E-Mountainbike Review: Centurion Backfire Ultimate E.29
Revolution! Back in the days, it was only freaks and athletes who had the guts to ride those sporting mountain bikes. Now, with the additional ‘E’ in front of the mountain bike, target group and application areas have changed enormously. Forests, meadows, and especially mountains are now easily accessible, enjoyable and can be experienced by everyone – thanks to E-MTBs. We were looking for a bike that is suitable to any kind of situation and ended up testing the new Centurion Backfire Ultimate E.29 in the most diverse situations. Did we find what we were looking for?
Sunday excursion to Solitude Palace near Stuttgart, Germany. This is a place surrounded by style & enjoyment.
The Backfire Ultimate E.29 is the high-end version of Centurion’s products – the company is based in the Stuttgart area. It presents a very functional look.
Regarding the equipment, the Shimano Deore XT components, FSA finishing kit (handlebar, stem, seat post) and the new Fox Float suspension fork with 100 mm travel really stand out.
The cockpit is equipped with a control center for the Bosch engine. Comfortable: A remote control is mounted directly to the handle grip, allowing to easily handle the power assist without having to let go of the handle bar.
Bosch mid-engine comes with a maximum of 50 powerful newton meters; the resulting maximum 250 % support on top of the riders pedaling power makes any climb a piece of cake.
(Depending on the mode) sweat- and worry-free: perfectly suited for the lawn in front of Solitude Palace. This is a place to enjoy the view with a smile.
The electric powertrain provides ease and riding enjoyment, you will never want to do without again. ‘Active wear’ is hardly needed – jeans, chucks, and a casual and breathable shirt are totally sufficient and provide for an aesthetic appearance if you decide to have a break on your tour to make a stop at a good old German beer garden or even want to visit the palace restaurant.
The large 29”-wheels convey lots of safety during the ride and rollover obstacles nicely – no matter if it’s a flattened curbside or roots and other hurdles of the forest. Furthermore, they run very smoothly, especially at high speeds.
The Centurion is not so well suited to narrow and winding sections; however finds flowing and ‘smooth’ trails its forte.
This E-MTB makes you autonomous and spontaneous, you get to choose: Forest or city? A comfortable excursions or a spontaneous ride? This is your choice to make. The Centurion Backfire Ultimate E.29 is in for everything!
Words & Photos: Robin Schmitt Rider: Patrick Sauter
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