Tern Vektron Folding Electric Bike Review | New Motor and Updates!

[@Propelbikes]

Thanks so much for watching! If you're interested in learning more about this bike, check out the link in the video description. 🚲

[@Showboatride]

In my opinion the best thing Tern can do with this folding model is release an internal hub with a belt drive and front suspension version. A folding Enviolo HSD basically. Im not sure i believe Terns developers when they say its not possible. If they work together with Bosch then it can happen. Who wants to carry around a oily chain and big hanging derailleur system. The electric folding bike scene will explode. Just saying.

[@balazspetho5636]

Belt drive should be mandatory on folding bikes...

[@dudesayHEY]

You should check the Gocycle G4i it's the only bike that comes close. Sadly the Gocycle doesn't come with fenders and a rack

[@Showboatride]

@@dudesayHEY i had a G4 but didn’t like the riding position like the Tern handlebars can give you a more upright wide bars. Also the fact that its still limited in practical accessories let alone the lack of mud-flaps unless you pay extra add on of course.

[@danik7484]

2 years later, still waiting for a tern vetron with a belt drive and internal hub and front and suspension.... come on tern, many of us want to give you our money

[@lonestarlaurel]

And another couple - few K smackers. Don’t fret, they do have a bike for you, too!!

[@francispereira2296]

I am in the UK. I noticed that you rate the Riese & Muller highly and so seem to have good judgement on quality. Your positive review on Tern is the top reason for me to put an order on it sometime this week. Thanks for your informative video.

[@HansGutbrod]

super explanation -- not living in the US, so not likely to become a customer, but really appreciated the way you walk us through the details, as I am close to buying this, and your explanation has given me lots of extra insight. Thank you!

[@trevormurray1085]

Awesome to see this update, but I’m still dreaming of a compact 28 mph Bosch-powered bike. Would love if Tern had offered the option to upgrade to the Performance Line Speed. With Riese & Müller dropping that option from the Tinker, Tern could easily capture that portion of the market. Still, great to see they’re willing to give more power to the Vektron. I might still wait another generation to see what’s next.

[@Propelbikes]

Trevor, I think you have a good point. I hope we see something soon in this space. I’m optimistic

[@noisycarlos]

I second that. I'd love a foldable mid drive. But on the streets I ride, most cars do around 22-25mph, and keeping up with them is a big safety factor.

[@davoncci]

@@noisycarlos Thank you. That's why I had to go for a class 3 bike.

[@nija1976]

I’ve been waiting years for something like this too. I’d add belt driven, internal hub, full suspension to the hs folder.

[@SkiVail]

It’s 2023 and Tern has still not released a folding ebike like the Vektron with a class 3 motor like the bosh performance line speed… It’s inexcusable!

[@noisycarlos]

Man when they make them class 3, they'll be perfect. I'd be happy with 25mph. Traffic around my area moves around 22-24mph. So 20 is just slow enough to have the cars get desperate and zoom by you.

[@xinisteris]

Hi Cris what shoes are you wearing in the video? It looks like they have a quite stiff sole.

[@TCtbOMC]

Great video! I am seriously considering this bike for commuting. I know you mentioned that Tern has described challenges with providing a belt drive option. Have there been any changes on that front since this video was posted? Is adding a belt drive something Propel can try to manage as an aftermarket option? Thanks!

[@risenshine2783]

The best review of the Tern Vektron I have found, am thinking of getting one, many thanks.

[@lonestarlaurel]

Excellent informational video. Important details necessary to making a decision. This Tern bike hits all the right buttons and then some. Gratitude here. 🥳🎶

[@rosariopassaretta6692]

Great Video Chris, but would be useful to see a comparative between the active line plus and the performance line to see in reality if it's worth the upgrade. Thanks

[@Propelbikes]

Thanks! I appreciate it! I think for most the Active Line will be fine, but if you have big hills or you just want some extra power, the Performance Line is a good way to go.

[@lindaweaver6801]

I might have missed it in the video. How much does this bike weigh?

[@Propelbikes]

The Vektron is 48 lbs.

[@julienlepiece2219]

What is the brand (new balance??) and model of your shoes? They look so cool! 😃 nice bike by the way! I just bought a GSD and love it! Thanks for the videos.

[@bebopkirby]

Most of the ebikes that I’ve picked up in stores are gut busting heavy. They seem to be a good fit for walk out suburban garages, or weightlifter types. So the question becomes if one has the space of a garage, does one really need the bikes folding ability.

[@dtloken1983]

FWIW I have a Gazelle Ultimate T10+ that probably weighs upwards of 65-70 pounds with bags/locks, etc. and while it's not ideal the walk assist is enough to push it up the stairs with minimal effort (even when loaded with groceries!) into my 1920s midrise apartment building, and then rolled into the elevator to my floor. But yes, simply rolling it out of a garage would be a whole lot more convenient.

[@Jolly198217]

Do you know when Tern does Updates to the new Bosch smart system?

[@souhail8398]

How resistant is the power pack against rain? I was wondering because of the bad weather we often have in here. What if I park it somewhere or ride it when it's raining? I hope I won't have to be taking the battery inside anywhere I go. Thanks a lot for making these videos!

[@Propelbikes]

These bikes are actually surprisingly very water resistant. I wouldn’t recommend submerging them in water but heavy rain and that sort of thing is really no issue. I think if you’re consistently having the bike and very heavy rain you could add some precautionary measures like dialectical grease on the connectors, but I would say overall they could handle the weather really well.

[@econ6610]

Just got one. What a beast

[@kldstl]

What if you wanted a internal gearbox like a enviolo or nexus with a chain?

[@stefaniep2725]

I was expecting the same. Disappointment.

[@souhail8398]

Take a look to the HSD P9.

[@kldstl]

@@souhail8398 I guess I'll have to. I was really looking for something that could fit in my trunk. I have a compact.

[@simon_wolf_]

I can get my HSD into the back of my 2017 Ford Fiesta with the back seats down and the passenger seat fully forwards. It’s a snug fit but they will go into fairly small cars.

[@kldstl]

@@simon_wolf_ That's awesome. Thanks Simon. I'll go with the HSD.

[@stevebrown6122]

Thank you for this informative video. I need to ride upright to protect my neck. I'm 6'1" with long legs, 35" inseam. Will the longer stems work for me? If so, I'm getting one!

[@barriewylde5915]

love you vectron it does it all..🚲🇨🇦

[@risenshine2783]

How can you put a dog house mini on the back rack?

[@miata1370]

Chris.....While I've been able to test ride the Vektron, I do not have a Riess & Mueller dealer anywhere near me. How would you compare the ride quality and stability of the Vektron to the R&M Tinker? I have found the Vektron somewhat "twitchy" in its steering. Would I find the R&M Tinker, or perhaps the Tern HSD S8i a better handling e-bike?

[@Propelbikes]

Sorry about the delay! It's been a rather busy few months, but I'm working on getting caught up. I think adjusting the handlebar position can help with this. The suspension also helps with stability.

[@miata1370]

@@Propelbikes Thanks Chris...While the R&M Tinker interested me, could not find one nearby to test and frankly, the $$$ were significantly more than the Vektron Q9 I did purchase...and have since put 350+ miles on it. Part of the twitchiness I initially noticed is something I've gotten a bit used to...amazing how a bike feels after being absent from one for 50+ years! I find the Vektron a joy to ride, the Bosch motor really makes hills and wind a non-concern. Thanks for all your info and support of e-bike cycling. Have learned much viewing your videos!

[@Propelbikes]

Nice! Enjoy it! They are awesome!

[@haniffhaniff5764]

how easy is it to roll the bike when it is folded? i heard in another review that it is quite hard

[@janebowen2112]

I bought this bike in August and only done 199 kilometres on it. I’ve kept it in my house and never been out in the rain. I’m not using it and want to sell it so where is the best place to sell please. I’m thinking of buying a generation 3. in the summer .

[@Jesco93]

Great Entry level Ebike!

[@drrobotnikmeanbeanma]

Do it come w a speedometer ? I'm want a ebike that I can have about 3 spare batteries that I can easily take the battery out and put another battery in and I can put a tannus tire on them so I don't ever get a flat I want a ebike that don't have fat tires because them fat tires won't fit on the bus rack.26" wheels can and 27" can but not fat tires I tried to put a fat tire on the bus rack. And may you give me the wheel size or rim size incase they make Tannus Tires for them ?

[@souhail8398]

Unfortunately here in Belgium, the model with the performance line motor is €800 more expensive than the version with the active line plus. The price increase is too high for the upgrades in my eyes.

[@mithuharjani3620]

Hello, I love how you describe and explain each step of the bike, i understand perfectly. I would like to know if I can get this electric bicycle in Spain, especially in the Canary Islands, greetings 😊

[@Nohandlebarshere]

I'm looking for for a folder for fast train/bike trips in EU. In 2023 is anyone doing better than the S10 yet?

[@Rimkus23]

Hi Chris! Great video again! This Vekton S10 with the new motor makes me reconsider my will to buy the hsd P9... plus it’s foldable, that’s nice for Paris. I have a question though, is the Hauler (front) rack we use to see on the hsd is compatible with this vektron ? Thank you !

[@21dirtyj]

This is awesome Works great is it a store easy to clean

[@enckil]

Thank you for this great review! It really helps :). May I ask some advice here ? I am currently hesitating between the HSD P9 and the Vektron S10. The S10 is 300 euros more in the shop (3699), but according to spec it is 3kg lighter, a wee bit shorter, and has a performance motion vs active line for the P9. I don't care for the folding that much but the motor and ligntess (I will need to carry it up one flight of stairs) are big plusses. On the other hand, the P9 seems to be a smoother ride with suspension and form factor. Do you have an opinion by any chance ? I could test drive the S10 but sadly not the P9 that is in back order.

[@miata1370]

Philippe - I was in a similar situation several months ago...debating between the HSD and Vektron here in the U.S. I'm a "senior citizen" and wanted to get back into cycling for some exercise and just to enjoy the outdoors a bit more. I liked that it would be possible to get a HSD with the Gates belt drive system and it had a suspended front fork. The Vektron's lighter weight ( as you mentioned) and it's folding feature was a key aspect for me as it would allow me to transport it in our vehicle without incurring the added expense of purchasing a trailer hitch and bike rack. Test ridden back to back, I found the HSD to ride more smoothly, but the Vektron felt more engaging or sporty to ride. I ended up with a Vektron Q9 and have not found the chain drive to be concerning after some 350+ miles of riding; I've cleaned/lubed the chain twice in this timeframe. I'm very happy with my purchase. Good luck in your decision!

[@humbertozea1498]

Thanks for the video! Does anyone knows if you can remove the seat and the post?

[@Propelbikes]

You definitely can!

[@jamesharrison7114]

I wish that Tern would do the Eclipse D16 ebike. I would be all over that.

[@Propelbikes]

This would definitely be an interesting setup. I wonder if they will ever do something like that.

[@hsueh1021]

Great review!

[@Propelbikes]

Thanks!

[@erikkison]

I really like this bike. How often do you need to change the break pads on these breaks?. Are peddles foldable? Is it possible to put the bike on side?

[@miata1370]

I can address a couple of your questions as I've recently purchased a Vektron Q9. Here in the U.S. the right side pedal is removable making it easy to lay the bike on its right side for transport. I have only 350 miles on my Vektron...so I'll be listening too for the answer about brake pad expected life.

[@manuellliguichuzca6034]

Very nice bike 👌

[@Propelbikes]

It sure is!

[@Weichi928]

Don’t be surprised if you get a call from a movie producer. I detect a lot of screen mojo in your presentations. I can imagine a movie called ‘The Cyclist’ where the hero, you, goes after bike stealers, chasing them with his electric bike and sending them to prison. Sort of a cycling 007. Maybe even put a cape on and there, we have a super-hero, the saviour of his bike community. Oops, I guess my imagination is running away on me... Fun, fun these e-bikes. All the pleasure, none of the difficulties. Thx again for these presentations.

[@Propelbikes]

Lol! Definitely gave me a nice chuckle this morning. Thanks for your comments and your fun creative energy!

[@grouchydude3448]

You didn’t mention the top speed, weight, or price....3 very important bullet points that should be mentioned in every review!

[@Propelbikes]

Not sure what happened there, but the bike has a top speed of 20mph, it weighs 48lbs and there are two versions, one is $3200 and the other $3700

[@yogeshnaik9276]

Very nice 20" n upgraded torque Bosch...due to folding arrangementsl led compromise suspension n stiffness

[@sturdeehouse]

How tall are you just out of curiosity? I am just trying to gauge how height the handlebars are the position you have them in. There are no bikes to test at the moment in the UK, so any little bit of info helps.....

[@Propelbikes]

I’m 5’9” with a 30.5” inseam

[@sturdeehouse]

@@Propelbikes That's really useful to know thank you

[@rolandodeloy8428]

Is there any full suspension with this kind of bike?

[@Propelbikes]

Unfortunately there is not. You can add a suspension seatpost though

[@nancylindsay4255]

@@Propelbikes Sadly, not if you're very short and need to have the seat as far down as it will possibly go (and another three inches if that were possible!).

[@Tazdeviloo7]

Luna Eclipse by Luna Cycle is a full suspension fat folder

[@drewyager4020]

What side would you lay it on if you were to put it in a trunk of a car?

[@johngilman760]

I lay my Tern in the trunk with the handle bars facing up/

[@kengruz669]

In general, whatever the bike one might be laying flat, don't lay it on the side with the derailleur.

[@RB-sr1oc]

Very informative video. I am extremely please with the Active Line Plus motor on my Gen 2 Vektron. I think it has plenty of power for a class 1 bike with 20 inch wheels. But moreso it gets really good range and is the quietest Bosch motor I have or have tried. In fact with about 1,000 miles on my bike it is mostly silent.

[@Propelbikes]

Thanks! The Vektron has been great since the beginning, but I agree the Active Line Plus is a great motor. I think the Performance Line will be good for those that need a little extra power.

[@firefly4704]

RB, have you had the chance to use yours on steep hills? If so, is the Active Line Plus motor up to the challenge?

[@RB-sr1oc]

@@firefly4704 No. Pretty flat where I live. I think it would do ok for a rider of my weight - given that I rarely use the upper assist levels. But haven't tested so that is only an assumption.

[@lnewbyliveca]

I want one, will pick it up next spring

[@Propelbikes]

Nice choice 👍

[@aswang78]

I think u better order it now. I heard waiting time is the problem.

[@3yearsinthemaking]

I hope this will be available in the Philippines 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

[@Propelbikes]

I hope so too! I would love to ride one there. 🤞

[@johnhodge1263]

@@Propelbikes is this bike updated to belt drive??

[@BeingVeganllc]

Bro on the timeframe section you labeled as price you literally said nothing about any price

[@wisdomgleaned]

Thank you

[@Combat556]

How was the stand over height for you in that 53cm frame? This 53cm medium size frame stands pretty tall at 864mm per Gazelle frame spec chart.

[@Propelbikes]

The 53cm is pretty tall. I have a 30" inseam and although I don't really have much clearance I feel pretty comfortable on in. The mid step would give a proper standover, but I wouldn't have a big issue getting a 53cm standard frame.

[@nancylindsay4255]

@@Propelbikes How does the standover height (and minimum seat height) on this model compare to my older Vektron S-10? I need it a few inches shorter. At 4'9" I'm seriously on the lookout for a great electric bike that will fit me better so that my 68-year-old osteoporotic self can get on/off and stop/start up more safely.

[@rolandodeloy8428]

Whats the price please?

[@Propelbikes]

This one starts at $3200

[@JulieR888]

Can a trailer to carry dog or light camping gear be hitched to this bike? If so, how? Thank you!

[@5DNRG]

What a disappointment! This beauty has everything I want in a great folding bike EXCEPT the critical (for me!) component, front suspension fork. Pls add one, if poss...

[@ArnoldWinters]

What’s the price?

[@Propelbikes]

More info at: propelbikes.com/product/tern-vektron/ but the Q9 is $3200 and the S10 is $3700

[@miata1370]

@@Propelbikes Recent increases now Q9 is $3,499 and the S10 is $3,999 per my local Tern dealer..darn that Supply/Demand thing ;-)

[@Propelbikes]

It’s actually not the supply thing, tariffs also have an impact here.

[@brattingprincess]

@@Propelbikes F. Isn’t Tern a TAIWANESE company?

[@Propelbikes]

They are. Some of their parts come from China though.

[@econ6610]

I wish they make it using titanium and 10kg lighter

[@leojonkers3181]

The motor is very nice, I bought a second e-bike, a Stella (Dutch bike, www.stella.nl/elektrische-fietsen/p/livorno-premium-mdb-si/?) 1 1/2 week ago with the same Bosch Performance Line. Same derailleur also. 2900 dollar with 500 watt battery. My old Sparta have a classic motor, so I went from 40NM to 65NM. That new motor feels very nice, is quiet. I do not have a folding bike, but that can be a big benefit. We can take a folding bike in the train for free. Store it is easy. A internal gearbox looks more easy on a folding bike. Little expensive bicycle I must say. But is looking good build, like the luggage rear rack, nice you can get a higher steering position, again the motor is só nice!

[@Propelbikes]

Thanks Leo! The new motor is really nice.

[@derrekb4501]

At $4200 it won’t be for the masses

[@carmenlucia492]

Plegada está muy grande

[@Propelbikes]

lo es, pero hay pocas bicicletas plegables de mayor calidad

[@猫ノリ]

ほしい

[@negativentry]

I be honest video > 5min. i skip