The electric bike market continues to witness significant growth, and with the upcoming year, there’s one less reason to stay on the couch, thanks to the incredible features offered by Buzz electric bikes. In this sponsored segment, we’re turning our attention to the Buzz Centris, a compact folding electric bike that seamlessly blends into the territory of cargo bikes. Let’s dive into the details and explore the value it brings to the table.
While Buzz may not be at the forefront of the electric bike industry, it has established its presence over the years. My first encounter with their bikes dates back to 2019, and since then, Buzz has consistently added more value to their offerings. As part of a family of bicycle companies including Hey Bicycles, Niner Bikes, Batch Bicycles, and Royce Union, Buzz draws on a wealth of expertise from its network.
The particular model under scrutiny, the Buzz Centris, is competitively priced with an MSRP of $1,199. At the time of creating this video, it’s on sale, and there are indications of newsletter and promo codes circulating, potentially adding further value to this already enticing proposition. Now, let’s delve into the specifics of the bike itself.
The Buzz Centris, priced affordably, stands as a testament to Buzz’s commitment to providing excellent value to riders. Its compact folding design, coupled with features that place it in the realm of cargo bikes, makes it a versatile and practical choice for urban commuters and recreational riders alike. Stay tuned as we explore the various facets of the Centris and uncover what makes it a standout option in the electric bike market.
| Frame | Aluminum alloy |
| Motor | 500-watt rear hub motor |
| Speed | up to 20 miles per hour |
| Electric Assist | 5 levels of electric assist |
| Speeds | 6 speeds |
| Wheels + Tires | 20” x 4” wheels |
| Suspension | Front fork suspension |
| Brakes | Front and rear mechanical disc brakes |
| Display | LCD Screen displays speed, assistance level, mileage, and battery level |
| Battery | The 48-volt rechargeable battery |
| Range | Up to 40 miles per charge |
| Folded Dimensions | 34”L x 22”H x 34”D |
| Bike weight | 67 lbs. |
| Available colors | Matte Black, Gloss White |
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Buzz Centris reflect a thoughtful and functional approach, catering to the needs of riders seeking a versatile electric folding bike. One of the standout features is its sturdy frame, which, despite its stout size, allows for decent cargo capacity. The removable front and rear racks enhance its utility, capable of carrying substantial loads, such as filming equipment in your case. The bike maintains a commendable balance and weight distribution, thanks to the well-designed racks.
The step-through frame adds to the bike’s user-friendly nature, making getting on and off a breeze. This feature makes the Centris an excellent choice for riders of all kinds. The large down tube not only houses the battery but also contributes to stability. The folding aluminum frame, combined with folding pedals and handlebars, allows the bike to fold into a compact size, making it easy to store and transport.
The cable routing for the frame and folding joint is well-executed, showcasing attention to detail in the manufacturing process. This, coupled with the easy maneuverability of the cables around the handlebars, reflects tight quality control at the factory.
Despite being positioned as an affordable option, the Buzz Centris doesn’t compromise on safety. It complies with the UL 2849 standard for electrical systems, ensuring a reliable and secure electric biking experience. The inclusion of front and rear disc brakes, integrated lights, a bell, and reflectors further enhances safety features.
The 20 x 4-inch tires are well-suited for the Centris, providing a low center of gravity that contributes to a thrilling and easily controllable ride. The addition of front suspension adds to the overall control and comfort, making it not just a practical folding bike but also a potential commuter option. The full set of fenders suggests an inclination towards addressing the practical aspects of daily commuting, ensuring riders stay clean and dry during various weather conditions.
So, the Buzz Centris stands out as a value-packed electric folding bike with cargo capabilities and user-friendly design. Its thoughtful features, safety compliance, and attention to detail in build quality make it a compelling choice for riders seeking a versatile and reliable electric bike. Whether used for commuting or light touring, the Centris showcases a blend of functionality and affordability.
Buzz Centris: Driving Test
Now, let’s delve into the powerhouse that propels the Buzz Centris. At its core, the bike boasts a formidable 500W rear hub motor, a robust force driving the Centris’s performance. This motor, coupled with a Shimano Tourney derailleur, featuring a Twist shift for seamless and efficient gear changes, elevates the biking experience to new heights.
The integration of a Shimano Tourney derailleur, renowned for its reliability and smooth shifting capabilities, ensures that the mechanical gearing of the Centris is on par with its competitors. The Twist shift mechanism on the handlebars further enhances the ease of gear changes, allowing riders to adapt swiftly to varying terrains with minimal effort.
The motor itself is a noteworthy component of the Centris’s power system. Despite its compact size, the 500W motor is robust and provides a substantial amount of power. This motor, designated as Class 2, adds to the versatility of the bike. The Centris can effortlessly reach a maximum speed of 20 mph, whether driven by pedal assist or utilizing the throttle. This flexibility allows riders to choose their preferred mode of propulsion, whether they prefer a more traditional pedaling experience or a boost from the electric motor.
The Class 2 designation indicates that the Centris is equipped with a throttle, enabling riders to control their speed without pedaling. This feature adds a layer of convenience, especially in situations where a quick burst of speed is needed, or when navigating through crowded areas.
Battery and Range
The heart of the Buzz Centris’s electrical prowess lies in its integrated locking battery. This powerhouse packs an impressive 48 volts and a substantial 10 amp-hours of capacity, ensuring a reliable and enduring energy source for your rides.
The integration of a locking mechanism not only secures the battery but also adds a layer of convenience and peace of mind for riders, preventing unauthorized access and deterring theft.
With this formidable battery in play, the Centris demonstrates its capability to cover decent mileage even at full throttle. If you choose to forgo pedaling and solely rely on the throttle, the Centris can still deliver an impressive 15 to 20 miles of range. This showcases the efficiency and power management of the bike, allowing riders the freedom to enjoy an electrically powered journey without the need for constant pedaling effort.
For those who adopt a more leisurely pace and mix in some pedal-assist, the Centris can potentially achieve the stated range of 40 miles on a single charge. This makes the bike a compelling choice for both urban commuters and recreational riders alike, offering the flexibility to tailor the riding experience based on individual preferences and energy conservation.
In essence, the Buzz Centris’s integrated locking battery, with its 48 volts and 10 amp-hours of capacity, strikes a harmonious balance between power and efficiency. Whether you opt for full-throttle cruising or a more relaxed pedal-assist approach, the Centris’s battery ensures a reliable and enjoyable ride with a range that aligns with the demands of various riding styles and distances.
Buzz Centris: Conclusions
So, the Buzz Centris emerges as a remarkable electric bike, seamlessly integrating power, practicality, and affordability. Weighing in at 67 pounds, this folding marvel transforms into a compact size, akin to an ottoman, ensuring ease of storage and transportation. The Centris excels in versatility, accommodating various riding preferences and cargo needs with its step-through frame, cargo racks, and an efficient folding design.
The robust 500W rear hub motor, paired with the Shimano Tourney derailleur, offers a dynamic and efficient riding experience. Whether cruising at full throttle or opting for pedal-assist, the Centris delivers a satisfying range, showcasing its prowess in power management. The integrated locking battery, boasting 48 volts and 10 amp-hours, ensures a reliable energy source for extended journeys.
Safety features, compliance with standards, and thoughtful design elements contribute to the overall quality of the Buzz Centris. This electric bike stands out as a testament to Buzz’s commitment to providing well-made, accessible, and enjoyable electric biking solutions.
A special acknowledgement goes to Buzz for sponsoring Electrik on YouTube. For those eager to embark on their electric biking adventure, you can explore the Buzz Centris further by following the links in the description below. The Centris is not just a mode of transportation; it’s an invitation to a greener, more dynamic way of exploring the world.
