[UPDATE: Tern offers taller handleposts through their dealers, to improve fit for taller riders. I commented that the stock post does not telescope up and down to improve fit, but these optional taller posts resolve this concern] Motor intro at 14:12, Battery at 14:58 Battery charger and more details at 17:52 Display panel and lights demo at 19:18 Ride test begins at 22:39, Upright semi-folded 25:24 Guest ride at 25:40, Closeup shots and more 28:14
A little too much personal opinion. For many buyers, derailleurs and the other personal preferences you mentioned are complete non-starters. In regards to pricing, apples to apples please. Otherwise great review.
Ive had my HSD Performance for about a month and it's fantastic. It's totally replaced the Subway in NYC for me and is way more stable and nimble than you'd think. My only issue is that I have to keep all my keys for my locks on the same keychain so when the keychain is in the cafe lock my heel sometimes hits it because I've got big feet. I attached a velcro cable strap to strap it to the seat stay and it seems to work. Also, the bucketload panniers are not made for this bike and attach awkwardly, and the Cargo Holds when forward enough to accommodate the vertical storage hits my heel, but when it's back far enough I can't vertically store it. I would find some Ortliebs which are far more versatile in terms of mounting. The Hauler front rack that's show here is amazing though and doesn't get in the way. I highly recommend going for the HSD P9 Performance if you're a larger rider or are in an area with big hills, both of which apply to me. Just remember to shift down before you end up at a stop light and don't shift under power.
It is a great bike and a great cargo bike. We got one at the beginning of April 2020 and have eliminated 80% of local car journeys, because it is such fun to use.
Sweet! Thanks for the testimonial here, Kola! I used to get to ride to work daily in Austin, and it made me feel healthier and happier. I'm so glad that you are able and have chosen to ride so much! Good for everyone... traffic, environment, and you :D
Tern deserve success with the HSD and GSD bikes, they look great. I've been looking at small cargo and utility bikes a lot recently. The Yuba Kombi (non assisted) really appeals too.
Hey Stuart! Glad you enjoyed it, hope things open up for you guys soon... as long as the cases are down. I've been extra careful lately too, not so many cases in Canada but still wearing masks and gloves, using hand sanitizer etc. Cheers!
stuart cassley Honestly, this is a fantastic utility bike. I am also in UK and bought this 7 weeks ago, in the midst of our current restrictions. I did not get a chance to test ride it, but I was confident of a “blind” purchase, because I have tested the GSD and the second generation Vektron, in the last year. The HSD is super-stable and handles easily at low and high speeds. It is such a great tool that it has been used everyday, since It was delivered. This has been great for the weekly grocery errands and the daily exercise loops.
SO Well designed for looks and Purpose its Ridiculous . for years i've had hooks in the wall to hold ebikes upright by front tire . Tern Gets it . We need small function without folding too .
That light on your helmet is a great idea.I see many people riding on busy roads with dark clothing and no lights..kinda scary with so many car drivers distracted with phones
For sure... my old helmet was white, and this is also why I chose white sunglasses. I've been hit by a car once (fairly gently) and just want to stay healthy. No fun for rider or the driver, so the light is a great way to be seen :D
Step through frames are so addictive for commuting in cities where you are on and off the bike a lot. Throw on a suspension post and this bike would be very hard to beat!
THIS IS PERFECT. took so many years to get this design right, but this is so perfect that it will be copied by others and sold at 2000$ with a bafang max or steps system.
If you prefer the derailleur, more power, and the bigger battery, Tern sells an upgraded P9 called the P9 Performance+, which haas the Performance Line motor, the 500 W Hr battery, better charger, and the chain and 9-gear cassette with the dual shifters instead of the grip shifter. It's a pretty perfect combination at only $3600 USD.
Great bike, just started selling them where I am in France. Love the fact it is easy to store and it's tough enough for cargo. Also like its' accessories. I'm 5'2", have an electric bike, but if I change, will definitely get one of these.
Glad it was helpful! That's what I do this for, hoping to help people find the right bike and be happy with it... and know the parts so they can fix and maintain it ;)
Thanks for the positive feedback, that brightens my day for sure! I spend a lot of time studying and imagining what I'd want to know before buying. At first I couldn't get the clear picture of why Tern would make another midtail cargo, but I love how lightweight the HSD is, and the suspension fork is wonderful :D
Thanks for posting the review, I have just bought the HSD 8Si and your advice and observations were very helpful. It was more than an informative video, you have an entertaining presentation style and I liked the way you spontaneously engaged a buddy. It looks like you live in a lovely place to cycle, did I hear you say it's Vancouver/Canada ... I'd know idea it is so cycle friendly.
I agree with the point you make about the retained keys in the frame lock. Most of the frame lock makers allow you to order the frame lock as either "retained" or unretained". Not sure why some bike manufacturers are infatuated with the retained key version. I think the unretained versions are much better. I will say, I would not put these retained keys onto my regular keychain. I put a simple plastic key fob on the key of the one bike we have with a retained key. The plastic fob doesn't make noise while riding and gives you a little more to hang onto with the key removed from the lock. The real hassle with these retained keys is you must lock the frame lock to remove the key. I am not a big fan of the wheel lock aspect of the frame lock, as it is too easy to forget and shove your heavy cargo bike or even e-bike forward with the wheel lock still locked - with potential damage to your spokes. (Yes, you can use the motorcycle disc lock "reminder" safety cables so you remember the wheel is locked.) For quick "coffee shop" type stops, I do like to use the supplemental chains that snap into these frame locks. With the unretained version of the frame lock, you can use the chain without locking the wheel - thus no potential spoke damage. Finally, with the retained key frame locks with key-alike, you have to lock the wheel to remove the the key to allow you to remove the battery for charging. Why?
augsburg this particular lock has a cool feature to save the spokes that wasn’t covered here but another reviewer propel did but you make some good points here i would much prefer the unretained version
Yeah! I've seen that cable option where you can secure the bike and lock to a pole or bike rack. Great points all around, thanks for sharing these with us.
OK, I get that its quality but honestly, it cost 4-5 thousand dollars and you seemed so,so about it where as you seemed really happy with the RAD Runner Plus for half this amount! Am I missing something? Just wondering because I'm buying a bike this weekend 7-3-21 and any input would help. Thanks for another solid review.........
Class 1 is a deal breaker for that kind of money. With my Class 2 I never have to worry when I have to stop half way up the hill. I just use the throttle to help me get out of the way quickly.
What is the size of the bike when the handle bar is folded & seat all the way down? Does it fit in a car. hatchback or SUV. Please measure from tire to tire and the seat to floor.
Hi Tim! I've done some custom measurements back at the site electricbikereview.com/tern/hsd-s8i/ and their official spec for folded is 64" x 15.9" x 34" is that what you meant?
I've seen a few models with belt drive and internally geared hub, like the eProdigy Magic Pro electricbikereview.com/eprodigy/magic-pro/ and EVELO has the Galaxy electricbikereview.com/evelo/galaxy-24/ or do you mean like, cargo bikes?
Great question! My guess is that they do NOT fit standard panniers, because the tube thickness is increased for strength. I should have mentioned this... there are indeed some other panniers now that fit this gauge, but they aren't as common as the traditional ones.
logtothebase2 I can absolutely confirm that Ortlieb QL2.1 panniers fit on the Tern HSD rack with no problem. The thick tubing works with the Ortlieb fixings without the need for using the reducer inserts. Tern designed the HSD and GSD racks with this in mind. We use both standard size (20 litre) Back Roller panniers and the dinkier (15 litre) Sport Packer panniers. The long rack means there is no risk of heel strikes.
I recommend the Cube Compact bike instead of this bike. I find this bike very overpriced. For that price, you should at least get a 500WH battery with a better BOSCH engine since this has active plus with 50 Nm ( Basic). Considering the weight of the bike, which is 25.5KG (56 lb) and that is heavy !!! With the kids and shopping on the rack, this seems to have hard time. This bike has achieved the look of the premium bike, but in terms of the electric side, and power of it is not that great. All I hear from you is that this is a great bike to buy which is not that great! I enjoy your videos. Very detail. But I think you should spend some time on the cons!
Ariel Rider makes some great products! I covered the M-Class a while back, liked that it had a throttle, which is rare for a mid-drive electricbikereview.com/ariel-rider/m-class/
[UPDATE: Tern offers taller handleposts through their dealers, to improve fit for taller riders. I commented that the stock post does not telescope up and down to improve fit, but these optional taller posts resolve this concern]
Motor intro at 14:12, Battery at 14:58
Battery charger and more details at 17:52
Display panel and lights demo at 19:18
Ride test begins at 22:39, Upright semi-folded 25:24
Guest ride at 25:40, Closeup shots and more 28:14
A little too much personal opinion. For many buyers, derailleurs and the other personal preferences you mentioned are complete non-starters. In regards to pricing, apples to apples please. Otherwise great review.
Ive had my HSD Performance for about a month and it's fantastic. It's totally replaced the Subway in NYC for me and is way more stable and nimble than you'd think. My only issue is that I have to keep all my keys for my locks on the same keychain so when the keychain is in the cafe lock my heel sometimes hits it because I've got big feet. I attached a velcro cable strap to strap it to the seat stay and it seems to work. Also, the bucketload panniers are not made for this bike and attach awkwardly, and the Cargo Holds when forward enough to accommodate the vertical storage hits my heel, but when it's back far enough I can't vertically store it. I would find some Ortliebs which are far more versatile in terms of mounting. The Hauler front rack that's show here is amazing though and doesn't get in the way. I highly recommend going for the HSD P9 Performance if you're a larger rider or are in an area with big hills, both of which apply to me. Just remember to shift down before you end up at a stop light and don't shift under power.
It is a great bike and a great cargo bike. We got one at the beginning of April 2020 and have eliminated 80% of local car journeys, because it is such fun to use.
Sweet! Thanks for the testimonial here, Kola! I used to get to ride to work daily in Austin, and it made me feel healthier and happier. I'm so glad that you are able and have chosen to ride so much! Good for everyone... traffic, environment, and you :D
Tern deserve success with the HSD and GSD bikes, they look great. I've been looking at small cargo and utility bikes a lot recently. The Yuba Kombi (non assisted) really appeals too.
Thanks for reviewing this bike , big help at present, can’t get to view in the flesh at present in the uk , keep safe , cheers court
Hey Stuart! Glad you enjoyed it, hope things open up for you guys soon... as long as the cases are down. I've been extra careful lately too, not so many cases in Canada but still wearing masks and gloves, using hand sanitizer etc. Cheers!
stuart cassley Honestly, this is a fantastic utility bike. I am also in UK and bought this 7 weeks ago, in the midst of our current restrictions. I did not get a chance to test ride it, but I was confident of a “blind” purchase, because I have tested the GSD and the second generation Vektron, in the last year. The HSD is super-stable and handles easily at low and high speeds. It is such a great tool that it has been used everyday, since It was delivered. This has been great for the weekly grocery errands and the daily exercise loops.
SO Well designed for looks and Purpose its Ridiculous . for years i've had hooks in the wall to hold ebikes upright by front tire . Tern Gets it . We need small function without folding too .
Spot on, I agree with your assessment. These ebikes look great and are so smartly designed. Lots of utility when riding and parking :D
That light on your helmet is a great idea.I see many people riding on busy roads with dark clothing and no lights..kinda scary with so many car drivers distracted with phones
For sure... my old helmet was white, and this is also why I chose white sunglasses. I've been hit by a car once (fairly gently) and just want to stay healthy. No fun for rider or the driver, so the light is a great way to be seen :D
Step through frames are so addictive for commuting in cities where you are on and off the bike a lot. Throw on a suspension post and this bike would be very hard to beat!
Loved the review. Especially the part where you randomly made friends with the construction fella. "We take all people's money :)"
THIS IS PERFECT. took so many years to get this design right, but this is so perfect that it will be copied by others and sold at 2000$ with a bafang max or steps system.
If you prefer the derailleur, more power, and the bigger battery, Tern sells an upgraded P9 called the P9 Performance+, which haas the Performance Line motor, the 500 W Hr battery, better charger, and the chain and 9-gear cassette with the dual shifters instead of the grip shifter. It's a pretty perfect combination at only $3600 USD.
Great bike, just started selling them where I am in France. Love the fact it is easy to store and it's tough enough for cargo. Also like its' accessories. I'm 5'2", have an electric bike, but if I change, will definitely get one of these.
great and thorough review on the exact model I am looking at thanks so much for the great content
Glad it was helpful! That's what I do this for, hoping to help people find the right bike and be happy with it... and know the parts so they can fix and maintain it ;)
I think ill go for this bike aswell.The best revew i watched ..Thanks.☀️
Andrew is the real MVP of this video.
Yeah! I'm just glad I got my camera back :P
@@ElectricBikeReview He seemed like a nice guy! Also how'd I know you'd be a night owl, lol
I really appreciate your reviews. Thanks
Thanks for the positive feedback, that brightens my day for sure! I spend a lot of time studying and imagining what I'd want to know before buying. At first I couldn't get the clear picture of why Tern would make another midtail cargo, but I love how lightweight the HSD is, and the suspension fork is wonderful :D
Thanks for posting the review, I have just bought the HSD 8Si and your advice and observations were very helpful. It was more than an informative video, you have an entertaining presentation style and I liked the way you spontaneously engaged a buddy. It looks like you live in a lovely place to cycle, did I hear you say it's Vancouver/Canada ... I'd know idea it is so cycle friendly.
I agree with the point you make about the retained keys in the frame lock. Most of the frame lock makers allow you to order the frame lock as either "retained" or unretained". Not sure why some bike manufacturers are infatuated with the retained key version. I think the unretained versions are much better.
I will say, I would not put these retained keys onto my regular keychain. I put a simple plastic key fob on the key of the one bike we have with a retained key. The plastic fob doesn't make noise while riding and gives you a little more to hang onto with the key removed from the lock.
The real hassle with these retained keys is you must lock the frame lock to remove the key. I am not a big fan of the wheel lock aspect of the frame lock, as it is too easy to forget and shove your heavy cargo bike or even e-bike forward with the wheel lock still locked - with potential damage to your spokes. (Yes, you can use the motorcycle disc lock "reminder" safety cables so you remember the wheel is locked.)
For quick "coffee shop" type stops, I do like to use the supplemental chains that snap into these frame locks. With the unretained version of the frame lock, you can use the chain without locking the wheel - thus no potential spoke damage.
Finally, with the retained key frame locks with key-alike, you have to lock the wheel to remove the the key to allow you to remove the battery for charging. Why?
augsburg this particular lock has a cool feature to save the spokes that wasn’t covered here but another reviewer propel did but you make some good points here i would much prefer the unretained version
Yeah! I've seen that cable option where you can secure the bike and lock to a pole or bike rack. Great points all around, thanks for sharing these with us.
OK, I get that its quality but honestly, it cost 4-5 thousand dollars and you seemed so,so about it where as you seemed really happy with the RAD Runner Plus for half this amount! Am I missing something? Just wondering because I'm buying a bike this weekend 7-3-21 and any input would help. Thanks for another solid review.........
Are you reviewing the automatic shifter on the S+? I just heard they made them so I wanted to see how the automatic shifter works.
I’m considering a tern for our RV and there now is a P9 with the Performance motor and 500 watt battery.
One of the best for sure.
Definitely, great quality here and the company seems to have good people working there. I've known them for years and everyone is very cool :)
P.ut a small carabiner on your key ring with your bike key.Remove use the single key no rattling replace key on carabiner .
Good tip, Richard! I've seen some lightweight plastic carabiners too, so that could be the way to work around the locked-in key situation here
Class 1 is a deal breaker for that kind of money. With my Class 2 I never have to worry when I have to stop half way up the hill. I just use the throttle to help me get out of the way quickly.
Awesome bike very comportable with electric
why you never show how these things handle beer crates ?
What is the size of the bike when the handle bar is folded & seat all the way down? Does it fit in a car. hatchback or SUV. Please measure from tire to tire and the seat to floor.
Hi Tim! I've done some custom measurements back at the site electricbikereview.com/tern/hsd-s8i/ and their official spec for folded is 64" x 15.9" x 34" is that what you meant?
Hi
Thank you for all the info you have provided to youtube!!!!
Can you please explain why you wear a helmet while your not riding? Pleaae
that crow is trying to steal the show
Cool review!!!!!
Thanks Raymond! It was a beautiful day, and so fun to get out and about on a bicycle. I appreciate your comment :D
Does the bike allow any bag attachment after installing a kid seat?
Love the drive train! Are there other bikes set up the same way?
Top speed?
I've seen a few models with belt drive and internally geared hub, like the eProdigy Magic Pro electricbikereview.com/eprodigy/magic-pro/ and EVELO has the Galaxy electricbikereview.com/evelo/galaxy-24/ or do you mean like, cargo bikes?
Thanks!!!!!!
Sure thing Raymond :D
Good. Any chance of a review of the HSD +?, It's a auto shift model
Terrific review; thank you. Just purchased this but it cost $4.6K at Scooteretti in Ottawa. Did I get hosed?
No. Here in norway i will have to pay 5100 $.i will bargain ;)
Can you review the Yuba Kombi in this style please? It's not assisted but I'd love to hear what you think about it.
Do the Tern racks on this and the Vektron fit standard mounting paniers. The rack tubing seems a little to thick for normal bag clips and hooks?
Great question! My guess is that they do NOT fit standard panniers, because the tube thickness is increased for strength. I should have mentioned this... there are indeed some other panniers now that fit this gauge, but they aren't as common as the traditional ones.
logtothebase2 I can absolutely confirm that Ortlieb QL2.1 panniers fit on the Tern HSD rack with no problem. The thick tubing works with the Ortlieb fixings without the need for using the reducer inserts. Tern designed the HSD and GSD racks with this in mind. We use both standard size (20 litre) Back Roller panniers and the dinkier (15 litre) Sport Packer panniers. The long rack means there is no risk of heel strikes.
@@kolaajibade8846 Thanks for the info I have a pair of those (quite old but good condition) I'll check the fittings more closely.
Hi!
Would you know which Tern HSD model run faster with Power off?
Is there a throttle u can use without peddling?
Just received the bike. Very nice but the cabling in front blocks the light.
Hi.Im thinking of getting this bike. You had it now for 6 months ?so i wander how you like it,and how do you like the beltdrive.? 😊
Got flat back tyre after using only one bar of the battery :P
Can we go on long ride with this bicycle?
Is there a site that can tell me where a particular bicycle is produced?
Nice bikes, but the prices are outrageous, IMO.
As someone without a real need for the additional cargo hauling capacity, is the rear rack removable to give the bike a sleeker look?
Liked it
Sweet! Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for the positive feedback :D
rad runner plus or hsd?
Isn't that is too fast pedalling?
I recommend the Cube Compact bike instead of this bike. I find this bike very overpriced. For that price, you should at least get a 500WH battery with a better BOSCH engine since this has active plus with 50 Nm ( Basic). Considering the weight of the bike, which is 25.5KG (56 lb) and that is heavy !!! With the kids and shopping on the rack, this seems to have hard time. This bike has achieved the look of the premium bike, but in terms of the electric side, and power of it is not that great. All I hear from you is that this is a great bike to buy which is not that great! I enjoy your videos. Very detail. But I think you should spend some time on the cons!
All your videos were never mention any about after sale and support😪
too bad they don't make these in non-electric
This link does not work:
electricbikereview.com/tern/hsd-8si/
Thanks for the heads up! I mistyped the name and link when posting this last night... all fixed now ;)
30:36 Dude...hair!
Do you like shaved guys instead?
Ariel M-Class is cheaper and very resistent.
Ariel Rider makes some great products! I covered the M-Class a while back, liked that it had a throttle, which is rare for a mid-drive electricbikereview.com/ariel-rider/m-class/
too expen sive