1970s

Germany is a nation of cars with a very low interest in bicycles. Under the brand name CENTURION, Wolfgang Renner - a successful trick cyclist, cross-country and road champion – decides to change everything, introducing high quality road frames to the German market in 1976.

1980s 

Mountain bikes (MTBs) are relatively unheard of. In 1980, CENTURION releases what is regarded as the world’s first mass-market MTB. In 1984, in another pioneering first, CENTURION release the Accordo GT. Directly derived from the MTB, it is considered to be the grandfather of all trekking bikes. Later in the decade, founder Wolfgang Renner rides across Tibet on a CENTURION MTB.

First MTB from CENTURION: 1982

1990s

CENTURION again proves to be a leader in all forms of cycling. Thomas Hellriegel becomes the first non-American to win the world famous Hawaii Ironman, a punishing 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle and 42.195 km marathon run on his CENTURION Overdrive. Hellriegel sets a cycle course record that remains uneclipsed for over a decade.

At the same time, CENTURION introduces a revolutionary full suspension bike called the No Pogo. The bike wins first prize at the European Bicycle Contest and proceeding models continue to win accolades throughout the 90s.

2000s

CENTURION partners with MERIDA, the world’s second largest bicycle manufacturer. From now on, the companies work in tandem to benefit from each other’s expertise in innovation, research, design, and manufacturing technology.

Later in the decade CENTURION celebrates its 30th anniversary. Poland, Japan, and Taiwan join the CENTURION ranks, at the same time as record exports to nations such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.
 

Today

Germany is one of the world’s biggest cycling nations. ‘Mountain bike’ is part of common language; and almost anyone who has ridden a bicycle has ridden something from the MTB family.
CENTURION releases a new range of road, MTB, recreational and youth bicycles specifically designed for the Australian market. Quality German design and engineering, coupled with affordable pricing ensures Centurion quickly gathers a new legion of fans in the Southern Hemisphere.