135 millimetres of travel at the rear, 29 inches, space for a bottle cage: the raw data of Centurion's new E-MTB suggests a fast tourer. If you take a closer look, you will discover massive 2.5 mm tyres, a shock with a reservoir and pithy four-piston brakes. Where does the newcomer fit in? The sporty riding position is noticeable when you start rolling. This is complemented by very grippy 29er tyres, medium-length chainstays and a drive-neutral rear triangle. This makes the Numinis an excellent climber that easily tackles even the steepest climbs. As the trail descends, the bike looks just as mature. The large wheels bring a lot of composure and confidence to the ride, and the bike is not satisfied with forest tracks.
The Centurion also cuts a fine figure on rough terrain, where the very high-quality and extremely sensitive Fox Factory suspension shines. However, sporty riders will want a little more progression in the rear suspension on really wild trail rides. Tight corners require a little more effort with the 29er, but the light bike is not really sluggish. Speaking of light: Centurion achieves the low weight without a carbon frame, but with a classic construction with an external battery. Centurion makes no mistakes with the equipment either: 165 mm cranks provide plenty of ground clearance, four-piston brakes provide the necessary deceleration and Shimano's electronic Di2 provides an extra dose of glamour. The Maxxis tyres come with the new EXO+ casing for better puncture protection.
Conclusion on the Centurion Numinis Trail E
Top all-rounder for extended tours, but also with plenty of reserves for demanding descents. The massive grip of the heavily profiled 29er tyres is impressive on technical climbs. Downhill, the tyres are smoother and more secure than playful.
PLUS High-quality chassis, sophisticated geometry
MINUS A little less progression in the rear triangle
Reach height 1309 hm
Time/500 hm4
25:04 min
Price 6199 Euro
DRIVE
Engine Shimano Steps E8000
Maximum torque¹ 70 Nm
Battery¹ / weight² / price Replacement battery Steps 8010, 500 Wh, 2614 g / 699 Euro
Circuit Shimano XT Di2 (11-speed)
Translation (v. / h.) 34; 11-46
Display / Size Shimano M8000 / 21 x 38 mm
EQUIPMENT
Fork / damper Fox 36 Factory Grip2 / Fox DPX2 Factory
Spring travel¹ (f. / h.) 140 mm / 135 mm
Telescopic support Procraft, 150 mm
Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear) Shimano XT four-piston / 200 mm / 180 mm
Impellers DT Swiss H 1900 Spline 30 Hybrid
Wheel size 29''
Tyres Maxxis DHF / DHR II 3C EXO+, 29 x 2.5 inch
MEASURED VALUES²
Sizes / frame material S / M / L / XL / Aluminium
Weight 21.92 kg
Centre of gravity height 520 mm
Handlebar width 780 mm
Crank length / Q-factor 165 mm / 182 mm
Reach / Stack 463 mm / 658 mm
EMTB JUDGEMENT SUPER³
¹ Manufacturer's specification
² Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals.
The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The assessment is always to be understood in relation to the respective category (hardtail, tour/trail, enduro).
4 Determined on the roller test bench in the EMTB test laboratory at the highest support level, constant incline without flat sections, 130 watts pedalling power of the rider. The time / 500 altitude metres refers to the first 500 altitude metres.
The EMTB judgement is independent of price.
EMTB judgements: super (from 350 points), very good (from 315 points), good (from 280 points), satisfactory (from 245 points), with weaknesses (from 210 points), below insufficient. 4Average value from the range height test over the entire distance.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
