Tern NBD

75/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Charge Time
4.5, 3.5 Hours
Maximum Range
74, 67 Miles
Top Speed
20 mph
Watts
250 W
Torque
65, 50 Nm
Volts and Amp Hours
36V 13.4Ah, 36V 11.1Ah
Class
Drive
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
51.6, 52.2 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Tern NBD. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

15 reasons to buy

  • Long-term testers appreciate the low maintenance needs of the belt drive (S5i) and hub gearing (both builds).
  • The NBD has an adjustable stem and fits a wide height range from 4'10" to 6'3".
  • Owners value the compact frame and folding handlebars.
  • The low step-through frame makes the NBD easy to mount.
  • The S5i's Performance Line 65Nm motor delivers ample power for hills, according to experts.
  • Both brakesets (Magura, Shimano) demonstrate ample stopping power in testing.
  • Experts say the Schwalbe Big Apple 2.15" tires provide good grip on pavement and gravel and help dampen road vibrations.
  • Reviewers highlight the bike's “quiet” operation.
  • Testers confirm Tern's claimed max range of 74 miles (S5i) and 67 miles (P8i) is achievable.
  • The suspension seatpost, padded saddle, and upright riding position produce a comfortable ride.
  • Testers enjoy the NDB's nimble handling and narrow turning radius.
  • Owners praise the bike's stability.
  • The NBD rides well without motor assistance, according to reviewers.
  • The NBD's rear rack doubles as a stand for vertical storage.
  • The NBD comes with fenders, lights, a cafe lock, rear rack, full chain guard, and mounting points for various accessories.

4 reasons not to buy

  • The Tern NBD is expensive, especially the S5i configuration.
  • The kickstand isn't very sturdy. Testers say the bike can fall when loaded if it's not perfectly upright.
  • One reviewer complains that the pedals become slippery when wet.
  • Cables crossing in front of the headlight block its beam slightly.

Bottom line

The Tern NBD is a mid-drive commuter e-bike available in two builds. Both have Shimano Nexus hubs and Bosch motors. The premium S5i has more range, torque, a belt drive, and a 5-speed hub. The NBD earns praise for its "high quality," "excellent" performance, comfort, stable ride, and practical features. Complaints are mostly minor, the most notable being a poorly designed kickstand. However, the Tern NBD's popularity with testers and owners is overshadowed by its high price.

Expert Reviews

69/100 based on 4 rated expert reviews
80

High quality low-step city bike with a quiet motor and impressive load-carrying credentials.

Visit full review

Review: Tern NBD S5i

This easy-going, small electric bike is specifically designed for people with mobility issues.

Visit full review
86
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
lifeCYCLE Magazine

Tern NBD Test: How Good Is the Super Compact & Lightweight Urban E-Bike in Everyday Use?

… they are super compact and offer easy handling even for smaller people who don’t have that much strength. They are high-quality, reliable and totally practical everyday companions!

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[Test] Tern NBD, a Compact Cargo Bike, Small in Size, Big in Spirit [French]

… this is an easy bike to live with. Easy to move and exciting under the pedal strokes.

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Časopis Cykloturistika

Test Tern NBD S5i [Czech]

The Tern NBD S5i is a compact urban e-bike that can carry a surprisingly large load.

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The New Tern NBD S5i: Huge Driving Fun [German]

The Tern NBD S5i is a comfortable compact bike for versatile use. In our test, parents transporting children, pregnant women and older people all felt absolutely safe on the bike.

Visit full review

User Ratings

81/100 based on 15 ratings
  • 5 star
    27%
  • 4 star
    53%
  • 3 star
    20%
  • 2 star
    0%
  • 1 star
    0%

Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#305 Best Electric
Bottom 10%
#121 Best Seniors
Bottom 10%
#7 Best Tern Bike
Bottom 20%
#650 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 20%

Bike Comparison

Tern NBD in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

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