Country roads, take me home – The CENTURION Country R2600i off-road step-through ebike in review

The CENTURION E-Fire Country F3500 took the top spot in our 2020 off-road step-through group test. For 2021, CENTURION have fundamentally revised it, giving it a new Bosch motor, new frame and a bigger battery. Can it build on the success of its predecessor? We tested the CENTURION Country R2600i to find out what the € 4,199 ebike is capable of.

Step-throughs do away with the top tube to allow for easy mounting and dismounting while also increasing rider confidence and freedom of movement. Paired with suitable components and a coherent overall concept, they’re not only suitable for a wide range of riders but also versatile, serving well for everything from your daily commute to light off-roading. If you still think that step-throughs aren’t any fun, we recommend you visit an eMTB skills clinic and study our big 2020 off-road step-through group test as a matter of urgency. In it, we let the best ebikes of their kind go head to head, whereby one bike stood out above the rest: the 2020 CENTURION E-Fire Country F3500. With its well-rounded performance, it was able to win the group test and convince our testers in terms of practicality and off-road capability. Now, CENTURION have introduced its successor, featuring a Bosch Performance Line CX motor, 625 Wh battery and practical accessories, aiming to build on the previous model’s success. We wanted to find out more and put the € 4,199 CENTURION Country R2600i through its paces as an everyday commuter and off-road.

The CENTURION Country R2600i in detail

Like its predecessor, the silhouette of the CENTURION Country R2600i is that of a classic step-through. While the German design team didn’t go wild with the frame’s lines, numerous innovations come to light upon closer inspection. The Shimano STEPS E8000 motor of the CENTURION E-Fire Country F3500 has been replaced by the latest generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor for the R2600i, the motor of choice for many hard-hitting eMTBs. Anyone familiar with CENTURION’s nomenclature will have noticed this by looking at the ebikes model name, with “R” designating their Bosch-driven ebikes and “F” Shimano ones. The battery capacity of the latest iteration has increased to a total of 625 Wh. Moreover, the battery is completely integrated into the distinctive, angular down tube (as indicated by the “i” in the model name) and removable from below. Doing so presents considerable challenges in frame construction regarding torsional stiffness and stability compared to ebikes with an external battery. Compared to its predecessor, the frame of the Country R2600i has received an additional brace above the motor, strengthening and stiffening it and lending the ebike a solid impression. The motor cover features an integrated cooling grille for improved temperature management. It also accentuates the motor for a more aggressive look, tying in well with CENTURION’s eMTB portfolio.

To control the motor, you can use the handlebar remote or the Bosch Kiox display on the stem. We’re pleased to see that the motor’s speed sensor and corresponding magnet have been securely integrated into the dropout and brake rotor – thumbs up! To do so, CENTURION have forced the union of sensor technology and disc rotors from arch-rivals Bosch and Shimano, which works flawlessly and makes unreliable spoke magnets obsolete. The charging socket in the down tube is easily accessible and protected from the elements by CENTURION’s own magnetic cover – far better than the standard Bosch one both in terms of ergonomics and workmanship. In typical CENTURION style, the charging socket and keyhole for the battery and the frame lock are colourfully accentuated and provided with easy-to-understand pictograms for those that have never operated an ebike. Thanks to the integrated battery, there is space for two bottle cages on the top of the down tube. Pro tip: only use the upper bottle cage to keep the frame’s low step-through unrestricted. The cables are routed internally, entering the head tube at the cockpit via a special Acros headset.

The components of the CENTURION Country R2600i in detail

The CENTURION Country R2600i is specced with all the components and accessories needed to tackle everyday life. As part of the off-road spec, you get 2.25 inch wide, knobbly Schwalbe Smart Sam tires. Instead of traditional 700c trekking wheels, CENTURION rely on 27.5″ hoops from the MTB sector, giving the off-road fans amongst us a wide range of MTB tires to choose from when due a replacement. Together with the 80 mm travel SR Suntour Mobie34 air fork, which can be adjusted to the rider’s weight, you’re well-equipped for excursions beyond paved terrain. We were impressed with the versatility of the Procraft Drop-Suspension dropper post. With 120 mm travel, it offers sufficient freedom of movement for an active riding style off-road. It’s just as helpful in daily life, allowing you to climb on and off the bike more easily. It also offers 50 mm suspension when fully extended, making the off-road step-through ebike more comfortable than you would expect from a hardtail. The seat post’s integrated suspension can be adjusted to a rider weight ranging from 50 kg to 125 kg. Like a full-suspension bike, this requires additional setup time to find the correct setting. That’s worth doing as once set up, the seat post absorbs impacts effectively without pogoing up and down. The Shimano two-piston brakes are paired with a 203 mm rotor up front and a 180 mm rotor at the rear, which, like the previous model, we find underpowered. Though you’re unlikely to blast down demanding trails and steep chutes aboard an off-road step-through ebike, you still want reliable, quick and safe stopping in city traffic and on tours. Considering the rear rack’s carrying capacity and the maximum payload of 123 kg, we would have preferred to see four-piston brakes on the Country R2600i. It’s a shame that the updated model hasn’t addressed this issue. The 1×11 drivetrain consists of proven mountain bike components, including an XT derailleur and SLX cassette, offering crisp and reliable shifting.

Regarding practical accessories, CENTURION have ensured that they don’t interfere with the bike’s off-road capabilities. The aluminium mudguards are securely mounted and don’t rattle on bumpy terrain. They’ll only draw attention to themselves on harder hits, like riding up and down curbs. While the side stand on the E-Fire Country F3500 occasionally unfolded itself while riding, improvements have been made on the Country R2600i. The new side stand remains securely in place until it’s needed. The ABUS Shield Plus 5750L frame lock comes as standard and works with the same key as that needed for the battery. The luggage rack is certified for a maximum carrying capacity of 20 kg and if that isn’t enough, you can purchase two additional braces from CENTURION for € 18, increasing the rack’s permissible weight to 30 kg. However, caution is advised with heavier loads – 30 kg on the rear rack can upset even the most stable step-throughs. We’ll delve deeper into the handling of CENTURION Country R2600i further down.

The chainstay protector effectively prevents paint damage and keeps the chain quiet when heading off-road. Thanks to the Curana Fly chain guard, you don’t have to worry about your trouser leg touching the chain.

Unfortunately, not all components are as versatile as the ebike itself. The Lezyne Mini STVZO front light offers a clearly defined beam pattern for use in traffic. With the TrelockLS 611 Duo Flat taillight integrated into the rear rack, the bike is fully roadworthy, allowing you to get home safely when caught in the dark. However, the headlight doesn’t have a high beam function and its lumen output can’t keep up with the likes of the Supernova M99. If you’re going to spend a lot of time out and about at night, you’ll want to consider upgrading.

Due to all the accessories, the CENTURION Country R2600i weighs in at 26.60 kg. With a maximum permissible weight limit of 150 kg, that leaves just under 123 kg for the rider and luggage. In addition to the flagship Country R2600i model, CENTURION also offer a slightly stripped-down version, the R960i. Coming in at € 3,799, you get a lower-end drivetrain, fork and brakes, and a Bosch Intuvia instead of a Kiox display. For € 3,099, the Country F760 still comes with a Shimano motor and external battery.

The geometry of the Country R2600i in detail

The two Bosch driven models are available in four sizes from XS to L and should fit riders measuring from 1.50 m to 1.89 m tall. The adjustable stem allows you to fine-tune the riding position and quickly adapt it to personal preferences. The Country F760 with the Shimano motor and external battery is available in sizes S to L only.

Size	XS	S	M	L
Seat tube	380 mm	430 mm	480 mm	530 mm
Top tube	574 mm	599 mm	624 mm	649 mm
Head tube	160 mm	180 mm	200 mm	220 mm
Head angle	68.5°	68.5°	68.5°	68.5°
Seat angle	73.5°	73.5°	73.5°	73.5°
Chainstays	445 mm	445 mm	445 mm	445 mm
BB Drop	50 mm	50 mm	50 mm	50 mm
Wheelbase	1,105 mm	1,132 mm	1,159 mm	1,186 mm
Reach	387 mm	407 mm	426 mm	446 mm
Stack	630 mm	649 mm	667 mm	686 mm

Out and about with the CENTURION Country R2600i – The handling in detail

The CENTURION Country R2600i has big shoes to fill. Thanks to its excellent handling, the predecessor claimed the well-deserved top spot in our big off-road step-through group test. The latest model is yet to earn itself the same honours. Climbing aboard the Country R2600i with its low and generously wide step-through is effortless. With the dropper post lowered, you don’t even have to get off the saddle to put your foot down when stopping at traffic lights and intersections – depending on how tall you are, of course. Thanks to the tall front end, the riding position is pleasantly upright and perfectly suited for long distances. That’s helped by the adjustable stem which makes easy work of fine-tuning the fit. The weight on the rider’s hands is kept to a minimum yet the additional weight on the saddle never gets uncomfortable. This is thanks to the seat post’s integrated suspension, absorbing small impacts and providing the bike with a high level of comfort even on bumpy terrain. The handling is just as good-natured, offering easy steering and responds to rider input with precision. CENTURION have managed to strike an excellent balance between agility and stability.

At slow speeds, such as in dense city traffic, the Country R2600i can easily weave around pedestrians and through narrow alleys or avoid obstacles on uneven forest floors. When you put the powerful Bosch motor into Turbo mode or reach speeds above the 25 km/h limit on descents, the ebike’s handling stays stable with no sign of speed wobble. Thanks to its stiff frame, direct handling and reliable components, the Country R2600i off-road step-through ebike is a lot of fun to ride. The SR Suntour Mobie34 fork generates a lot of grip on asphalt, gravel and woodland paths, allowing the off-road step-through to remain composed as it rolls through potholes, over roots and small obstacles. The CENTURION copes effortlessly with cobblestones, ruts and railroad tracks and never falters. Thanks to the powerful motor, you’ll be able to conquer moderate climbs without having to get out of the comfortable saddle. Unfortunately, the two-piston brakes and the undersized brake rotor on the rear dampen the fun on long or steep descents. Particularly heavy riders and those who ride with luggage would benefit from more reliable four-piston stoppers and a bigger rotor at the rear.

The CENTURION Country R2600i off-road step-through is a lot of fun to ride.

Thanks to its intuitive and fun handling, the Country R2600i is equally suitable for beginners, those getting back into the sport and advanced riders looking for an everyday commuter or a suitable companion for light touring. However, we recommend you look elsewhere if you’re planning to haul heavy loads. The handling becomes significantly less stable with heavy cargo and is unsuitable for novices. With a 17 kg load – a six-pack of mineral water, a bottle of milk, a loaf of bread and some fruit – you’ll remain below the rack’s 20 kg limit, allowing you to do without the additional braces required to carry heavier loads. However, the weight on the rear has the potential to destabilise the ebike. Depending on the terrain, this can result in speed wobble and twitchy handling above 20 km/h. As such, we can’t recommend upgrading the luggage rack to increase its carrying capacity to 30 kg. In Turbo mode, the powerful thrust of the Bosch motor may also overwhelm less experienced riders in certain situations. We recommend familiarising yourself with the off-road step-through in Tour mode or the progressive eMTB mode before trying it out. In eMTB mode, the motor dynamically adapts its assistance to your input and only unleashes its full power when appropriate.

Conclusion

With the Country R2600i, CENTURION have once again succeeded in bringing an excellent off-road step-through to market, featuring a high-quality finish and well-specced components – apart from the underpowered brakes. By switching to the Bosch motor and integrated battery, the ebike’s looks are now on par with its handling. It covers everything from commuting and running errands to trekking, tours and light off-road activities, making it suitable for a wide range of riders from beginners to pros.

For further information head to centurion.de

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Words: Rudolf Fischer Photos: Peter Walker