BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Urban transportation specialist Tern has unveiled the BYB, an ultra-compact bicycle that introduces a ‘whole new way to fold’.
It is 30% smaller than typical 20in folding bikes, Tern has said, and is the brand’s smallest yet.
“The BYB is the culmination of four years of focused work by the team,” stated Josh Hon, Tern team captain. “We had to develop some radically new technology for this bike and the manufacturing tolerances are, in the words of our factory partner, ‘tighter than automotive’. But we’re excited because new folding bike paradigms only come along every few decades or so, and we think the BYB falls into that milestone category.”
The BYB has rack-integrated spinner wheels and stands upright within easy reach. It folds and fits into its own specially-designed hard-shell suitcase, the AirPorter Slim, and it also has the stiffness and durability of the DoubleDeck frame design. In addition to its own accessory line, it is compatible with a range of Ortlieb and KLICKfix panniers and bags.
“We spent a lot of time debating wheel size at the start of the project,” Hon continued. “Some argued for using a smaller wheel which of course results in a smaller folded package. But smaller wheels come with a compromise in ride quality. In the end, ride quality won out because if we and our customers are going to be on a bike, putting in miles day in and day out, it has to ride well.
“Some people might find it a bit surprising that we’re launching a non-electric bike since the trend is going to electric. But we see micro-mobility as a continuum of different types of trips and different sorts of mobility options. An e-bike lets you do the entire trip by bike and skip cars and public transport. But for many people, public transport is still the fastest and most cost-efficient option, and all they need is a last mile mobility device to get them to and from the station.
“Others might work in a city centre that is car-restricted. For such short trips, people don’t need electric — they need a mobility device that packs small and isn’t a hassle to move and store. Hence the BYB.”
The new BYB lineup includes two models, the BYB P8 starting at $1,295/€1,195, and the BYB S11 at $2,495/€2,295. The first production run has already rolled off the assembly line, and the first bikes will arrive in stores in July. Interested riders can check with their local Tern dealer for delivery updates.
