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  1. Perennial Cycle Loves the Tern HSD Gen 2

    Reasons to Buy a Tern HSD Gen 2

    Chart showing Tern HSD Gen 2 specs for North American models. Comparison of HSD P10, HSD P5i, HSD S00, and HSD S11
    Comparison of HSD Gen 2 specs.

    Introduction

    Since 2019, the HSD has been setting new standards and changing its riders' expectations of what a bike can do! Recently, Tern made their bestseller midtail electric bike even better by releasing the HSD Gen 2

    With several upgrades and new features, the HSD Gen 2 is an exciting evolution of the original HSD. Tern increased the Max Gross Vehicle Weight to 397 lbs, increased the battery size to 545Wh (76 mi range), upgraded the charging system, and added smart security features such as an app-controlled lock. Moreover, the bike now runs on the Bosch Smart System, making it even easier to operate.

    The HSD Gen 2 model comes in four different models—HSD P10, HSD P5i, HSD S00, and HSD S11. If you're new to the family, it may seem overwhelming, but trust us--all HSD models are stable and smooth on the road.

    In this article, we'll compare the unique features of the new models, then break down the differences between the P-type and S-type models.

    If you’re shopping for a capable and versatile electric cargo bike, you’ll love the Tern HSD Gen 2.

    Here’s why:

    HSD Gen 2 has all the pros of the original HSD

    In addition to being fun, the HSD also provides a reliable means of transportation that people can depend on daily. Moreover, Tern's philosophy focuses on creating bikes with longevity in mind, rather than producing disposable items that will inevitably malfunction.

    Features of every Tern HSD:

    The size of cargo bikes can be intimidating. With this in mind, the HSD is designed to be inviting for all. Its low center of gravity makes the HSD easy to ride even when fully loaded, and it’s always comfortable thanks to its front suspension fork… Even with that surprise pothole (eek!).

    With a low step frame, the HSD couldn’t be easier to share, adjusting in seconds for riders 4’11”-6’5”.

    One of the cooler features of Tern cargo bikes is that they can be parked vertically and stored in compact spaces. And have we mentioned how easy the HSD is to transport inside a vehicle?

    New Features for the Tern HSD Gen 2 Electric Cargo Bike

    Rider pedaling the Tern HSD Gen 2 with an adult passenger
    The HSD Gen 2 can easily carry an adult passenger.

    The original HSD is no longer in production to make room for the new Tern HSD Gen 2 Cargo Bike. The key differences are in the new smart security features, upgraded Bosch Smart system, charging port location, and frame strength.

    Take a look:

    Bosch Smart System

    The eBike Flow app is the control center for the Bosch Smart System, on all Gen 2 HSDs, used to lock your bike and change riding modes. Also, the Flow app monitors your battery level, range, distance traveled, and keeps track of service appointments. 

    Bosch incorporates some of its best automotive technologies into the cycling industry, so you know it’s tried and true. The Performance Line motor delivers 340% pedal assistance, and the new Auto mode senses deceleration on a climb and compensates automatically with extra support.

    Smart security

    After turning off the Bosch computer, the HSD's smart lock activates automatically, which disables the motor and helps prevent theft. The system unlocks automatically once it establishes a Bluetooth connection with your smartphone.

    EasyAccess Port

    Extend your outdoor adventures with the Bosch PowerPack 545 battery. Notably, all HSD Gen 2 models have a higher battery capacity compared to HSD Gen 1 bikes, which previously used 400wh or 500wh batteries.

    After a ride, plug into the charge port, conveniently placed on the top tube, to recharge the battery without fumbling for the plug cover as on Gen 1 models.

    Stronger Frame

    The HSD’s new frame can carry an adult passenger with ease, with an increased Max Gross Vehicle Weight of 397 lbs. Every pound of that load is tested using the EFBE Tri-Test

    Enhanced stiffness also means more stability under load and better handling.

    Even after implementing the new tech, the HSD Gen 2 weight is still impressive, weighing in at 54-58 lbs (including battery).

    Tern & Bosch Safety Features 

    Frame of HSD being tested for safety and structural integrity
    Tern cargo bikes undergo rigorous testing.

    Placing your kids on the back of your cargo bike for the first time can be a bit of added stress. When it comes to Tern, we (and hopefully YOU) have confidence in their proven reputation.

    Tern’s cargo bikes are endorsed by one of Europe’s leading bicycle testing labs, EFBE Prüftechnik GmbH.

    Equally important, Bosch e-bike systems are certified to the UL 2849 standard, the most rigorous e-bike electrical test on the market. The battery, charger, motor, and display are each tested for safety against potential hazards.

    Range of Accessories for Passenger and Cargo Carrying

    Woman smiling at child passenger in bicycle seat on HSD Gen 2
    The HSD is the perfect car replacement for parents with one child.

    The Atlas H Rack, rated to 176 lbs, is standard on every Gen 2 HSD. This is an improvement from the Gen 1 HSD rear rack, rated to only 132 lbs. Plus, great news for those looking to upgrade: nearly all HSD Gen 1 accessories work with the Gen 2.

    Clubhouse Mini--The padded seat and grab bars that enclose your passenger.

    Transporteur Rack--A front rack for backpacks.

    Cargo Hold Panniers 37--Spacious bags to fit your Target run. OR,

    Storm Box Mini--As close to a trunk as you can have on a bike. Throw the groceries in and go.

    The 2023 HSD Lineup Made Shopping Simple

    While you may feel like you need a guide to eBikes at first, the new lineup of HSDs is designed to be easy to understand.

    HSD P10 Class 1 Electric Cargo Bike

    HSD P5i Class 1 Electric Cargo Bike

    HSD S00 Class 1 Electric Cargo Bike

    HSD S11 Class 3 Electric Cargo Bike

    Perennial is a great place to get your questions about eBikes answered. Our team is here to help guide you through the process of selecting the perfect eBike for your needs.

    Which one will you test ride first?

    P-class vs. S-class

    The HSD P Class bikes have all the features of above, while the S Class models offer even more sweet features. After all, the “S” in the name is for “Supreme.” 😉

    HSD S Class Features

    Cockpit of HSD Gen 2 with the Bosch eBike Flow app in use
    The Bosch eBike Flow app is the control center for the Bosch Smart System and automatically locks the motor when parked.

    Increased comfort--A Thudbuster seatpost, paired with the suspension fork, means virtually no road noise.

    Higher visibility--An ultra-bright 700 lumens Ignis Headlight with high/low beam + an always-on Rearstop Brake Light that activates when you press the brakes. 

    Smoother shifting--Enviolo + Gates Carbon Belt Drive provides a silent, smooth, and virtually maintenance-free ride. A belt drive also doesn’t require any cleaning or grease and lasts longer than a chain.

    Upgraded display--The S-Class uses the Kiox 300, whereas the P-Class uses the Intuvia 100 display.

    Additional security--The S-Class comes equipped with a motion sensor that triggers an alarm with flashing LEDs and sends text notifications with GPS tracking if someone gets handsy.

    These features are made possible by the Bosch Connect Module, which operates on its own internal battery independent of the eBike battery.

    It's worth noting that we can easily update an HSD P10 or HSD P5i with the ConnectModule to enjoy these security features.

    Conclusion

    It’s clear to see why the HSD is growing in popularity. As a bike shop in Minneapolis ranked the best metro for bicycling, we’re all about quality!

    These bikes are only available through Tern-authorized bike shops, ensuring great local service and a 10-year warranty (so you can become our new favorite “regular”).

    Send us a chat in the lower right corner with questions, or schedule a test ride now.

    Happy customers of Perennial Cycle, a Tern-authorized local bike shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota that specializes in electric cargo bikes
    Perennial Cycle is a Tern-authorized local bike shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota that specializes in electric cargo bikes.
  2. Cateye AMPP Front Light for Brompton

    What could be better than the Cateye Volt400 Brompton Light? We think a Cateye AMPP 500, 800 & 1100! The AMPPs are brighter, have better side visibility and have an equally integrated fit on your Brommie.
    Yes, we have loved the Volt400 Brompton front light, but at Perennial Cycle we recommend 500 Lumen as the minimum brightness for night riding. 500 Lumen is a good level of brightness for being seen. If you will be relying on the light to shine a path with minimal streetlights, we'd recommend the 800 & 1100 so that you SEE the potholes before you ride through them.
    Perennial Cycle is an urban shop in Minneapolis with a lot of commuting cyclists as well as a lot of potholes. This gives us a lot of expertise at setting up lights for cyclists. Our expertise with brackets and unique setups had us thinking we could likely come up with some rechargeable light solutions that would be brighter that the Volt400 Brompton front light, yet be just as clean and unobtrusive a fit to our beloved Brompton Folding Bikes. After setting up a few of these for customers, we decided to make it available for more than our in-house customers.

    All 3 models of the AMPP for Brompton fit under a front bag & none interfere with the fold

    Specs for the AMPP Lights for Brompton:

    AMPP500: 500 Lumen: 1.5hrs/high, 250 Lumen: 3hrs/low, 50hrs/flash mode (33mm wide x 25mm tall x 100mm long)
    AMPP800: 800 Lumen: 1.5hrs/high, 200 Lumen: 4hrs/low, 30hrs/flash mode (32mm wide x 24mm tall x 102mm long)
    AMPP1100: 1100 Lumen: 1.5hrs/high, 400 Lumen: 4.5hrs/low, 50hrs/flash mode (48mm wide x 26mm tall x 135mm long)

    The Cateye AMPP lights make a great choice for Brompton Folding Bikes because of their compactness. No worries about interfering with your front bag. Also, all 3 versions have excellent side visibility and offer a variety of light modes. If your daily use is less than 1-1/2 hours you can run on high beam, but if you need to squeeze the most out of the light, blink mode will get you an impressive 30 or 50 hours.

    Extra:

    If you are using a Brompton saddle (either width), you should consider the Rapid Mini rear blinky light for Bromptons. It mounts very cleanly onto your saddle. We recommend having this on your bike, no matter what other lights you are using.

    Rapid Mini Saddle Light for Brompton
    We recommend the Rapid Mini Saddle light as it is a simple way to make yourself more visible out on the roads (always a good idea).

  3. Powerbanks & Dynamo Power

    Powerbanks & Dynamo

    Using dynamo charging units to keep your devices charged up on an extended race, event or tour gets a bit tricky as there are many variables at play.
    The simplest way to be sure you will be successful is to use your dynamo generated energy to power a power bank (battery). We had 2 customers that did the 2019 Paris-Brest Paris (1200K!) and both of them used the Power Pack II to charge their GPS & phones with success.
    One of the tricky parts of using dynamo energy with devices is the constant fluctuation in power output. Many electronic devices lock onto a small trickle of power and do not take in more power when it becomes available. This leads to NOT charging the device. Some devices re-assess and take in higher levels of power when it becomes available (my iPhones have always seemed ok at this), but not all. So the only sure bet is to use a power bank that is designed to adjust intake as it is available. Not all (in fact few) power banks can handle this power management.
    The Cinq5 Power Pack II as well as Goalzero Power Banks have been specifically designed not only to accept an ever-changing flow of power, but also are capable of acting as a pass-through. This means that the power bank can be used to charge a device at the same time that it is being charged.

    We do a lot of dynamo lighting setups at Perennial Cycle. We have customers using dynamo power to light up their way home from work, keep them well light and fully charged on massive road rides, heading into the woods bike camping or cross country touring.
    Lights for dynamo are pretty straight-forward and info can be found HERE.

    Personally I've used the Plug III as well as the Igaro D2 Pro R2 to charge a few different iPhones over the years with great success, but how successful you are at charging a device with dynamo charger will depend on the amount of daylight you have (dynamo chargers do not charge AND run your lights), the device you are charging and the speed you ride at.
    If you have time, it is best to do a fair bit of testing.

  4. Rechargeable Front Lights for Brompton Folding Bikes

    Night Shot

    While we are huge dynamo lighting fans at Perennial, we understand that it's not always the right choice. USB rechargeable lights are very impressive thanks to advances in battery & LED technology. If your Brompton is going to be used for transportation, whether you are riding in your home turf, or you are traveling, lights are a must for riding at night. And who wants to be limited to riding during daylight hours).

    Here are some options that we sell to Brompton customers

    Cateye Volt400 for Brompton

    Cateye Volt400 for Brompton
    The Volt400 comes with a bracket that positions the light very cleanly above your front wheel. This kit is fully compatible with all Brompton front bags.
    While we like this light for it's tidy fit on the bike and it's ability to make sure you are seen in traffic, it's not bright enough for all conditions.
    Its biggest shortfall is availability. If we have it in stock and you like it, don't waste time getting it in your hand as it is challenging for Brompton (and us) to keep it in stock.

    • • • •

    Cateye AMPP for Brompton

    Cateye AMPP for Brompton
    The AMPP for Brompton fits the light nicely under the front bags and above the front wheel.
    The options of 500, 800 or 1100 lumens make this headlight very appealing to anyone needing to increase their visibility as well as spreading a brighter, broader light in front of them. Like the Volt400, the AMPP series is USB rechargeable.


    • • • •

    Busch & Muller Ixon Core
    The Ixon Core is our only rechargeable with a mirrored beam that shines the road with a nicely spread pattern yet doesn't shine in the eyes of oncoming riders and drivers.
    A handlebar bracket mounts to the bars and the light slides on and off this bracket. The Brompton can be folded with the light still attached to the bars (all types), though the folded package will be a touch wider until you remove the light from its bracket.


    • • • •

    Light & Motion Urban 500
    The Urban 500 is a light with great optics and at full power it can guide you through unlit streets. In more lit conditions you can dial back the power and use less battery consuming power settings.
    The super grippy mounting strap is easy to wrap the light onto the bars and hold the light securely enough to the bars to hold steady beam on the bumpy trails. Mind you, it's plenty stretchy to have some give if you bump it hard.


    • • • •

    NightRider Swift 300
    At 82 grams with 5 light modes and a run time from 2 all the way to 27 hours, this economical rechargeable light gives a lot of bang for not so many bucks. The Swift 300 is also very compact, so whether your Brommie is folded or unfolded, the light is not going to cause any problems.


    • • • •

    NightRider Lumina Micro 650
    The Micro 650 is a bit larger than the Swift 300, but still a nice tidy package that fits very well on all the Brompton handlebars. A good and strong light with a great beam pattern to keep you comfortable pedaling even on the downhills.


    • • • •

    Light & Motion Vis 360 Pro
    This helmet light can be your one light, or it can complement lights on your bike. The Vis 360 Pro includes a front light, rear light and mounting hardware to easily set it up on your helmet. The USB rechargeable battery is integrated into the rear light. I like this light because it allows me to point it directly at drivers so I can know if they see me (or not).
    Also it puts the light as high as possible which will help with visibility of all drivers.


    • • • •

    We have used a wide variety of lights with our Bromptons over the years. We certainly appreciate the Volt400 with its Brompton mount, but we also recognize that while mounting a USB rechargeable light to the handlebar isn't quite as clean, it is equally useful when it comes to shining the road ahead. The Cateye AMPP series is a welcome addition and with it's 3 models, you should be able to match the brightness needed for your riding conditions.


    BTW: If you are using a Brompton saddle (either width), you should consider the Rapid Mini rear blinky light for Bromptons. It mounts very cleanly onto your saddle. We recommend having this on your bike, no matter what other lights you are using.

    Cateye Rapid Mini for Brompton

    Rapid Mini Saddle Light for Brompton
    We recommend the Rapid Mini Saddle light as it is a simple way to make yourself more visible out on the roads (always a good idea).

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