Tern Launches New Large-Wheel Urban Bike Platform

Urban transport specialist Tern Bicycles today introduced its new Node bike platform designed around the 507 mm tire size. Node bikes deliver the ride quality of a full-size bike while still packing small for convenient transport and storage.

“Most folding bikes on the market feature smaller 16″ or 20″ wheels,” stated Eric Lin, Tern senior product manager. “These bikes can fold really small, and if you do a good design job, the ride quality can be great. But the handling is still different from a traditional full-size bike. We’re a bit greedy — we wanted big bike handling with a small-wheel fold — so we developed the Node. Riders get the best of both worlds.”

Node bikes can be folded in under ten seconds and, with Tern’s N-fold technology, have the same footprint as most 20″ wheel folding bikes. The Node’s larger wheels and stiffer frame better accommodates big and tall riders. The bikes are designed for riders of up to 115 kg (254 lb) and 195 cm (6’5″).

Designed to help connect the transport dots, Node bikes are made for urban transportation and incorporate all the details that might be expected: fittings for mudguards and racks, dynamo light options, Reflex tires with puncture protection, and ergonomic grips. Some models even get the award-winning BioLogic PostPump 2.0 seatpost, a seatpost with an integrated high-capacity floor pump. Node bikes are perfect for bridging the first and last mile between the park-and-ride, subway, or bus line.

Two Node models are available:

Node D7i

The Node D7i is everything a rider needs for urban transport. It uses the dependable Shimano 7-speed internal gear hub for low maintenance. Fully equipped, it comes with mudguards, rack, chain protection (for trousers or dresses), dynamo-powered light, and BioLogic PostPump 2.0 seatpost.

MSRP: €800-900 (US$950-1,050) (with options)

Node D8

The Node D8 is designed for all-purpose urban transport. The bike features an eight-speed Neos low-profile derailleur drivetrain and is easily customized for weather protection and cargo capacity.

MSRP: €650-700 (US$700-750) (with options)

The Node D7i and Node D8 will be shipping in the fourth quarter of 2013.