Aventon vs Tern: Comparing Versatility, Power, and Features
December 17, 2024
Trying to decide between Aventon vs Tern for your next ebike purchase? We’ve done the hard work for you by researching various models and pitting them head-to-head. Spoiler alert: Aventon offers a better range of options to accommodate more versatile lifestyles. Plus, Aventon’s ebike models have additional features you won’t find on Tern bicycles.
Here, we’ll compare Aventon vs Tern to help you find the best ebike including:
Key Differentiators
Aventon | Tern | |
PriceYour budget is a big consideration when purchasing an ebike. But you don’t have to shell out big bucks for a quality ebike. Balance the features you want with the amount you’re willing to spend. | Aventon ebikes range from $1,199 to $2,899 MSRP, offering a price point for just about everyone | Tern ebikes are more expensive, with models on this list ranging from $3,199 to $6,499 MSRP |
Motor PowerYour ebike’s power comes from a motor and battery system. With a variety of options, you can choose a bike with a more powerful motor to handle steep inclines or one with a lower-powered motor to get more exercise. | Aventon bike models feature motors ranging from 350 watts to 750 watts, letting you choose the right option for your needs | All Tern ebikes on this list are powered by Bosch motors with 250 watts of power |
ThrottleTake a break, but keep things moving with the convenience of a thumb throttle. Accelerate with little effort from a dead stop and slow down without having to downshift. | All Aventon models have a throttle | No Tern models have a throttle |
Theft Deterrent FeaturesEbikes can be a big investment. Protect yours by choosing a brand that offers features like GPS tracking and alarms so you always have peace of mind when you lock your bike up after a big adventure. | The Aventon Abound SR has security features including 4G GPS tracking, geofencing, a built-in alarm system, and smart-locking kickstand to deter theft | While most Tern ebikes on this list have a lock, the Quick Haul doesn’t. Only the Orox S12 and HS S00 have an alarm and GPS tracking, but you have to pay for a subscription to get access to these safety features |
BatteryNot all ebike batteries are the same. High-quality options will meet safety certifications, and they’ll be installed in a way that protects them from the elements. | All Aventon ebikes have batteries that are UL-certified and integrated into the bike frame to protect them from the elements | All the Tern ebikes on this list have external batteries that are more susceptible to damage |
WarrantyBuy an ebike and get peace of mind with a warranty. The costs of servicing your ebike can add up quickly, making this a key spec to evaluate. | Two-year warranty | One- to five-year warranty, but … The warranty differs depending on if you choose an ebike model designed for riding only on pavement or on pavement and maintained gravel/graded roads. Components on the bike that aren’t made by Tern are covered by a separate manufacturer’s warranty, if any. Tern doesn’t cover these third-party components under their limited warranty |
Integrated Front and Rear Lights w/ Built-In Turn SignalsSafety technology helps you ride with confidence by providing clear communication whether you’re riding in the bike lane or on dirt trails, day or night. | 6 out of 7 models have integrated front and rear lights and 5 of those 6 models also have built-in-turn signals: Aventure.2 Abound Soltera.2 Sinch.2 Pace 500.3 | All of the Tern ebikes on this list have front and rear lights, but none of them have built-in turn signals |
DisplayDisplays don’t have to be limited to simple riding metrics. More advanced designs from brands like Aventon can sync to apps, connect with friends, and unlock a points reward system to get more savings. | Full-color display w/ app sync capabilities and built-in USB port for charging devices | The Orox S12, HSD S00, Vektron Q9, and GSD S10 all have a color display, but the NBD S5i only has a monochrome display. Tern doesn’t offer a proprietary app, and only their bikes with Bosch motors can be synced to the Bosch ebike Flow App. |
Aventon Aventure.2 vs Tern Orox S12
The Aventon Aventure.2 comes out on top as the better off-road ebike. With a 750-watt motor, it has 200% more power compared to the Orox S12’s 250-watt motor. The Aventure.2 can also be used as a class 2 or class 3 ebike, while the Orox S12 can only be used as a class 2 ebike. The S12 has 2.6-inch wide all-terrain tires, but the Aventure.2 handles tougher terrain like snow, mud, and ice with ease thanks to 4-inch wide fat tires, which offer better traction and control.
Aventure.2 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 400 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,999 MSRP
Orox S12 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 91 or 200 miles, depending on battery selection
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 462 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $6,499 MSRP
The Aventure.2 takes things further with a design and features that the Orox S12 doesn’t have. The Aventure.2 is more suitable for shorter riders, fitting cyclists as short as 4’11” compared to the S12’s 5’1” height minimum.
The Aventure.2 also has integrated turn signals to improve safety and pairs with the Aventon app so you can get better insights on your riding data. While the Orox S12 can pair with the Bosch app, Tern doesn’t offer their own app. Both bikes have color displays, but only the Aventure.2 has an integrated USB port for charging devices.
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Aventon Abound vs Tern HSD S00
While both the Aventon Abound and Tern HSD S00 have four pedal assist levels, hydraulic disc brakes, and rear racks, the Abound comes out on top as the better electric cargo bike for several reasons. First, the Abound can carry 11% more weight with a total payload capacity of 440 pounds compared to the HSD S00’s 397-pound maximum. Second, the Abound has a more powerful 750-watt rear hub motor compared to the HSD S00 motor, which is just 250 watts. Plus, the Abound costs about 64% less than the HSD S00.
Abound Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 50 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,999 MSRP
HSD S00 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 76 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 397 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $5,499 MSRP
The Abound also boasts additional features that make riding more enjoyable—features that the HSD S00 is missing. The Abound has a dropper seatpost to easily adjust rider height. Plus, it has integrated turn signals for better visibility and boasts an integrated storage bag for easy access to your gear.
The Abound also offers better design and construction, with some cyclists complaining about maintenance issues on the HSD. The Abound has an integrated battery that’s protected from the elements, while the battery on the HSD S00 is external and more susceptible to damage.
The HSD S00 has a continuously variable (CVT) gearing system rather than fixed gears, which can lead to difficult shifting under loads and more wear and tear. In contrast, the Abound has a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain that gives you full control.
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Aventon Sinch.2 vs Tern Vektron Q9
When it comes to crowning a folding ebike winner, the Aventon Sinch.2 beats out the Tern Vektron Q9. The Sinch.2 can carry 9% more weight, and it has features like a thumb throttle that make riding more fun. While both bikes have front lights and brake lights, only the Sinch.2 has integrated turn signals for improved safety and visibility. And with the Sinch.2, you get all of this and more for almost half the price!
Sinch.2 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 55 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,699 MSRP
Vektron Q9 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 35-70 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 275.6 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $3,199 MSRP
While both bikes have fenders, the Sinch.2 is better suited for riding on off-road terrain thanks to its four-inch wide fat tires that have a larger contact patch to increase grip and traction. The Vektron Q9 only has 2-inch wide tires. The Sinch.2 also has a front suspension fork with up to 45mm of travel, while the Vektron Q9 doesn’t have any suspension.
How Fast Does the Tern Vektron Q9 Go?
The Tern Vektron Q9 has a maximum speed of up to 20 mph, making it a class 2 ebike.
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Aventon Level.2 vs Tern NBD S5i
When it comes to commuting, the Aventon Level.2 is the better bet since it has enhanced functionality and costs 52% less than the NBD S5i. The Level.2 has a 500-watt motor, delivering twice as much wattage as the NBD S5i’s 250-watt motor. It has five levels of pedal assist compared to the Tern’s four pedal assist modes, giving you even more control over your pedaling efforts.
Level.2 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,899 MSRP
NBD S5i Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 32-74 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 309 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $3,999 MSRP
The Sinch.2 also excels when it comes to tech features. It boasts a full-color LCD display with a USB port to charge up your devices. The NBD S5i only has a monochrome display and no charging port. The Sinch.2 display also connects with the Aventon app to provide more detailed riding stats and connect you with other Aventon riders—the NBD S5i display doesn’t have any app connectivity.
What Is the Weight Limit for the Tern NBD?
The weight limit of the Tern NBD S5i is 309 pounds.
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Aventon Abound vs Tern GSD S10
In a head-to-head match-up of cargo ebikes, the Aventon Abound is the better hauler compared to the Tern GSD S10. It has a 750-watt motor that’s 200% more powerful than the GSD S10’s Bosch cargo line motor, which delivers 250 watts. Both bikes can haul heavy loads weighing up to 440 pounds, but the Abound offers more storage space and solutions for increased versatility.
Abound Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 50 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,999 MSRP
GSD S10 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 121 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $4,499 MSRP
The Abound features a storage bag that’s integrated into the bike frame, streamlining the design and offering more cargo options. A high-quality, center-mounted kickstand makes loading the bike easy since it won’t topple over to the side. Built-in passenger footboards make riding more comfortable for passengers, and the rear rack is compatible with a range of panniers, baskets, and seats for versatility.
The Abound was also designed with safety and longevity in mind. It features a bike battery integrated into the frame to protect it from rain and sun. The GSD S10 battery is external, meaning it’s more exposed to the elements and damage from bumps and dings.
What Is the Difference Between Tern HSD and GSD?
While both the HSD and GSD are cargo ebikes, the difference is that the Tern HSD is smaller and more compact, and the GSD is larger. The HSD is better suited for riders carrying small loads, while the GSD is ideal for cyclists who want to carry multiple small passengers. The GSD has a higher payload capacity, stronger motor, and an optional dual-battery system.
How Many Children Can Fit in the Tern GSD?
The Tern GSD can accommodate one to two children depending on the seat attachments and the child’s weight. The Aventon Abound is designed to fit up to two children, typically between 5 and 10 years old, with a maximum weight of 143 pounds.
How Much Can Tern GSD Carry?
The Tern GSD can carry up to 440 pounds total. This includes the rider weight and any additional cargo.
How Heavy Is a Tern GSD?
The Tern GSD bike weight varies depending on the model. The Tern GSD S10 weighs 74 pounds, the Tern GSD S00 weighs 78 pounds, and the Tern GSD R14 weighs 82 pounds. The Aventon Abound weighs 82 pounds.
What Is the Top Speed of the Tern GSD S10?
The Tern GSD S10 can reach a top speed of up to 20 miles per hour. That makes this a class 2 ebike. The Abound is also a class 2 ebike with a top speed of up to 20 mph.
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Aventon Abound SR vs Tern Quick Haul D8
The Aventon Abound SR is the top utility bike compared to the Tern Quick Haul D8, thanks to a higher payload capacity and added theft protection features. The Abound SR has a maximum payload of 440 pounds compared to the Quick Haul D8’s 331 pounds, letting you haul 33% more gear. Plus, the Quick Haul has no theft deterrent components while the Abound SR has a built-in lock, 4G GPS tracking, geofencing, and an e-lock kickstand and alarm system.
Abound SR Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,899 MSRP
Quick Haul D8 Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 33.6 to 65.2 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 331 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $2,499 MSRP
The Abound SR has specs to ensure your ebike is safe when you’re not riding it. Use the geofencing capabilities to define where your bike is allowed to go and control distances. If you need to immobilize the bike, you can easily do so using the remote lock feature.
The 4G GPS tracking tool lets you keep tabs on your ebike, and you can quickly lock the kickstand using the mobile app or bike display. Create a custom passcode to ramp up protection, and enjoy the all-new keyless battery that lets you hop on and off without having to fumble for keys.
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Aventon Abound SR vs Tern NBD P8i
The Aventon Abound SR also beats out the Tern NBD P8i due to its extensive list of theft deterrent features, a higher payload capacity, and better price point. The NBD P8i only has a frame lock — no additional features like the GPS tracking, geofencing, and alarm system that the Abound SR has. It can carry up to 440 pounds, which is 131 pounds more than the NBD P8i’s 309-pound weight capacity. Plus, it’s 41% more affordable, costing $1,899 MSRP compared to the NBD P8i price tag of $3,199 MSRP.
Abound SR Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 440 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,899 MSRP
NBD Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 34 to 67 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 309 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: One- to five-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $3,199 MSRP
The Abound SR has more motor power with a sustained output of 750 watts compared to just 250 watts on the P8i’s 250-watt Bosch motor. The Tern has a keyed lock—so you’ll have to dig for the keys if you want to lock the battery—while the Abound SR has a remote lock with passcode and built-in alarm feature. The Abound SR has better technology with a full-color LCD display (compared to the P8i’s gray display) and remote lock and geofence capabilities along with GPS tracking, all things the NBD is missing.
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Aventon Ramblas
Tern doesn’t offer a true electric mountain bike (eMTB), but Aventon’s range meets the needs of riders with more versatile lifestyles. Mountain bike riders will love the Aventon Ramblas, an eMTB with 100 Newton-meters of torque and a 250-watt motor that can deliver up to 750 watts of power. A front suspension fork with up to 130mm of travel absorbs impacts, and hydraulic disc brakes give confidence when slowing down on inclines.
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 80 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: No
- ✓ Price: $2,899 MSRP
The Ramblas also boasts tech features that you won’t find on any Tern bikes. It includes Ride Tune, which allows cyclists to customize assistance, max torque, and pedal response. It also receives over-the-air updates, so you don’t have to plug your ebike in or go to a shop to run the latest software.
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Aventon Soltera.2
Another ebike model that’s missing in the Tern lineup is a road bike. Aventon delivers the goods with the Soltera.2, a lightweight ebike built for urban agility. Weighing just 46 pounds, this ebike is nimble and quick with a top speed of 20 mph. The aerodynamic frame is powered by a 350-watt motor to give you enough juice to charge up steep hills but still enjoy the fun of pedaling.
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 46 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: On demand
- ✓ Price: $1,199 MSRP
The Soltera.2 meets the various needs of your lifestyle. Use the thumb throttle to take a break from pedaling and switch between four levels of pedal assist to get the support you want. Integrated lights and turn signals keep you visible, whether you’re riding through traffic on your commute or enjoying a weekend ride up a mountain pass.
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Aventon Pace 500.3
Another Aventon model that can’t be missed is the Aventon Pace 500.3, a cruiser ebike that offers more versatility than tern’s lineup—which doesn’t have any cruiser ebikes. This ebike features a 500-watt motor and 614-watt-hour battery that delivers a range of up to 60 miles without having to reach for the charger. The step-through frame and swept-back handlebars provide an upright riding position so you can enjoy the adventure.
Highlighted Specs:
- ✓ Battery range: Up to 60 miles
- ✓ Torque sensor: Yes
- ✓ Payload: 300 lbs
- ✓ Warranty: Two-year warranty
- ✓ Throttle: Throttle on demand
- ✓ Price: $1,799 MSRP
The Pace 500.3 features four levels of pedal assist and an adjustable stem that allows you to control comfort and how much effort you put in. Puncture-resistant tires offer peace of mind, while integrated turn signals improve safety. The full-color LCD display easily pairs with the Aventon app to provide riding stats and more functionality—like connecting with other riders in your area.
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Choosing an Ebike Between Tern vs. Aventon
If you’re deciding between Aventon vs. Tern, take a closer look at the specifications of the ebikes you’re considering. Aventon offers more ebike models for different riding styles compared to Tern, which is missing models in the mountain bike, cruiser, and road bike categories.
Aventon also offers better technology, higher motor power, and improved safety features you won’t find on Tern bikes. Check out these best ebikes to find the Aventon model that suits your riding style and preferences. You’re sure to find one that ticks all the boxes on your must-have features list.