheel to counteract the climbing tendencies of the front wheel due to the short rear end. The wheelbase is not excessively long, which should give the bike manoeuvrable handling. A good counterbalance to the bike's high weight.

We determined the geometry data of the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in the BIKE test lab on the test bike with frame size L.Photo: BIKE MagazinWe determined the geometry data of the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in the BIKE test lab on the test bike with frame size L.

On the trail: DVO with added comfort?

If you want to judge the character of the bike by its everyday features, you'd be wrong. The powerful Bosch motor sets the tone on the climbs and scores with new features such as the power update and the super dynamic E-MTB+ mode. Despite the balanced riding position, the short rear end makes the front end light from time to time on very steep sections, which makes it difficult to control in key sections. This is where the bike needs to be actively steered. The suspension is sensitive and gives the Centurion good traction.

In trickier uphill sections, the No Pogo needs conscious weight distribution to stay on track.Photo: Max FuchsIn trickier uphill sections, the No Pogo needs conscious weight distribution to stay on track.

Handy and powerful

Downhill, the No Pogo is pleasantly manoeuvrable and agile for a bike in this weight and travel class. This is also due to the successful geometry with a short rear end and compact wheelbase. This allows the bike to be thrown willingly from bend to bend. You wouldn't expect that at just under 26 kilos. The bike's handling qualities are also impressive: the strong chassis provides a lot of security even in demanding situations. The sensitive DVO fork filters out bumps remarkably well.

A good mix of agility and smoothness: the Centurion No Pogo is a balanced source of fun on the descents.Photo: Max FuchsA good mix of agility and smoothness: the Centurion No Pogo is a balanced source of fun on the descents.

Centurion provides an air pressure table for the fork and shock as a setup aid. We rode the bike firmer than suggested, but the suspension was still on the plush side. Well-designed tyres and brakes also contribute to riding safety. The high weight is noticeable when you want to pull the bike into the air without jumping off.

Points of criticism: Downhill, the No Pogo would benefit from slightly higher handlebars and a more stable rear tyre, the fork smacks audibly and, due to the geometry, other candidates are a little smoother on long straights. However, if you are looking for an enduring all-rounder, the Centurion is the perfect choice.

BIKE review of the Centurion No Pogo R2000

Seating position, reach and serviceability of the Centurion No Pogo R2000. Reach height determined during test rides on tarmac with a gradient of 12.2 per cent. Highest support level, 150 watts of rider power, rider weight 90 kg.Photo: BIKE MagazinSeating position, reach and serviceability of the Centurion No Pogo R2000. Reach height determined during test rides on tarmac with a gradient of 12.2 per cent. Highest support level, 150 watts of rider power, rider weight 90 kg.

Strengths

  • High suspension comfort
  • Balanced handling
  • Long-range Bosch system

Weaknesses

  • High weight
  • slight rattling
The character of the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in relation to the E-Enduro category.Photo: BIKE MagazinThe character of the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in relation to the E-Enduro category.The BIKE grade for the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in the E-Enduro category.Photo: BIKE MagazinThe BIKE grade for the Centurion No Pogo R2000 in the E-Enduro category.

The BIKE conclusion

The Centurion is easy to ride, the suspension is well designed and extremely comfortable. Thanks to the geometry, which is not too extreme, the bike remains manoeuvrable and thus offers a wide range of use, even beyond pure downhill missions. But the No Pogo can also deliver in serious terrain. - Adrian Kaether, BIKE Editor
Adrian Kaether is a BIKE editor and e-bike specialist.Photo: Georg GrieshaberAdrian Kaether is a BIKE editor and e-bike specialist.

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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