Vvolt reveals the new Centauri II e-bike with automatic 3-speed transmission

Vvolt has just unveiled its latest commuter e-bike, the Centauri II, and it’s bringing some intriguing advancements to the table for urban cyclists. Unlike a lot of e-bikes that promise power but leave you juggling gears or dealing with high maintenance, the Centauri II seems to focus on simplicity, comfort, and a surprisingly low-key approach to high performance.

What’s the deal with the Centauri II?

On first glance, what sets the Centauri II apart is its mechanical automatic 3-speed hub transmission. It shifts automatically based on your speed, so you don’t have to fiddle with gears while dodging traffic or cruising through city streets. And here’s a plus: it doesn’t require any batteries and should be good for thousands of hours without needing service. For city commuters, that translates to fewer headaches and more time on the road, not in the shop.

Vvolt Centauri II e-bike

And then there’s the Gates Carbon Drive—a belt drive system that’s known for being quiet, clean, and low-maintenance. Unlike a traditional bike chain, you won’t have to worry about grease or the mess of adjusting a chain. This is the kind of convenience a lot of city riders look for but don’t always find in an e-bike.

Power that lets you choose how you ride

The Ananda powertrain offers five levels of power assist, reaching speeds of up to 28 mph. That’s fast enough to keep up with traffic in most city environments but not so fast that you feel like you’re on a race track. Vvolt has also included a feature called Chill Mode, which caps the speed at 12 mph and gives you just enough power to make climbing hills or riding through parks less of a slog. It’s a smart nod to versatility—whether you’re navigating a busy downtown or taking a more leisurely ride on a multi-use path, the Centauri II adapts.

Vvolt Centauri II e-bike

Built to last, easy to live with

Weighing in at 50 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to handle without feeling like you’re wrestling with a beast, but it still packs enough durability to withstand the rigors of daily commuting. And when it comes to stopping power, the Shimano hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors have you covered, offering crisp, effective braking even in tricky weather.

One of the thoughtful touches Vvolt has added to the Centauri II is its integrated lighting system, which includes a uniquely shaped headlight and a rear light tucked under the saddle. The bike’s reflective graphics make sure you’re visible from all angles, whether you’re navigating early morning or evening commutes.

Style and sizing

Aesthetically, the Centauri II comes in two colorways—Forest Planet (a deep green) and Galactic Storm (a sleek silver-blue). It’s available in three sizes, accommodating riders from 4’9” to 6’4”, so there’s a good chance you’ll find a fit that works for you.

Vvolt Centauri II e-bike

A commuter’s e-bike without the hassle

At $2,999, the Centauri II sits at a reasonable price point for a quality e-bike with premium components, especially considering the automatic transmission and low-maintenance features. While it might not blow the doors off with cutting-edge flash, it offers exactly what a city commuter needs: reliable performance, low upkeep, and a ride that’s smooth and comfortable without feeling like you’re sacrificing speed or power.

With its blend of smart tech and everyday usability, the Centauri II looks like a solid contender for anyone looking to upgrade their urban commute without overcomplicating their ride.