This article refers to HSD Gen 1 bikes. If you have a different HSD generation, 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 (375 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 the weight of the bike plus battery or batteries
**Rider(s) = Refers to the weight of the cyclist and any passengers
***Trailer = Refers to the 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
To determine the maximum cargo weight you can carry on the HSD, use the formula above. The HSD has an 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 an 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 rack. 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 Gen 2
The Clubhouse Mini Gen 2 is a versatile carrier that turns the rear of the bike into an enclosed cargo space for groceries and daily hauling. An opening side rail allows easy loading and adds flexibility when carrying passengers.
n/a
n/a
Fits 400 × 400 mm box
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 × 400 mm Eurocrates and coolers.
35 kg
446 × 627 × 81 mm
Storm Box Mini Gen 2 (with Clubhouse Mini Gen 2)
Combine the Storm Box Mini with the Clubhouse Mini Gen 2 to transform your bike’s rear into a roomy, weather-protected bucket for shopping, sports gear, or everyday hauling, now with updated side panels for easier cargo access.
Max 20 kg on each side
96 L total
590 × 490 × 600 mm
Captain’s Chair + Sidekick Joyride Bars
The Captain's Chair paired with the Sidekick Joyride Bars is not only a passenger cabin, but also a setup to carry crates and boxes. There’s room for a box about 320 mm wide (box length and height depend on your exact setup).
n/a
582 × 532 × 400 mm
(Captain's Chair only)
Front Racks
Hardshell Hauler
The Hardshell Hauler is a hard-shell cargo carrier that keeps belongings clean and dry. The enclosed, waterproof shell protects against rain and dust, so you can carry essentials without crates, straps, or extra hassle.
Max 15 kg
26 L
410 × 410 × 272 mm
Transporteur Rack
The Transporteur Rack is a modular front cargo carrier that fits a 300 × 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
WeatherTop Cooler
The WeatherTop Cooler is an insulated cooler bag with an airtight, waterproof design to keep your drinks cold and your food fresh for longer. With an FDA-approved, BPA-free liner, rest assured that direct contact with food is worry-free.
15 kg
26 L
320 × 670 × 370 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 × 310 × 30 mm (folded)
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 Gen 1. 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. A must-have for carrying cargo or a passenger.
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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