Thank you for choosing Tern, and congratulations on your new GSD cargo bike! We’re happy to support you throughout your journey. This article covers the GSD Gen 3 with Bosch eBike Systems 2 and will help you get familiar with its features so you can start riding with confidence. If you’d rather watch a walkthrough, check out our Owner Briefing video on YouTube .
1. Introduction
2. Adjusting the bike fit
3. The Bosch eBike System 2 on the GSD
4. Important bike parts and functions
5. Daily riding checklist
6. Accessories
7. Ready to get stuff done?
1. Introduction The GSD Gen 3 with the Bosch eBike System 2 includes P-Class models. While they all offer the same stylish comfort, there are key technical differences to consider.
2. Adjusting the bike fit 2.1. Adjusting the saddle height To adjust the saddle height, open the quick-release levers on the seatpost. With the Telescopic Seatpost, each section can be extended up to the minimum insertion indicator marked on the tube. Be sure not to exceed these markings, as doing so may compromise safety and stability.
Once you’ve set the right height, close the levers securely. Adjust one section at a time for easier setup. If the seat moves, the clamp may be too loose. Tighten it using the clamp screw nut.
2.2. Adjusting the Andros Stem The GSD comes equipped with an Andros Stem, which allows you to easily adjust the handlebar position for a more comfortable ride. To adjust the Andros Stem , raise one lever at a time, position the stem and handlebar as desired, and close both levers firmly.
3. The Bosch eBike System 2 on the GSD 3.1. The GSD is a pedelec Before you go out and about on your GSD, we’d like to remind you that the GSD is a pedal-assisted electric bicycle, which is pedelec for short. This means that the Bosch motor will only provide power while you pedal. The motor will stop providing power once your local speed limit has been reached.
3.2. Display and control unit The GSD with the Bosch eBike System 2 comes with the Purion display, which you'll use to control the bike's functions. The Purion display has four buttons: the power button, the plus (+) and minus (-) buttons, and the Walk button.
Getting started : Press the power button to turn the system on and off. Ensure your feet are off the pedals when turning the system on to avoid any unexpected acceleration.Changing between the four assist modes : The plus (+) and minus (-) buttons allow you to switch between the modes: Eco, Tour, Sport, and Turbo.Essential data at your fingertips : The display provides useful information such as speed, trip, range, and battery level. To go through this information, press and hold the (-) button.Automatic energy-saving shutdown : If the bike and display are idle for more than 10 minutes, the system will automatically shut down to save energy.More details: A Guide to Bosch Purion Display Settings
3.3. Integrated lighting system To turn the lights on or off, press the light button on the left side of the handlebar. This will switch both the front and rear lights on or off. The brake lights will light up automatically whenever you brake, regardless of whether the main lights are on or off.
3.4. Battery and keys Your GSD comes with a Bosch battery and charger.
3.4.1. Installing the battery To install the battery, align it with the battery mount and press down until you hear a click. The system will work regardless of which mount you insert the battery into. If one battery doesn’t provide enough range for you, the GSD’s DualBattery setup allows you to add a second battery for extended range.
More details: Contact your Tern dealer
3.4.2. Removing the battery To remove the battery, use the key provided with your bike to unlock it from the mount.
3.4.3. Keys and serial number Your bike comes with identical keys to unlock both the battery and the frame lock. The key stays in the frame lock after unlocking and while riding, so it’s always easy to find and won’t get lost. For safekeeping, we recommend emailing the key serial number to yourself and registering your keys with the lock manufacturer. They will need this serial number to order the replacement key for you. In addition, when you sign up for Tern Care , we recommend entering your key serial number as part of the registration process.
3.4.4. Charging the battery You can charge your battery either on or off the bike. Make sure the system is turned off before charging, and make sure there’s no moisture around the socket area.
A) Charging the battery ON the bike
Open the rubber lid on the battery mount, plug the connector into the socket, and then plug the charger into an electric outlet. The display will show that the battery is charging.
B) Charging the battery OFF the bike
Insert and turn the key in the lock to release the battery. Lift the battery out of the mount. Plug the charger directly into the battery to begin charging. Safety Tip
Please remember to always remove the key from the lock after inserting the battery to ensure it doesn’t get disconnected and that no one removes it when you’re not around. To learn more about (maintaining) your battery, check out our eBike manual , this article on how to care for your Bosch battery , or visit our Support Site .
3.5. Walk Assist The GSD has a handy Walk Assist function, which helps you push your bike easily when going uphill or carrying heavy cargo.
A) Before activating Walk Assist
Ensure the bike is in one of the four e-assist modes. Walk Assist will not activate if the motor system is set to "Off."
B) To start and stop Walk Assist
Press the "Walk" button at the bottom of the Purion display remote. When "Walk+" appears on the display, press and hold the (+) button to engage the walk assist.
4. Important bike parts and functions 4.1. Changing gears 4.1.1. P10 The P10 comes with a trigger shifter. To shift to a lower gear, push the lever closest to you. To shift to a higher gear, either push or pull the lever farther from you. The gear indicator will show which gear you're in.
4.1.2. P00 If you're on the P00 , your bike comes with the Enviolo Twist Shifter, which features a continuously variable gear range. This means that you have a range of gears instead of a fixed number. Twist the shifter forward or backward until you find the pedaling resistance that feels right. Make sure to ease up on the pedals or stop pedaling when shifting, as the Enviolo hub isn’t designed for shifting under load. The great part about the Enviolo system is that you can change gears while at a standstill, making it easier to get going again.
4.2. Brakes Your GSD is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear for reliable stopping power.
From the rider’s perspective, the rear brake lever is on the right, and the front brake lever is on the left. In some countries, this might be reversed, so it’s a good idea to double-check before your first ride if you're unsure.
Safety Tip Be mindful that pulling the brakes too suddenly can be dangerous, especially in wet or slippery conditions. It's best to apply steady, even pressure to both brake levers when stopping.
4.3. Frame lock Your GSD also comes with a frame lock on the front wheel, which is super useful for quick stops. The key for the lock is the same one used for the battery. The key stays in the lock after unlocking and while riding. To engage the lock, turn the key and slide the knob down until you hear a click. Once you hear the click, you can remove the key. If the lock isn’t fully engaged, you won’t be able to pull the key out.
4.4. Atlas Lockstand The GSD comes with a locking kickstand, called the Atlas Lockstand. The kickstand stays locked in place until you release it, so you won’t have to worry about the bike tipping over by accident. To unlock it, push down on the lever on the left side of the handlebar.
4.5. FlatFold You can make your GSD more compact by folding down the handlepost, which is handy for fitting it into a car or storing it in a small space. We call this the FlatFold mode. To do this:
Open the Andros Stem levers and adjust the handlebars so that the brake levers are pointing upward. Close the Andros Stem and rotate the front wheel 180 degrees counterclockwise. Then, release the lever on the handlepost to fold it down and secure it with the rubber strap. Finally, lower the saddle. Watch how to FlatFold here
4.6. Vertical parking and rolling Your GSD can be parked and rolled vertically, which can come in handy for maneuvering or parking in tight spaces. The rear of the bike has contact points that keep it safely standing upright on flat surfaces.
Learn how: How to Vertically Park Your Tern Bike
5. Daily riding checklist Before heading out on your ride, there are a few key things to check to ensure your bike is in top shape. These include tire air pressure, brakes, battery levels, chains and cables, and quick-release points.
More details: What to Check Before Each Bike Ride
6. Accessories The GSD really shines when paired with our wide range of Tern accessories. Whether you're picking up groceries or taking the kids to the park, we’ve got accessories for nearly every situation.
Keep in mind that the GSD has a maximum gross vehicle weight of 210 kg (463 lbs). This includes the weight of the bike, accessories, riders, cargo, and trailer, all of which must be under this weight for safe riding. The rear rack of the GSD is rated for 100 kg or 220 lbs, so you can carry one adult or up to two kids.
To safely carry a passenger, please always follow the Tern Passenger System, which includes a dedicated seat, hand grips, fixed foot support, and foot and leg protection. You’ll need the right accessories for each part except for foot and leg protection, as the GSD has an integrated wheel guard.
Learn more:
7. Ready to get stuff done? We hope that the above information can help you get started and get stuff done on your GSD. Remember that you can always check the GSD QuickStart Guide or visit your Tern dealer if you have any questions.
If you'd like to share your experiences, join us at the Tern GSD Facebook group , as we’d love to learn about your adventures!