Tern BYB P8 (Gen 1) review

Full review

The BYB P8 is Tern's ultra-compact folder and the bike here that arrives most completely equipped. Tern fits a Metro Transit rack with built-in spinner wheels, SKS fenders, a deluxe centre kickstand, a chainguard and a brass bell, so there is little to buy afterwards.

The frame uses Tern's TriFold design, which folds in three places to a package of 35 x 81 x 52 cm. That is much shallower than the 20 inch bikes with a single hinge, and the rack wheels let you roll the folded bike along a platform instead of carrying it. The compromise is time: Tern quotes about 30 seconds, three times as long as the Link D8.

The drivetrain is an eight-speed Shimano Alivio with an 11-32 tooth cassette and a 52 tooth chainring, giving 31 to 91 gear inches, a bit more range at both ends than the Link. Schwalbe Citizen tyres on 20 inch wheels carry puncture protection and reflective sidewalls.

The real cost is weight. At 14.3 kg it is the heaviest bike in this comparison, so you will want to roll it rather than lift it up stairs. It suits commuters who carry a laptop or shopping every day and want one tidy, ready-to-ride package. If you mostly lift the bike, the lighter Link D8 or Brompton is easier.