Tested: The 2025 Tern GSD S10 Electric Cargo Bike – A Pricey Dream Ride!

Tern, a renowned Taiwanese brand, has made a significant mark in the electric bike market, especially with its compact designs.

Initially, Tern was known for its folding electric bikes featuring a unique brand design. In recent years, however, Tern has revolutionized the electric cargo bike with its GSD model, notably more compact than traditional cargo bikes.

The anticipation for this new version of the brand’s most iconic model was high. Does the third-generation Tern GSD still reign supreme among compact electric cargo bikes? Let’s find out.

Technical Specifications

This review was conducted using a model provided by the brand.

A Design That’s Not So Compact Anymore

The new Tern GSD introduces a more robust structure than its predecessors. Now, the frame can handle up to 210 kg of total load, with 100 kg on the rear rack and 130 kg on the seat post. Tern is proud to be one of the few brands to have their model pass the EFBE Tri-Test, the only standard that tests cargo bikes with actual weights.

We’ve also tested the VELLO SUB, which successfully passed this test. We’re dealing with excellence here, with a weight capacity that is truly exceptional. It’s hard to outdo this Tern GSD in this aspect.

While bearing a strong resemblance to the older model, this version adopts a more serious look with more rectangular lines. This new GSD is larger than its predecessors, measuring 1m92 in length—7 cm longer than before. This isn’t a trivial increase for a bike, even if it remains within reasonable limits.

Like the previous GSD, this version comes equipped with 20-inch Schwalbe Pick-Up tires. We’ve discussed these enough in our tests: they are the best tires for a cargo bike. They are wide and puncture-resistant.

Thanks to its 20-inch tires and a low double-bar frame, this GSD is suitable for anyone between 1m50 and 2m tall. As usual, Tern provides two seat post clamps, which is very convenient when the bike is shared between two people of different heights.

The last point about this new design involves a choice that might not please everyone, pertaining to cable management. Tern has prioritized repairability over a sleek design. Personally, I support this difficult choice, though it must be acknowledged that there are numerous cables, especially at the front.

Impressive Equipment

I’ll try to cover everything. At 6850 euros for our test model, Tern has definitely gone all out with the standard equipment.

Unlike the Tern Quick Haul Long, the GSD is equipped with a high-quality Suntour suspension fork. This setup makes rides over cobblestones less painful.

Right behind this fork, Tern includes a frame lock as standard, an equipment piece I find particularly interesting for securing the bike during quick stops.

The key is locked once the frame lock is unlocked, and it remains there throughout the ride. I personally prefer being able to retrieve the key after unlocking, but it’s a minor detail.

The handlebar stem of this GSD is adjustable both in height and angle very easily, without any tools.

This new Tern GSD continues the tradition and can be stored vertically, with the possibility of folding the handlebar stem using a dedicated lever.

Of course, one of the GSD’s hallmarks is its Atlas kickstand, one of the most secure I know in the cargo bike market.

A kickstand is crucial on this type of bike, whether for loading goods or children. It must be robust and secure, which is the case for this kickstand that, once deployed, is locked. To unlock it, you’ll need to press the lever on the handlebar and then flip it with your foot like any other kickstand.

In this new version, extensions have been installed for maximum loading stability. Tern has thus managed to improve a kickstand that was already close to perfection.

For comfort, in addition to the suspended fork, this Tern GSD benefits from a high-quality, brand-customized saddle. Besides being very comfortable, it features excellent suspension from Cane Creek. The handles, made by Ergon, are very pleasant to hold.

The only component that could have been higher quality given the bike’s price is the bell. On my test bike, its use was hindered by levers and cables.

The chain is protected by a guard, which will prevent oil stains on your trousers.

Let There Be Light!

I’ve tested about twenty cargo bikes, and this is the first time I’ve been so impressed by a bike light. I’ve simply never tested a bike equipped with such a powerful headlight. The VELLO SUB previously held the record, but it has now been demoted to second place. 700 lumens—that’s the power of this front light. It means that this Tern GSD can be ridden even in total darkness.

Two modes are available: the standard low beam mode, and the high beam mode, which increases the range of illumination. All lighting is controlled with small push buttons on the handlebar directly, which is very convenient. The rear light is also excellent, with a safety feature—the brake light that operates continuously, even if the headlights are off.

A Cargo Section Worthy of the Brand

The rear rack is spacious and robust, supporting up to 100 kg. I was able to install my two children without any issues.

Of course, like with most cargo bikes, you’ll need to spend extra euros to get all the necessary equipment for children: 230 euros for the new Clubhouse structure with side bars, 40 euros for the Clubhouse SeatPad cushion, 35 euros for the rear passenger belt, 139 euros for the retractable footrests, and over a hundred euros for the Thule Yepp baby seat.

That’s a total additional budget of over 500 euros for all this equipment on top of the bike sold at 6850 euros. So, the total cost is particularly steep.

This new model can be equipped with the beautiful front rack that needs no introduction and is particularly comfortable for daily use to carry your groceries or bag, even if it inevitably complicates parking between two bike stands. Its price: 165 euros, and it can support up to 20 kg maximum.

And a little bonus, on my test model, I had a pouch installed at the back of the basket. It’s the Ride Pouch priced at 30 euros, which I personally found very practical.

Embedded Technologies: Starter, Main Course, Dessert!

The technology on this Tern GSD S10 LX Gen 3 is finally worthy of a cargo bike in this range. The price is high, but at least the brand doesn’t skimp on features.

Like almost all high-end longtail bikes, this Tern GSD is equipped with a Bosch Cargo Line motor, which we’ll discuss later. A note about the Bosch eBike system in general on this bike: it is UL 2849 certified, the new fire safety standard that protects the motor, battery, and charger.

To make the most of this motor, Tern has integrated the Bosch LED Remote control on its new generation GSD, a classic, effective for changing assistance levels with a simple finger press and for navigating the menus.

On this model, you’ll also get the excellent Kiox 300 display. You’re thus fortunate to enjoy great comfort with this display: speed, remaining range, assistance level, time, trip, etc.

And the highlight: the standard integration of the Connect Module to enjoy full connectivity offered by the new engines from the Bosch range. You get an alarm and GPS tracking; subject to subscribing to a service at 39.99 euros per year with the first year free. In short, the full package.

And for the most connected among you, you can charge your smartphones or other connected devices with a simple USB-C cable. The USB-C port is located just below the 2nd battery slot.

And finally, what sets this model apart from all other cargo bike models on the market today: standard ABS. Yes, like in a car, this Tern GSD is equipped with ABS as standard. I’ll come back to this in the driving part of this test. Spoiler: it changes everything!

Driving: Compromises That May Not Please Everyone

I won’t dwell on the Bosch Cargo Line motor that powers this Tern GSD. It offers 85 Nm of torque and what sets it apart from the previous model is the integration of the Smart System and the addition of the excellent Auto mode that I really like (even if its use is less easy with this model).

A note about our test model: the inscription on the motor (Performance Line CX) is incorrect. It was indeed, as with the commercially available model, the Cargo Line.

So, what’s it like to drive this new generation Tern GSD? That’s where fans of the early models will be disappointed. Gone is the light and compact GSD: welcome to a model closer to a Riese & Müller Multitinker.

The driving experience is less fun than previous models but more reassuring. With its extra pounds and slight bulkiness, this Tern GSD has changed categories and is now closer to an SUV than a compact car. It weighs in at 37.32 kg on the scales, a weight close to that of the Btwin R500E we previously tested.

The other consequence of this increase in weight is the almost systematic use of the Turbo or Cargo mode at the expense of the Auto mode, which becomes insufficient in terms of assistance. That’s the price to pay for such a level of equipment, comfort, and safety.

Speaking of comfort, this is a strong point of this bike in addition to safety. With its suspended fork and saddle and wide Schwalbe Pick-Up tires, the comfort level of this model is simply excellent.

Transmission and Braking

Now, let’s talk about the biggest strengths of this GSD: the transmission and braking.

What a pleasure it is to shift the mechanical gears on this GSD! Tern has chosen a very good system: a 10-speed Shimano Deore external derailleur transmission. The gears shift smoothly and, above all, very quickly. The choice of this transmission makes a difference in terms of driving, and for cycling enthusiasts who have become parents, keeping this little pleasure on a utility bike is something we welcome!

Braking is a crucial element on a cargo bike. There’s no skimping on this point. Tern has opted for Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes with 4 pistons at the front and rear, coupled with imposing 203 mm discs for effective braking. Needless to say, this is the best of what’s currently available.

Coupled with this braking system, the ABS, which is the major asset of this model. I braked on a wet surface, and do you know what happened? Nothing. Well, the bike braked as if the ground had never received a single drop of rain. I’ve never felt so safe on a bike.

Autonomy: Good Thing There’s the Dual Battery Option!

This Tern GSD is equipped with a 545 Wh Bosch battery. That’s the same capacity as a VELLO SUB, but with nearly 10 kg more on the scale for this model, obviously, the range won’t be the same. Using Turbo mode (since Auto mode wasn’t sufficient to my liking), I ranged between 35 and 40 km maximum.

It’s still adequate for urban use. Fortunately, like its predecessor, Tern offers the possibility of installing two batteries for almost twice the autonomy.

However, acquiring a second battery will significantly increase the cost (about 700 euros in stores for this capacity).

The battery can be charged either by connecting it to the charger or directly from the bike frame. Convenient!

Tern provides Bosch’s 4A fast charger, which allows the battery to be charged in less than 5 hours.

Price and Availability

Let’s just say it right away: it’s not hard to find a Tern bike since it’s distributed in almost all bike shops: Cyclable, Ecox, En Selle Marcel. What’s more difficult, however, is buying one. 6850 euros is its price, and that’s without the necessary accessories for safely transporting your children.

Yes, it’s a very high price, but it’s important to understand that the level of equipment compared to other models on the market is also very high: suspension at the saddle and fork, ABS, Connect Module and Kiox 300, Shimano Deore, Magura brakes.

For those who do not wish to spend such a sum on a cargo bike, there are more “affordable” alternatives. The Tern GSD P10, equipped with the older version of the Bosch motor (without Smart System) and with a 500 Wh battery, costs 5800 euros, which is 1000 euros less than our test bike.

And

Similar Posts

• We Tried Moustache’s New Family Electric Bike: Could This Be the Perfect Ride?
• We Tested Le Petit Porteur Longtail: Discover the Ultimate Durable Electric Bike for Cycling Enthusiasts!
• We Tested the Anod Hybrid 2: World’s Fastest Charging Electric Bike!
• I Tried the Yuba Boda Boda: Discover the Joy of Riding This Electric Cargo Bike!
• We Tested the New Gaya: Discover the Luxe Comfort of This Premium Electric Longtail Bike!

Maya Singh

Maya Singh is a senior editor covering tablets and hybrid devices. Her work explores how these tools reshape digital productivity and learning. She also contributes to feature editorials on emerging tech.