Test Tern Vektron P9: Little space in the city? A compact e-bike could be the solution. The 2018 Tern Vektron P9 turns small wheels and a simple folding mechanism into a real miracle of space.
Tern Vektron P9 – Compact bike for commuting?
If traffic experts dream of e-bikes, then surely of models like the Tern Vektron P9. It couldn't be more practical: No bike can be accommodated in such a space-saving way as a 20-incher, none fits as well in buses and trains and thus enables the "modal chains" that could get more and more people away from the car. And when it comes to storage, a compact e-bike has advantages: With its short wheelbase, you can also get it down narrow, winding basement stairs; thanks to the swiveling handlebars and removable pedals, it is so narrow that you can safely park it in the hallway without creating a narrow space. The comparatively low weight of around 23 kilos is an additional plus when it comes to handling. The folding mechanism is also pleasing, because unlike many folding bikes it is really easy to use: simply open the handy hand lever and you can fold the two halves of the Tern together; now all you have to do is slide in the saddle and fold down the handlebars. With a little practice this can be done in a few seconds.
Tern Vektron P9 - Great driving characteristics despite small wheels
The only question is why the compact class plays such a subordinate role on the market. Did the traumatically bad folding bikes of the 1970s perhaps burn into the collective cyclist psyche? Talking to potential buyers shows that many cyclists do not trust the bikes with the small wheels to have adequate riding characteristics. Wobbly, insecure – that is a prejudice that is often heard, but it is no more than that. On the contrary, when you sit on the Tern for the first time, you will notice its great stability. Nothing wobbles or sways; the long handlebar mast and the "double telescopic" seat post are by no means uncomfortably flexible. Of course, the great agility of the Vektron is unusual. In order to achieve a compact folded size, the wheelbase has to be short; especially the distance from the bottom bracket to the front wheel axle is tight. The Tern steers more like a racing bike than a touring bike - and that appeals to sporty cyclists who are happy about the greater maneuverability in everyday traffic compared to a 28 touring pedelec. The voluminous tires ensure that the dynamics are not neglected - they iron out many a pothole and prevent the ride from feeling bumpy. The Tern also cuts a fine figure as a family bike; the simple height adjustment and the length and angle-adjustable stem allow easy adjustment to body heights from under 1,50 to over 1,90 meters. It can even be used as a touring bike with a maximum permissible system weight of 120 kg and the solid luggage rack.
Tern Vektron P9 - Inexpensive alternative with Bafang drive
In any case, the 2018 Tern Vektron P9 is an indication that demand for 20-inch bikes is growing. In the past model year, the bike was still available exclusively with a Bosch motor for 2-inch models.999 The test bike, on the other hand, is a full €400 cheaper with the Bafang drive (while the new Bosch model with ten-speed derailleur gears will cost €3.399), making it more attractive to a wider customer base. The bike is still not a bargain, but that's not to be expected given the various special parts. Headlights, attachments, saddle – all of these are specifically tailored to the compact bike and are not off-the-shelf products. The two-legged kickstand is also a special folding bike component: It ensures that the folded bike can be parked safely. The nine-speed derailleur gears and disc brakes are solid, if not exactly premium, Shimano standards; with just over 400 watt-hours, the battery is also quite capacious and good for multiple commutes, even if they involve typical everyday stop-and-go traffic. The drivetrain is overall pleasing; its performance hardly differs from that of other mid-drive motors. One might miss a centrally positioned display, but in city traffic you shouldn't stare at the speedometer for too long anyway.
Manufacturer link: www.ternbicycles.com
