Tern GSD Gen 3 Cargo Bike Review: The cargo bike icon got even better

This morning, Tern Bicycles unveiled the third generation of their iconic GSD cargo bike. At first glance, the Gen 3 doesn’t look wildly different from the Gen 2, and that’s not a bad thing! The GSD has earned its place as one of the most beloved and family-tested cargo bikes on the market. So grab your coffee, and let’s dive into what makes this bike a fan favorite, what’s changed (and what hasn’t), the new models with a surprise twist, and who this latest GSD is built for. Full photo gallery can be found here.

Tern GSD Gen 3 Cargo Bike Highlights​

MSRP: $4,999 - $9,499 USD / $8,249 - 15,075 CAD

The GSD is a midtail cargo bike that can carry up to 2 kids or 1 adult and is the premium model from Tern, sitting at the top of the cargo bike lineup above Quick Haul Long midtail and HSD short tail.

Rider Height: 150 to 200 cm / 4’9” - 6’5”
Rider Weight: 130 kg / 287 lbs
eBike System: Bosch eBike System 3 and Bosch eBike System 2 with Cargo Line Motor 85Nm torque Class 1 assistance to 20mph
Warranty: Frame/Fork 10 years with Tern Care and 2 years on Bosch system
MGVW: 210 kg / 463 lb
Max Cargo Area Weight: 100 kg / 220 lb
Weight of Base Model: 34 kg / 76 lbs
Testing: eBike system tested to UL 2849 eBike System & bike tested to DIN 79010 Cargo Bike Standard

The bike's 20” front and back wheels keep it compact, and the wheelbase is 1350 or 1360mm, depending on the model (more on that in a second!). This all means for the rider a low center of gravity, very stable handling, and one of the easiest two-kid-carrying cargo bikes.

Tern GSD Key Features​

Before we discuss what's new for Gen 3, I want to highlight some of my favorite GSD features:

Sizing and Adjustability​

There is a wide size range of 4’9 to 6’5”, and the bike rides well at all sizes. This is thanks to the adjustable Andros stem and two-stage telescopic seatpost. The Andros stem provides a tool-free way to adjust the front handlebar quickly. What is unique about the Tern design is that it doesn’t feel adjustable. Most competitors are noodly and flex when under max load and steering down here or into tight turns.

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, not just the frame, is tested for a 463-lb weight capacity.
• 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.

Cargo-Carrying Capacity​

What’s New about the Tern GSD Gen 3​

A Stronger and Stiffer Frame and Rear Rack​

When I built this bike, the first things that stuck out to me were the move to a bolt-on rear rack instead of an integrated frame and the HUGE increase in the tube sizing. For example, check out the new seatpost size compared to the old Gen 2.

New Stow Decks & Footsteps​

The frame design no longer has the built-in footstep we saw on the Gen 2. Instead, you’ll need the Stow Decks. These decks fold down in increments with the pull of a knob at the back. This allows them to fold up when not in use and fold down for footrests, support heavy bags, or lash cargo down.

The Lockstand is Improved​

They changed the angle at which the kickstand sits, so it is a bit harder to roll the bike off, but now it doesn’t rely on a latch to keep the bike in place. It has more extended feet, so you don’t have to buy extensions, and a built-in cover to keep out grit and grime.



Other Random Notes

There are also some minor things here and there. The Bosch charging port is moved to the toptube like initially found on the HSD Gen 2. The fit also feels different to me—maybe a change in the seat tube? The handlebar strap now having a place to stay when not in use, the saddle is a much different design, more inline with other "ebike" specific saddles that allow you to push back into the saddle grooves, and the new seatpost quick release levers are so nice (please bring to other bikes in the lineup!)

North American Models​

There are 4 models in North America with an interesting twist. 2 premium models, the R14 and S10, with Bosch's Smart System, and 2 models, the P00 and P10, with Bosch's eBike System 2.



The premium models receive a huge tech booster pack. Bosch's eBike System 3 Smart System with ABS brakes, upgraded front fork, USB-C charging port, Kiox 300 display, Bosch Connect Module preinstalled, and more.

Tern GSD R14 Model Details​

• $9,499 USD
• Bosch eBike System 3 smart system
• 800Wh battery with 2nd battery harness preinstalled
• Rohloff Speed Hub with Gates Belt
• Kiox 300 display
• Magura ABS - yes, antilock brake system
• Heavier-duty Mobie 34 fork for that ABS
• Bosch connect module comes preinstalled for the eBike GPS and Alarm subscription
• Suspension seatpost
• A brighter headlight with up to 700 lumens
• USB-C 10W charging port to charge devices, add fairy lights, or I'll run a camera off the back of my bike

Tern GSD S10 Model Details​

• $6,699 USD
• Bosch eBike System 3 smart system
• 545Wh battery with 2nd battery harness preinstalled
• Shimano Deore 10 Speed
• Kiox 300 display
• Magura ABS
• Heavier-duty Mobie 34 fork for that ABS
• Bosch connect module comes preinstalled for the eBike GPS and Alarm subscription
• Suspension seatpost
• A brighter headlight with up to 700 lumens
• USB-C 10W charging port

The Less Premium GSD Gen 2 Models​

The P00 & P10 models receive all the updates I mentioned earlier - frame, Lockstand, etc but use Bosch’s eBike System 2 with 500Wh powerpack, and Purion display.
Its headlight is downgraded to only 450 Lumens, and with that brightness, I recommend adding a light to your helmet for dark rides.
The fork is the Mobie 32, which means these stanchions aren't as thick. Most people won’t notice, but the fancier fork is needed when you are running ABS - which isn’t available for the older Bosch eBike system 2.


The P10 has a Shimano Deore derailleur with chain and is $4,999


The P00 has an enviolo internally geared hub with Gates Belt and is $5,999

If you want ABS brakes, USB-C charging port, or the Bosch GPS and Alarm - you’ll need to get one of the premium models.

How Much Better Is It?​

Key improvements that stand out to me:​

• Higher Cargo & Passenger Rating – Feels sturdier, especially when my bigger kids are onboard
• Refined Lockstand—The Lockstand is a unique feature for the GSD and a huge selling point, and the updates make it feel more secure and, hopefully, require less maintenance.
• Tech Upgrades – Bosch’s eBike system 3, ABS brakes, stronger front fork, and a USB-C port are fantastic additions and really positions the bike well to compete against the Riese & Müller Multitinker.
• Kiox 300 - There have been many questions about sharing a Bosch Smart System bike and using the eBike Lock and Alarm. This is all easy to do when you run the Kiox 300 or 500 and make it the "key" to lock and unlock those features. It is one of the major reasons I prefer the HSD Gen 2 S11 and S00 for sharing between people.
• The eBike Lock and GPS alarm are the best in North America that run off the battery and an affordable subscription.
• Evolved and Improved Accessories - The Stow Decks are much better IMO. They can fold out a bit wider than the "Wide Deck" and fold out of the way for transportation, storage, or locking in tight racks. The rear rack can accommodate both the Yepp Easy Fit and 2 rack style mounts without the Clubhouse Gen 3.

The GSD Gen 3 Reinforces Tern as a Cargo Bike Leader​

This is where we get personal for a moment. I’ve tested a lot of cargo bikes over the last 10 months since stepping away from Tern and launching Cargo Bike Life. I’ve also realized that as a mom, I am very cautious when it comes to product testing with my kids on board.

I’ve had several bike motors fail mid-ride, kickstands break, and maybe even more concerning because it's like the unknown is hiding under me—many cargo bike brands are not testing their entire bikes to the standards of cargo bike use. Many aren’t even testing the whole bike to eBike safety standards because it isn’t required here in the US.

These experiences led me to pause testing cargo bikes over the last few months. My kids aren’t crash-test dummies, and I was tired of being tech support trying to replace kickstands and motors or test out new software.

That’s why I felt relieved when the GSD Gen 3 media preview landed in my inbox. Tern’s focus on safety and testing to those standards matters—especially when I’m putting my own kids on a bike, around traffic, loaded with gear.

This also led me back to working for Tern since trying out this bike and being reminded how much this company cares among a sea of brands pushing out cargo bikes to check category boxes. It feels good to support a brand that prioritizes safety and design integrity and also not question what I may be putting my family. I originally thought I needed to hype the whole cargo bike movement and all the brands or cargo bikes available. For now, I’m going to amplify the cargo bike movement here on Cargo Bike Life safely on the saddle of a Tern.

New GSD Cargo Bike Accessories​

Sun Shield - $210 USD​

It provides much-needed shade to our young passengers and folds quickly for storage.

Rain Shield - $150 USD​

Snaps onto the Sun Shield for quick rain protection and requires the Sun Shield.

Is the GSD Gen 3 Worth It?​

The latest generation of the GSD has allowed Tern to flex their muscles and refine this flagship cargo bike in ways only a seasoned brand can. The smallest details, like the updated Lockstand, a hidden charging port well placed towards the rear of the bike, and a charging port on the top tube, only come from a design team that uses the bike day to day, not just filling in a category for a large bike line up. Tern knows cargo and the GSD will continue to push this segment.

If you’re looking to replace car trips with a cargo bike that’s comfortable, reliable, and tested for heavy-duty use, the Tern GSD is the best midtail option on the market. It also has the most accessory options available.

If you have a Gen 2 - the main reason you should look at upgrading is for the Bosch Smart System features like the eBike Alarm and GPS.
If you are trying to choose between GSD models, I’ll have a different video out soon, so let me know in the comments below.
If you don’t need as much cargo capacity or tech features, Tern’s Quick Haul Long might be a better fit, and I’ll also work on a video comparing the GSD and Quick Haul Long.

What Do You Think?​

That’s my take on the new Tern GSD! Did I cover everything? What are your thoughts on the updates? Drop a comment below if you’d like a more in-depth breakdown of the models or a comparison of different Tern eBikes.