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Looking for a car alternative for errands and school drop-offs? The Tern HSD S8i has the hauling capacity of a cargo bike without the footprint. The heavy duty, extra long, double decker rear rack can accommodate both a child seat and panniers—most standard bike racks can’t. Not only is the HSD S8i a more capable hauler than a standard bike with a rear rack, it’s smaller. The HSD S8i is shorter in length than a standard size bicycle. Smaller and more nimble than a 700c electric city bike—yet it fits you and your child, plus the groceries. Thanks to pedal assist, the additional weight of your cargo does not increase the amount of effort you need to provide.
An HSD S8i can be stored vertically in what we call extreme wheelie mode (tipped up on its back rack) with its handlebar folded down. In other words, the Atlas H rear rack doubles as a strong, sturdy stand. You can store the bike in your mudroom, and it won’t take up more space than your coat rack.
One HSD S8i can be shared among many, all thanks to the step through style frame and adjustable stem and seatpost. It resizes in a snap to fit riders 4’11” to 6’5” tall, and because it has a slack seat tube angle, the cockpit will be just as roomy for taller riders as it is for shorter folks.
The HSD S8i has internal gearing and a smooth, silent, clean, durable, maintenance-free Gates belt drive. With a Shimano Nexus 8 internal gear hub, you can shift even when you’re not pedaling, and the gear system is protected from water and grit. With a beefy kickstand like the Ursus, you don’t have to worry about the bike tipping over. Still, your gears are protected. The Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motor flattens hills and fights headwinds. Meaning, you’ll want to ride more often. With a maximum torque of up to 50 Nm, you get gentle acceleration up to 20 mph, i.e., a natural feeling ride. The 400Wh battery gives you a range of up to 69 miles between charges. Wide rims and thru-axle hubs provide a rock solid foundation for hauling cargo. Hydraulic disc brakes provide stopping power in any weather. The HSD S8i’s built-in lighting is connected to the main battery—there’s no need to worry about charging lights or replacing single-use batteries. The Purion onboard computer activates the lights, controls the level of assist, and displays charging status, speed, riding mode, range, trip distance, and more. Front suspension absorbs road vibration from road cracks and potholes, and balloon tires offer comfort and a smooth ride with the reliability of Schwalbe’s RaceGuard puncture protection. The HSD S8i weighs about the same as a regular e-bike, but with a longer wheelbase and extra low center of gravity, it’s a smoother and more stable ride. For added security, there’s an Abus frame lock keyed the same as the battery.
The kid and cargo accessories are really thought out. Roomy, HSD sized panniers that stand up or roll down. A virtually indestructible bike basket that doubles as a shopping basket. Commuter bags with all the bells and whistles. You can even add a heavy duty front rack. The weight limit on the rear rack is 132 lb. It fits one Thule Yepp Maxi, Yepp Nexxt Maxi, or Bobike GO Maxi child seat—no adapters needed. There’s a passenger kit in development.