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Tern Bicycles

Tern BYB

Foldable electric bikes have become all the rage amongst micromobility aficionados, but up until now, most of the e-bikes launched have been easy to store, but difficult to travel with. 
Tern came up with the ultra-compact electric bike, and the best part is – it folds down to a carry-on size – perfect for multiple commutes! Read all about its specs, facts and expert reviews below.

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Tern
Price: $
1699
Type:
eBike
Brand:
Tern Bicycles
Class:
Class 1
Release Year:
2019
Brakes:
Rim Brakes
Drive:
Mid-Drive
Frame:
Aluminum
Country:
Taiwan
Suspension:
Yes
Rating:
4.8

Basics

Gears
8
Max Range (km)
106
Max Range (mi)
66
Top Speed (kph)
45
Top Speed (MPH)
28
Watts
400
Weight (kg)
14.3
Weight (LB)
31.5
Weight Capacity (kg)
105.0
Weight Capacity (lb)
231.5
Wheels
2
Wheel Diameter (in.)
20.0
Wheel Diameter (mm)
508
Wheel Width (in.)
1.6
Wheel Width (mm)
41

10 Reasons to Buy the Tern BYB

  • The Tern BYB electric bike has a slim-fitting tri-fold, which reduces the overall footprint, makes it easier to travel with on mixed-mode commutes, and convenient enough to store under the desk - or even place it in a suitcase for air travel.
  • Since the BYB electric bike folds horizontally, the wheels are made to spin independently, allowing the rider to trolley it through security.
  • The e-bike by Tern weighs only 31.5 lbs at its full size, and handles a load capacity of over 250 lbs, which makes it quite convenient to take up on climbs.
  • The wheels of the Tern BYB e-bike are the company's standard 20". They are grippy on rough roads, handle a lot of weight well, and absorb bumps along the way - so every ride is smooth.
  • The Tern BYB electric bike has an 8-speed gear which works with the powerful motor's acceleration, reduces the noise level and proves to be more battery-efficient.
  • The Tern BYB electric bike is fitted with a rigid suspension fork that is stiffer on the road at high speeds, so maneuvering around the traffic isn't just smoother, it's also faster and more stable.
  • The BYB electric bike is equipped with a V brake system which is user-friendly, efficient on the hubs, and easy to maintain. Not to mention, it is commonly available, so replacing it isn't a pain.
  • The Tern BYB electric bike is outfitted with a sturdy 6061 Aluminum shell that resists wear and tear, rust, and handles all kinds of weather well. 
  • To shield against bad weather, or to store the Tern BYB e-bike safely for longer, a cover can be added on top like a tent when it's folded.
  • The step-through frame of the Tern BYB electric bike is adjustable and able to fit riders as short as 4'10", or as long as 6'5" comfortably.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Tern BYB

  • The Tern BYB has a greater gear range, which may not be suitable for beginner or unfit cyclists, especially while traveling downhill.
  • It’s a tad finicky to get the spinner wheels going while it's folded up.
  • The e-bike has a higher seatpost, so it may take some trial and error to get the seatpost-to-handlebar distance perfectly adjusted.

Use Cases

Urban
Neighborhood

Features

Folding Mechanism
Fenders
Integrated Taillight
Tool-free adjustable stem
Metro transit rack with wheels

Bottom Line

Overall, the Tern BYB electric bike seems to perform well and may just be one of the best foldable e-bikes on the market. It checks off all the boxes for a reliable commute.
The 8 speed gears could prove complicated if you’re a beginner rider, and the higher seatpost can be an annoyance for some, so keep those qualities in mind before deciding!

Scores

Ride Quality
4.9
Build Quality
4.9
Design
4.8
Value
4.5
Total
4.8

Reviews

Freewheeling France

"The BYB range undoubtedly takes 20” folding bike design to a new level of compactness and portability."

Ride Quality
Build Quality
Design
Value
Total
4.8
5.0
5.0
4.5
4.8
Bike Radar

"The Tern handles quickly without being twitchy, and with the solidity of its chassis you have a decent mixed-mode commuter bike. It is expensive, but it has broader gearing and superior handling and is easier to ride over longer distances."

Ride Quality
Build Quality
Design
Value
Total
5.0
4.8
4.5
4.5
4.7
Bike Shop Girl

"I purchased the Tern BYB for two reasons. The first being that it packs down to a small, compact setup with no tools required, in an airport-style suitcase, and is super simple to work. The second reason I picked up the BYB is that it fits all the adults in my family."

Ride Quality
Build Quality
Design
Value
Total
5.0
5.0
4.8
4.5
4.8

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