Tern NBD P8i
This robust and fun bike can carry a surprising amount of cargo yet remains easy to both ride and store
Tern stamps its unique design on each of its models, and cycling nerds will have no problem identifying one of the company’s bikes as it whizzes past. Almost its entire range uses 20-inch wheels for nifty acceleration when riding and easy storage when not.
The typical Tern frame is also distinctive, and its details stand out immediately. On the NBD, this is evident in the stem’s robust hinge that helps you squeeze the bike into tight spaces or the squared-off rack that allows the bike to stand on its end for easy storage.
The NBD sits in the middle of Tern’s range. Falling between its longtail cargo bikes and its most diminutive folding models, the NBD is compact in size, city-focussed in style and easy to get aboard thanks to a stepthrough frame. It targets riders who want an e-bike that’s simple and easy to use.
Tern claims the NBD has the lowest, longest step-through opening of any premium e-bike. Indeed, it’s impressively low and will suit those with mobility issues or anyone who wants getting on and off their bike to be as straightforward as possible. Adjustable bars and saddle also mean it will fit riders between 147cm and 190cm.
Despite its size, the NBD P8i still has an impressive load-hauling capacity. It might be the smallest e-bike in Tern’s range, but it will tackle some big jobs if accessorised correctly. The frame and fork have undergone independent testing to support a 140kg maximum gross vehicle weight. The rear rack can support up to 27kg of this and will accommodate a wide variety of child seats. There are also fixings for a large basket or carrying platform at the front of the bike.
The parts are a decent mix too. Largevolume tyres and a suspension seatpost help you glide rather than bump along. Then there’s a Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive system with a 400Wh battery. These are solid, but given the bike’s price, more powerful motors and bigger-capacity batteries are available. Still, eight hub gears, a fully enclosed chain, hydraulic disc brakes, solid mudguards and a hugely powerful front light mean the NBD remains well-outfitted for most situations.