Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 12.11.2025
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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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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

Editor CvD