Hello Tern Crew Department and Forum Members
After much consideration, I decided to buy a Verge Duo to commute to and from work and to just cruise on. What sold me was the 2 speed hub; I just had a question. At what speed does the Verge Duo switch to a higher gear? I was hooked on the Dahon Mu UNO, until I accidentally ran across one of your Tern bikes on YouTube; and I'm hooked. Is there any chance you can do a video review of the Verge Duo on YouTube? I'm looking to buy the Duo at the end of this week, I can't wait. Please let me know what speed it changes gears in? Thanks in advance.
P.S. Does anybody in the forum own the Verge Duo? Please tell me more about it. My main concern is what speed does the bike change gears in? Are they tough to fold? Easy to ride? I never owned a folding bike so I'm just flooded with questions. Thanks in advance?
I've been meaning to post since I bought a Verge Duo for my wife this Christmas. The shift is around 8 MPH. I can't remember the exact number, but Josh posted it on the forum somewhere. I do not have a computer on the bike, so I can't tell you exactly what the shift speed is. For my tastes, the shift speed is low. But the bike isn't for me and my wife is fine with it where it is. I imagine most serious riders would want the shift speed higher, but the general population who the bike is specified for will find it perfect the way it is.
Folding is easy. Seriously easy. Not having cables on the handlebar makes it easier than other models.
The ride is very good. There is nothing in the ride to remind you are on a folding bike. There is no noticeable flex in the handlebars or frame. The small wheels are very responsive and that is your only clue to the size of the bike.
The bike is well specified as it sits. The seat and grips are supportive and comfortable. Just add whatever commuter options you need (racks, lights, etc). If you want to save weight, replace the seatpost pump with a regular post. But I like the convenience of having the pump always on hand.
The styling of the bike is really stunning. It is a real looker. The Links are nice, but the Verges take it to a whole 'nother level.
I like that my wife and I can both easily ride the bike. Just change the seat height. Sunday night I stashed it in the trunk of our Civic hybrid, drove to the dealer and left the car there while I cycled back home. (The car is getting a new high voltage battery under warrantee - Yay!) Not many bikes would fit in that little trunk!
Anyway, you will love the bike. It is hard to describe the pleasure of riding a bike you do not have to think about. You just get on it and go. This bike is perfect in so many ways.
Cheers!
Ian Overholt