A Whole New Way to Fold a Bike: Tern Launches the Ultra-Compact BYB

Taipei, May 29, 2019 — Urban transportation specialist Tern today unveiled the BYB, an ultra-compact bicycle that introduces a whole new way to fold. The BYB is 30% smaller than typical 20" folding bikes, and is Tern's smallest yet. The bike transforms into a small and slim package with one of the smallest folded footprints on the market—but still offers a surprisingly solid ride.

A Whole New Way to Fold a Bike: Tern Launches the Ultra-Compact BYB

"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."

In addition to its ultra-compact folded size, the BYB has a number of important features.

Ready to Roll

Fold a typical folding bike and you need to carry it to move it anywhere—not fun in large train stations. The BYB has rack-integrated spinner wheels, and stands upright within easy reach. Wheeling the folded BYB on crowded subway platforms or rolling it into an elevator—all while holding a cup of coffee in the other hand—works just like trolleying a suitcase.

Tern BYB

AirPorter Slim

 

Ready for Departure

With the BYB, a whole new world of flying with your bike becomes possible (and easy). The bike folds and fits into its own specially-designed hard-shell suitcase, the AirPorter Slim. Sixty seconds and your bike is packed and protected for your next flight—no tools or disassembly required.

A Better Ride

With 20" wheels, the BYB has a natural advantage over folding bikes with smaller wheels. Add the stiffness and durability of the DoubleDeck frame design, a comfortably long cockpit, and premium componentry—and you have a better ride.

All the Right Gear

A bike designed for commuting should let you bring your stuff, whether that's a change of clothes, workout gear, or your laptop bag. In addition to its own accessory line (see below), the BYB is also compatible with a range of Ortlieb® and KLICKfix® panniers and bags to help you carry more.

"We spent a lot of time debating wheel size at the start of the project," stated Hon. "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," continued Hon. "But we see micro-mobility as a continuum of different types of trips and different sorts of mobility options. An ebike 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 center 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."

Tern BYB

The new BYB lineup includes two models: BYB P8 starting at $1295/€1195, and BYB S11 at $2495/€2295. 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.

---

Visit www.ternbicycles.com/byb for more information.