First Look: The New Tern HSD Compact Cargo eBike

A Compact Cargo eBike Built for Everyday Life

When the original Tern HSD launched, it offered much of the carrying capacity of a full-size cargo bike in a package that felt immediately familiar to ride.

The latest generation stays true to that philosophy. At just 174 cm long, the HSD remains compact enough for city living, with the ability to park vertically, roll through lifts and fit into spaces where larger cargo bikes simply won't. New Bosch Gen 5 drive systems are lighter, quieter and more powerful than ever.

Whether it's the school run, commuting, shopping, carrying the dog or simply getting around town, the HSD continues to bridge the gap between a conventional eBike and a full-size cargo bike.

10 Highlights of the New Tern HSD

• Redesigned frame and higher carrying capacity – An all-new frame increases the maximum gross vehicle weight to 190 kg, with an 80 kg-rated Atlas H rear rack for children, cargo or even an adult passenger.
• Bosch Gen 5 Smart System – More powerful, quieter motors, smarter connectivity, and enhanced security features including Battery Lock and Report as Stolen.
• Automatic shifting available – Selected models feature Bosch eShift, taking the effort out of stop-start riding with automatic or electronic gear changes.
• One bike for the whole household – Tool-free adjustments mean riders from 150–205 cm can comfortably share the same bike.
• Compact enough for city living – At just 174 cm long, the HSD remains shorter than many standard bikes while offering genuine cargo bike capability.
• Vertical Parking & FlatFold technology – Store it upright in the hallway, wheel it into a lift, or fold the handlebars flat to fit into the back of an SUV for weekend adventures.
• An even bigger accessory ecosystem – Configure the HSD for toddlers, teenagers, adult passengers, pets or shopping with an extensive range of accessories that grows with your lifestyle.
• Built for confidence – The new geometry, longer wheelbase and lower centre of gravity improve stability and handling when carrying heavier loads.
• Independently certified for cargo bike safety – Third-party tested to EN 17860, the dedicated European cargo bike standard, plus full-bike UL 2849 certification.
• Four new models to choose from – From low-maintenance belt drive options to the new automatic-shifting P10e and flagship S9i, there's an HSD to suit a wide range of riders and budgets.

Pricing & Availability

The new Tern HSD range comprises four models, with UK pricing starting from £4,300. The line-up includes the HSD P5i, P00, P10e and flagship S9i, offering a choice of Bosch Performance and Performance PX motors, belt or chain drivetrains, and both manual and automatic shifting depending on the model. Bikes are expected to arrive in the UK from late summer 2026.

Engineered to Carry More, Ride Better

The biggest changes lie beneath the rider. Tern has completely redesigned the frame with a longer wheelbase, lower centre of gravity and increased stiffness to improve stability when carrying heavier loads.

Maximum gross vehicle weight has increased to 190 kg, while the Atlas H rear rack is now rated to carry up to 80 kg. That's enough for children, shopping, luggage or even an adult passenger.

Across the range, Bosch Gen 5 Smart System motors deliver more power, quieter operation, improved connectivity and enhanced security. Selected models also introduce Bosch eShift, offering electronic or fully automatic gear shifting for smoother stop-start riding.

Designed Around Families and Everyday Utility

One of the reasons the HSD has become so popular is its versatility. The bike can be configured to carry younger children, older passengers, pets or cargo using Tern's extensive range of accessories.

For this generation, Tern has expanded that ecosystem further. Updated versions of the Clubhouse Mini and Storm Box Mini make loading children easier, while new luggage options such as the Hardshell Hauler continue to broaden what the HSD can be used for throughout the week.

Another thoughtful detail is its adjustable fit. With tool-free adjustments, the HSD comfortably accommodates riders from around 150 cm to 205 cm tall, making it easy for multiple members of the household to share the same bike.

Our Verdict

Rather than reinventing the HSD, Tern has focused on refining it. The result is a more capable and polished version of one of the most popular compact cargo eBikes on the market.

The updates are practical rather than flashy: improved carrying capacity, more confident handling, Bosch's latest Smart System and an expanded accessory ecosystem. They're the kind of improvements that matter most to people who rely on their bike every day.

We're looking forward to getting the new HSD into our stores and out on the road. Bikes are due immintently, so stay tuned!