Tern GSD Gen 2 Cargo Bike Review: The Midtail Cargo Bike That Set the Standard

The Tern GSD Gen 2 cargo bike is one of the most popular midtail cargo bikes on the market. It’s compact, powerful, and built to handle heavy loads with ease. If you are shopping for a cargo bike, here are 9 things to know about the Tern GSD in early 2025 to help you decide if it is the cargo bike for you!

Why Should You Read This Review?​

The Tern GSD Gen 2 has been out since late 2020, and many people have reviewed this bike, so why should you read this review? I have a pretty unique view point of the cargo market. This is a bike that I sold at my cargo bike shop before closing in 2020 and then helped refine / market while working at Tern Bicycles and I've ridden in my varieties, locations, and accessory setups than most. I've carried my kids in all kinds of conditions, adults across Frankfurt, Germany, and up the mountains of Colorado. I've pushed the bike, broken a few things, and have a lot of opinions about who the bike is for.

What Makes the Tern GSD Special?​

TLDR: Testing, unique accessories, rocksteady ride quality, commitment to long-term support

The GSD redefined cargo bikes when it launched in 2017-18. It proved that a high-capacity cargo bike doesn’t have to be huge. The compact design—built around 20” wheels—makes it as long as a standard bike while still supporting a max gross vehicle weight of 440 lbs (200 kg).

One key difference between the Tern GSD and other midtail cargo bikes is that the entire bike—not just the frame—meets DIN 79010, the German cargo bike safety standard. Many competitors only test their frames, leaving other crucial parts (fork, brakes, wheels) unverified. This is really something I worry about as I've tested various cargo bikes over the last year that aren't Tern. Am I pushing it too hard? Is the bike safe? I've had a wheel fail and a frame crack under normal riding conditions, which I've never experienced with a Tern.

Built for Safety​

Tern has a premium reputation, and that comes from its commitment to safety.

• UL 2849 Certification: Ensures the electrical components meet strict safety standards.
• DIN 79010 Cargo Bike Standard: The entire bike is tested for its 440 lb weight capacity—not just the frame.
• Lockstand: A sturdy double kickstand locks in place, preventing tip-overs while loading passengers or cargo.
• Wheel Lock: A built-in anti-theft lock that is keyed to match the battery.

Handling & Ride Quality​

The Tern GSD stands out in the way it handles heavy loads. Whether carrying adults, kids, or towing gear, the bike stays rock solid at speed. When fully loaded, some competitors suffer from speed wobble, but the GSD feels incredibly stable.
Who will appreciate the ride quality?

• Beginners will find it easy to handle, even when carrying passengers.
• Experienced riders will love how stiff and responsive it feels, even under heavy loads.

Though not a sporty ride like the Quick Haul Long, the adjustable Andros stem allows you to tweak your riding position for comfort.

Suspension for Comfort​

• The Suntour suspension fork helps absorb road bumps
• An optional suspension seatpost can be added for extra comfort, especially on rough roads or long commutes. Just note, it does require a certain height on your seatpost so if you are a shorter-legged rider it may not be an option.

Cargo-Carrying Capacity​

Deck Length​

The GSD’s rear deck is ideal for:

• 2 child seats within the Clubhouse rail system or on their own
• 2 reasonable-sized kids or 1 adult
• Large 52L panniers
• Flatbed platforms for bulky cargo

Electric Assist & Performance​

The GSD Gen 2 is powered by Bosch’s Cargo Line mid-drive motor, delivering 85Nm of torque—the strongest Bosch motor available.
Why does this matter?

• The mid-drive system applies power directly to the chain, making it feel like you’ve gained superhuman strength.
• There is no throttle, but the motor delivers a strong, natural-feeling assistance, even at low speeds that I prefer over a throttle.

All the GSD models are pre-wired for dual battery setup—perfect for long commutes or deliveries.
It uses Bosch eBike System 2 (BES2), which has widespread part availability and keeps the bike’s cost lower than newer Bosch Smart System models.

Sizing & Adjustability​

The adjustable cockpit allows the bike to fit riders from 4'11" to 6'5", making it great for families or businesses with multiple users. The step-through frame makes mounting and dismounting easy—especially important when carrying kids or heavy cargo.

Tern’s Accessories: The Most Extensive Lineup​

One of Tern’s biggest strengths is its modular accessory ecosystem. No other brand offers as many cargo-specific add-ons.

My Favorite Tern Accessories​

• Clubhouse: Secure seating for two kids or cargo.
• Storm Shield & Storm Box: Weather protection for passengers or cargo.
• Transporteur Rack: Large front rack with a 44 lb capacity.
• Cargo Hold Panniers: Expandable bags with 52L capacity each.

Riding with Kids​

The GSD Gen 2 is one of the best kid-haulers available:

• Great accessories: Keep them dry, warm, and have the right sized seating for them.
• One child: Place them close to the rider for better control.
• Two children: Smaller child at the back for even weight distribution.
• Yepp Maxi Seat or Tern Clubhouse provides extra safety and comfort.

I hope Tern leads the way in setting passenger safety standards, just as they’ve done with cargo bike testing.

Price & Competitors​

The Tern GSD Gen 2 starts at $4,499—a premium price but justified for those replacing a car or using it as a workhorse.

Comparing Alternatives:​

Key Factors to Consider​

• UL-2849 Certification: Ensures electrical safety.
• Cargo Capacity & Deck Size: Can it carry what you need?
• Accessories: Does it offer the add-ons you’ll want as your kids or life change?
• Warranty & Parts Availability: Premium brands offer 5+ years of support.

Where to Buy​

You can purchase the Tern GSD Gen 2 through local Tern dealers or order online for assembly at a Bosch-certified bike shop.

Pros & Cons​

Pros​

Incredible cargo capacity in a compact frame
Comfortable ride with suspension upgrades
Reliable Bosch motor & dual-battery option
Foldable design for easy storage
Unmatched accessory ecosystem
Best-in-class safety testing
Strong warranty & long-term parts availability

Cons​

High price tag
BES2 system lacks the latest tech
Accessories add up quickly—expect to spend $1,000+ more
Limited dealer base outside of major cities means you may need to travel to try one (Join our community to find others!)

Who Should Buy the Tern GSD Gen 2?​

This bike is perfect for:

• Families looking to replace a car
• Small business owners needing a workhorse
• 🏙 Urban riders with limited storage
• Safety-conscious buyers who want top-tier testing
• Parents needing a stable, two-kid cargo bike or for one larger carry

Final Verdict​

The Tern GSD Gen 2 remains the gold standard for midtail cargo bikes. It’s compact, incredibly capable, and backed by rigorous safety testing. While the price is steep for those just looking at cargo bikes, its durability, handling, and accessory options make it worth the investment—especially if you’re replacing regular car trips.

Is the Tern GSD worth it? Let me know your thoughts!