Towing a Trailer with the Tern GSD Gen 3 Family Cargo eBike
Heads up!
This article mentions third-party trailer hitches that are not manufactured by Tern. Please note that hitch designs might change, and that their manufacturers may choose to maintain the same product name even after the design has changed.
For your safety, always consult with your bike dealer, or with the bike trailer manufacturer or reseller, to make sure you have the right components to safely tow your trailer.
This article focuses on the GSD Gen 3. If you own a Gen 1 or Gen 2, be sure to explore our towing guides for those bikes.
The GSD Gen 3 is an electric cargo bike that meets your family’s evolving needs. While it can already carry hefty loads on its rear rack, it is also more than capable of towing a trailer for recycling trips, extra big shopping, or moving homes. And yes, you can tow an (e-)bike, too! Here’s how you do it.
Contents
TowBar
What is the TowBar?
The lower rear bars on your GSD frame come with integrated mounting points and are collectively known as the TowBar. This design feature makes towing a trailer super simple.
Where is the TowBar located?
The TowBar is located on the rear of the GSD, above the attachment points of the lower decks. It includes a series of three holes that can be used to mount different types of trailer hitches. It looks like this:
TowBar location on the GSD Gen 3
What trailer hitches are compatible with the TowBar?
We have tested and can recommend the following trailer hitches for the TowBar on the GSD Gen 3:
- Weber EH Hitch (SKU: KU.02.000.12)
- Burley Steel Hitch (SKU: 960116)
- Thule Axle Mount ezHitch Cup (SKU: 20110720)
You don’t need an adapter for any of the brands mentioned above, but you may need additional nuts and bolts, depending on what comes in your trailer package.
Can I use panniers or other accessories while towing a trailer with the TowBar?
Yes—the Cargo Hold 37 Panniers (and other smaller panniers) are compatible with the GSD when installed in the frontmost position.
However, note that accessories such as the Cargo Hold 52 Panniers and Storm Box are incompatible with the TowBar, as they block the mounting holes on the bike frame. This means they would also hinder the use of the TowBar for towing trailers.
Tail Hitch L
What is the Tail Hitch L?
If you want to tow a trailer and still be able to use accessories like the Cargo Hold 52 Panniers or the Storm Box, then the Tail Hitch L is the accessory for you. The Tail Hitch L is a Tern accessory that moves the trailer mounting points further away from the bike, allowing you to tow a trailer AND use lower deck accessories at the same time—which is something that can't normally be done if you use the TowBar. It looks like this:
The Tail Hitch L installed on the GSD Gen 3
What trailer hitches are compatible with the Tail Hitch L?
We have tested and can recommend the following bike trailer hitches for the Tail Hitch L on the GSD Gen 3:
- Weber EH Hitch (SKU: KU.02.000.12)
- Burley Steel Hitch (SKU: 960116)
- Thule Axle Mount ezHitch Cup (SKU: 20110720)
You don’t need an adapter for any of the three brands mentioned above, but you may need additional nuts and bolts, depending on what comes in your trailer package.
How much weight can the Tail Hitch L handle?
We worked with EFBE, a global leader in bicycle testing, to rigorously test the GSD’s TowBar and the Tail Hitch L. This ensures they are safe and reliable for towing up to 60 kg (132 lb), including the trailer weight and any passengers or contents.
Can I use panniers or other accessories while towing a trailer with the Tail Hitch L?
Yes! The Tail Hitch L makes it possible to use some lower deck accessories while towing a trailer on the GSD, including the Cargo Hold 52 Panniers and the Storm Box.
Bike Tow Kit
What is the Bike Tow Kit?
The Bike Tow Kit is an adapter that helps you securely tow a kid- or adult-sized bike to your GSD. The Bike Tow Kit lets you bring a bike even if accessories like the Cargo Hold 52 Panniers or the Storm Box are installed. It also keeps the towed bike away from the passenger(s), meaning they will have more space to travel comfortably. This is what the Bike Tow Kit looks like:
Bike Tow Kit parts
How do I tow a bike using the Bike Tow Kit?
Step 1: Install the Tail Hitch L
The Bike Tow Kit requires the Tail Hitch L on your GSD.
Step 2: Install the Bike Tow Kit
To install the Bike Tow Kit on the Tail Hitch L, carefully follow the user manual.
Step 3: Attach the bike to the Bike Tow Kit
In short, you will need to remove the towed bike’s front wheel and attach its front fork to the Bike Tow Kit. Please follow the user manual.
The Bike Tow Kit and Tail Hitch L
What is the maximum weight of the towed bike?
The Bike Tow Kit has been rigorously tested by EFBE, a worldwide leader in bicycle testing, to ensure it’s safe and reliable for towing bikes that weigh up to 30 kg (66 lb).
Can I carry passengers and cargo while using the Bike Tow Kit?
You sure can! The Bike Tow Kit lets you tow a bike and use key GSD accessories—like the Storm Box, Cargo Hold 52 Panniers, Stow Decks, and more—at the same time.
HEADS UP!
When towing a bike and carrying a passenger at the same time, NEVER carry the passenger on the towed bike.
Important Safety Notes
EFBE-Tested for DIN 79010
The GSD Gen 3’s frame and fork meet the DIN 79010 safety standard for a 210 kg (463 lb) weight limit, ensuring it is as safe as it is fun to ride. Always stay within your bike's Max Gross Vehicle Weight (MGVW), which includes the bike, trailer, accessories, cargo, passenger(s), and rider. The only exception is if your trailer has a separate braking system.
Follow the Trailer Manufacturer’s Safety Guidelines
Always follow the trailer manufacturer's safety guidelines for proper installation and usage, and always consult with the bike trailer manufacturer or reseller to ensure your trailer setup is safe.
Account for the Extra Weight When Towing
Always be extra careful when riding with a trailer, whether you’re carrying passengers or cargo. Exceeding the trailer's weight limit or using it in ways it wasn't designed to be used may pose a serious risk, and should be avoided.
Note
This article on trailer towing, along with other guides and how-to articles on this site is intended to serve only as a helpful resource for Tern bicycle owners. They are for informational and educational purposes only and should be used at your own risk. Consult with your authorized Tern dealer for professional advice and assistance specific to your bicycle.
