Tern HSD S+ Review: Is it worth it?
Quick Jump Links: Full List of Specs | What’s good | What’s not so good | Our Verdict
Where to buy 💵
$5,699.00 at REI
Brakes: 9.7 | Motor: 9.5 | Drivetrain: 8.8 | Range: 8.9
YesCycling Score – 9.2/10
Full List of Specs 🔧
| Technical Specs | |
|---|---|
| Best Use | Urban Cycling |
| E-Bike Classification | Class 1: pedal assist up to 20 mph |
| Motor | Bosch Performance Line (Gen 3) |
| Motor Type | Mid-Drive |
| Motor Torque (Nm) | 65 |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Capacity (Wh) | 500 watt hours |
| Battery Removable | Yes |
| Charge Time (hrs) | 2.5-4.5 hours |
| Pedal Assist Range | 32-74 miles |
| Frame and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame | 6061 aluminum |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Step-Through | Yes |
| Bike Suspension | Front Suspension |
| Fork | Suntour custom for Tern |
| Fork Travel | 70 millimeters |
| Drivetrain and Gearing | |
|---|---|
| Crankset | Tern HSD custom |
| Bottom Bracket | Motor integrated |
| Shifters | enviolo AUTOMATiQ |
| Rear Cogs | Gates CDX, precision CNC machined cog |
| Internally Geared | Yes |
| Belt Drive | Yes |
| Brakes | |
|---|---|
| Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc Brake |
| Brakes | Magura MT-4 hydraulic disc |
| Brake Levers | Magura hydraulic |
| Wheels and Tires | |
|---|---|
| Rims | Tern Atlas H, Cargo |
| Front Hub | Novatec, thru axle, sealed bearings |
| Rear Hub | enviolo Sport 380 |
| Wheel Size | 20 inches |
| Tires | Schwalbe Big Ben 20 x 2.2 in. (55-406mm), RaceGuard Puncture Protection |
| Tire Width | 2.2 inches |
| Handlebars and Controls | |
|---|---|
| Handlebar Shape | Flat Bar |
| Handlebar | Tern Sweep, 6061-AL, Tern Andros Adapted |
| Stem | Tern Physis 3D with Andros Stem |
| Headset | Tern Flux Pro Taper, 1.5 in., angular contact bearings |
| Seat and Pedals | |
|---|---|
| Seat Post | Cane Creek Thudbuster ST, Tern Telescope, 34.9/30.9mm |
| Saddle | Tern HSD |
| Pedals | Urban platform with nonslip surface, sealed bearings |
| Other Data | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 58 lbs. 11.2 oz. |
| Bike Weight | Bike weight is based on median size, as sold, or the average of two median sizes. |
| Gender | Unisex |
What’s good 👍
- High build quality: The bike is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring long-term durability and optimal performance.
- Long-lasting battery (40-50 miles): The battery offers a significant range, making it perfect for extended rides or commutes without the constant need for recharging.
- Quiet belt drive: Unlike some bikes that can be noisy, this bike’s belt drive offers a silent and smooth ride, enhancing the overall experience.
- Smooth shifting: Transitioning between gears is seamless, making for a smoother ride, especially on varying terrains.
- Offers the combination of single speed fun with geared bike power: It merges the simplicity of a single-speed bike with the power of a motor and geared system, providing versatility in performance.
- Comfortable design: Riders can expect a plush ride, which is especially beneficial for longer trips.
- Can carry significant cargo and even an additional person: Its design and strength make it versatile, catering to varied needs, from carrying groceries to giving someone a lift.
- Lighter weight compared to other e-bikes: Easier to handle and maneuver, especially in urban environments.
- Latest technological features: Stays updated with the current tech trends, ensuring users get the best of innovations in e-bike technology.
- Manually shifting is possible: Even with its automatic shifting feature, riders have the option to switch to manual mode, offering flexibility in riding style.
What’s not so good 👎
- Automatic shifting can be problematic, especially downhill: Some riders have found the auto-shifting feature inefficient, especially on declines, leading to discomfort.
- Potential for bottoming out on steep hills like in Seattle: The bike might not be perfect for steep terrains, requiring manual intervention to prevent “bottoming out”.
- Requires calibration for optimal performance (Enviolo Automatiq with Bosch Intuvia display): Although the calibration process is simple, it’s an additional step some riders might find cumbersome.
- Some riders don’t prefer the automatic shifting feature: Personal preferences vary, and automatic shifting isn’t a hit with everyone.
Our Verdict 🎗
Tern HSD S+ boasts a plethora of commendable features, notably its high build quality, extensive battery life, and user-friendly attributes such as smooth shifting and quiet operation.
Its ability to cater to diverse needs, from carrying cargo to accommodating multiple riders with adjustable features, underscores its versatility. On the technological front, the bike is on par with contemporary advancements, promising a top-tier e-bike experience.
Considering the predominant positive features with a few specific concerns, I’d recommend shortlisting the e-bike and taking a test ride to ensure it meets your personal and geographical needs.
Video Review 🎥
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