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How to Carry Cargo on the HSD Gen 1

Updated on 

This article refers to HSD Gen 1 bikes. If you'd like to carry cargo on the HSD Gen 2, click here.

The HSD may be smaller than the GSD (and virtually all cargo bikes), but it can still haul a surprising amount of stuff. With a maximum gross vehicle weight (MGVW) of 170 kg (374 lb), it’s more than capable of handling daily errands and weekend excursions.

We’ve created an ever-growing ecosystem of accessories to help you handle the load, including racks, bags, baskets, panniers, and lots more. In this article, we’ll explain how to make the most of your cargo-carrying options for the HSD.


What is Max Gross Vehicle Weight?

As we mentioned in the intro, the HSD has an MGVW of 170 kg.

Max Gross Vehicle Weight (MGVW) is the maximum weight that a bike has been designed to safely carry. This means the weight of the Bicycle* + Accessories + Rider(s)** + Cargo + Trailer*** must be less than the MGVW for safe riding. 

*Bicycle = Refers to weight of the bike plus battery(ies)

**Rider(s) = Refers to weight of the cyclist and any passengers

***Trailer = Refers to weight of the trailer with no braking system AND weight of any cargo or passenger(s) on the trailer. Trailers with a braking system should not be included in the MGVW calculation.


How much cargo can I carry on the HSD?

Maximum Rear Rack Weight

The HSD’s rear Atlas H Rack has a maximum weight capacity of 60 kg.

The Atlas H Rack is pretty tough, but it’s also bolted on (as opposed to frame-integrated, like with the GSD). So, it’s important to make sure the combined weight of your passenger, rear cargo, and any rear rack accessories is under the 60 kg limit.

Maximum Accessory Weight

Each accessory you add to your bike has its own maximum weight capacity, which may be lower than the HSD's rear rack limit, for example. Please make sure to follow your accessory guidelines.

Total Cargo Weight

Mass Gross Vehicle Weight of HSD

To determine the maximum cargo weight you can carry on the HSD, use the formula above. The HSD has a MGVW of 170 kg (375 lb). From that, simply subtract the weight of the HSD and any installed accessories, and the weight of the rider and any passengers on the HSD. 

If you are towing a trailer, don't forget to also subtract the weight of the trailer and any cargo or passenger(s) on the trailer. Please note that trailers with independent braking system should not be included in the MGVW calculation. 

Guideline for Comfortable Riding

Although the HSD has a very high MGVW for a bike its size, you might find the bike pretty difficult to ride if you load it right up to its limit.

We suggest limiting your passenger and cargo's combined weight to no more than 80% of the rider’s weight. We find that’s the ratio where most folks can still ride well and control the bike.


Should I carry cargo on the front or the rear of the HSD?

Both! The front Combo Mount lets you attach racks and more, while the rear rack offers tons of flexible options.

While you can use both ends of the bike for cargo, the rear rack can handle substantially more weight than a front frack. So, in general, it’s best to load your heaviest cargo on the rear of the bike and put lighter cargo in front.


What are some best practices for loading cargo?

  • A low center of gravity is key for safe and easy handling. Place heavier items on the bottom of racks, panniers, baskets, and boxes.
  • Make sure the cargo is balanced evenly on your bike. Avoid putting all of your heavy items on one side of the bike.
  • Ensure that items are firmly secured to the bike. Use Batten Straps or Bungee Straps to tie down loose items and prevent them from moving around or falling off the bike during transport.
  • Accessories have their own maximum capacities that are separate from the bike’s carrying capacity. Pay attention to this when loading cargo.

Can I use trailers with the HSD?

Yes! Using a trailer is your best option when you want to haul something that won’t fit on the HSD.

Every HSD has a dedicated trailer hitch mount built right into the frame. It’s compatible with trailers that use a Weber EH coupling, with no adapter needed. With adapters, you can also attach Thule and Burley trailers.


Outfitting Your HSD

Rear Cargo Accessories

Clubhouse Mini

The Clubhouse Mini creates a mini cargo cabin on the back of the HSD. Fill the 400 x 400 mm interior space with your own box or crate, or add the Soft Crate Mini for a perfect fit.


n/a

502 × 532 × 243 mm

Cargo Tray

The Cargo Tray creates a strong, generously sized cargo platform atop the HSD’s rear rack. The L-shape is perfect for hauling XXL stuff that won't fit in a crate or basket.


30 kg

458 × 396 × 172.5 mm

Shortbed Tray

The Shortbed Tray is a heavy-duty rear rack that you can mount parallel or perpendicular. Fits standard 600 x 400 mm Eurocrates and coolers.


35 kg

446 × 627 × 81 mm

Storm Box Mini (with Clubhouse Mini)

When combined with the Clubhouse Mini, the Storm Box Mini transforms the rear of the HSD into a roomy weather-protected bucket with a lockable lid.


40 kg

100 L

475 × 460 × 550 mm

Captain’s Chair + Joyride Bars

The Captain's Chair combined with the Joyride Bars may be a passenger solution, but you can use the same setup to carry crates and boxes. There’s room for a box about 320 mm wide (box length and height depends on your exact setup).


n/a

533 × 565 × 257 mm
(Captain's Chair only)

Front Racks

Transporteur Rack

The Transporteur Rack is a modular front cargo carrier that fits a 300 x 400 mm Eurocrate, a standard crate of 20 beers, or a recycled wooden box.


20 kg

430 × 420 × 267 mm

Hauler Rack

The Hauler Rack is an open-ended rack that is big enough to carry bulky cargo but small enough to let you easily maneuver the bike.


20 kg

320 × 315 × 215 mm

Bags & Panniers

WeatherTop Bag

The WeatherTop Bag is a rugged and waterproof 45L carryall made to go from your rack to your shoulder in seconds. Fits perfectly on the Hauler and Transporteur Racks.


15 kg per pannier

45 L

400 × 300 × 350 mm

Cargo Hold 37 Panniers

Your hardworking basic. You can use cargo Hold 37 Panniers as a roll-top or in Bucket Mode for oversized cargo. Fidlock® buckles make opening and closing a snap.


15 kg per pannier
(30 kg per pair)

37 L per pannier
(74 L per pair)

435 x 310 x 30 mm (folded)
Cargo Hold 28 Pannier and a child seat on HSD

Cargo Hold 28 Pannier

A rolltop and waterproof-lined pannier with a weather-resistant exterior for your daily haul. Opens with a Fidlock® magnetic buckle for zero-fuss access. Compatible with a child seat when you take your kid with you on a quick errand.


9 kg

28 L

330 × 200 × 310 mm

Soft Crate Mini

The Soft Crate Mini is a removable cargo carrier that fits inside the Clubhouse Mini. Carries up to 37 L of whatever and doubles as a dog carrier (add the Dog Roof Mini).


37 L

405 × 405 × 220 mm

RidePouch

The RidePouch stores ride necessities such as a chain lock or water bottle. It attaches to bottle cage mounts on a Tern accessory and doesn’t take up space on the handlebar or handlepost.


1.2 kg

1 L

105 × 85 × 180 mm

For Stability

DuoStand

The DuoStand is a sturdy, height-adjustable dual-leg kickstand for the HSD that provides extra stability when loading and unloading. Highly recommended for heavy cargo.


60 kg

55 × 270 × 350 mm

Lockstand Extensions

If you need to carry an XXL load with your panniers stuffed full, you can add the Lockstand Extensions to the DuoStand to make it even more stable (the Lockstand itself can't be installed on an HSD).


n/a

110 × 57 × 31 mm
per pair

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