Tern launches NBD targeted at smaller or older riders
Tern has today announced the addition of an electric bike designed around riders that are not conventionally ‘average’, pitching the NBD at smaller riders, older riders or riders that struggle with balance or control of a conventional eBike.
NBThe low-slung frame first of all makes mounting and dismounting a lot easier, which can be a complaint with many riders who may carry an injury, or simply find lifting legs high an issue. Tern rightly says “this could be the difference between riding or not,” adding that it believes its offering to be the lowest and longest step through of any premium eBike on the market at present.
The short wheelbase and 20-inch wheels further deliver on easy of manoeuvrability and storage for those tight on space; Tern’s trademark vertical parking features too. Added to that, the bike folds down in seconds, reducing the size.
Despite all of this, it’s a Tern and a such utility features are a standard addition. Despite its compact size, the NBD is rated to a hefty maximum gross vehicle weight of 140 kg, and can handle up to 27 kg on the rear rack, and up to 20 kg on a front rack. With several accessory options, riders can outfit the NBD to suit their specific needs, such as commutes, school drop-offs, and quick grocery runs.
“To the average rider, the NBD will be an amazingly easy-to-handle, easy-to-ride bike that fits wonderfully into crowded urban settings,” stated Josh Hon, Tern Team Captain. “But what gets us really excited about the NBD are the special features we’ve added for riders that aren’t conventionally ‘average’. For riders that are smaller in size and have a hard time finding a bike that fits, or older riders who might not have ridden a bike in a while, or riders who might have balance or physical issues, or riders who are just intimidated by the sheer size and weight of the average eBike, the NBD will be refreshingly easy to hop aboard and ride.”
The NBD is designed with an ultra-low centre of gravity and a longer wheelbase to make it much easier to balance and handle. The lowered bottom bracket and motor give the NBD uniquely stable handling. SimpleStep frame geometry inspires confidence because it lets riders easily get their feet on the ground at stops.
Riders can quickly adjust the NBD seatpost height, cockpit length, and handlebar height to get the riding position that feels most comfortable. The NBD features Tern’s patented Andros Stem that allows for wide adjustment of stem extension and handlebar height. While the NBD works great for riders up to 190 cm, the design of the bike works especially well for riders starting at 147 cm who traditionally have a much harder time finding bikes that fit them well.
For extra peace of mind, the NBD frame and fork have been rigorously tested by EFBE, one of Europe’s leading bike test labs. The Bosch motor/battery system is also one of the few systems on the market today which meets and passes the UL standard for battery and electronics safety.
“Our mission is to get people to replace car trips with bike trips,” continued Hon. “In order to do that, we need to make biking more accessible, comfortable, and safe for everybody. The NBD does that and our entire team is proud to have created something that will bring the joy and practicality of cycling to a wider range of people.”
Pricing & Availability
The NBD platform includes two models—S5i and P8i—and starts at €3,999. Bikes will start arriving in bike shops in Q1/2023.
To listen to a recent CI.N Podcast with Hon, where he discusses industry supply and competition in the marketplace, head here.
