Leading electric cargo bike manufacturer Tern has launched the HSD Gen 2 model. It’s designed for riders who want the capabilities of a cargo bike, but without the bulkiness of a more traditional sized one and follows on from the popular HSD Gen 1. We reviewed the Tern HSD S8i back in 2019, and found it to be hugely practical, unless you want to give an adult a lift.
This is, however, something that has been addressed for the Gen 2, with an increase in the carrying capacity of the bike. Whereas previously you could only carry 60kg on the rear rack, now you can carry 80kg – enough for many adults or even two children. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, a child and a dog (as long as its not a mountain sized creature).
We've got hold of one and you can read Dave's first impressions of it here.
The overall carrying capacity limit has also been upgraded to 180kg from 170kg, with 20kg of that allocated to the front rack.
What else is new? Well, there are three models in the Gen 2 range: the HSD S00, the HSD P5i and the HSD P10. Each comes with the Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor (with Bosch Smart System on the S00), and a Bosch PowerPack 545Wh battery, which Tern suggests will give a range of 32-76 miles.
The HSD P10 is the cheapest at £4,100. For your money you get a Shimano Deore Shadow+ 10-speed drivetrain and Bosch’s Intuvia 100 Display. The next step up is the P5i at £4,400 which comes with a Shimano Nexus 5-speed internally geared hub.
The S00 follows with a £800 jump to £5,200. Fans of Enviolo rejoice, as here their Heavy Duty internally geared hub is paired with a Gates Carbon Drive CDX Belt.
The S00 also has a RearStop brake light, and a super bright (up to 700 lumens bright) Ignis headlight.
But what about the cargo and carrying capacity? Each model is compatible with several accessories from the Tern ecosystem, including the Clubhouse Mini, the Captain’s Chair, and the Cargo Tray to name a few.
> First Ride: the redesigned Tern HSD
Like the Gen 1 models, the HSD is designed to fit a range of riders, this time between 150cm and 195cm (4’11” – 6’5”) thanks to the adjustable Andros stem (and of course, the adjustable seat height). It’s also easy to store, with FlatFold capabilities. The use of the Bosch Smart System also adds in extra peace of mind thanks to an electronic lock via the app, and location tracking on the S00.
There is clearly a lot to take in with the new Gen 2 models, but all the additions look positive, and give the sense that the brand has listened to feedback on the Gen 1 range. The prices are slightly higher than the Gen 1 equivalents, but in the current climate that can’t be a surprise to many. The Tern HSD Gen 2 range will be available to purchase from chosen retailers across the UK, both online and in-store.
