Tern Link D8 Gen 5 - 26.7-Pound Folding Bike

Tern Link D8 Gen 5 is a 20-inch folding bicycle with an aluminum frame, eight-speed gearing, and a compact folding format. The US model weighs 26.7 pounds and has a 10-second folding time, giving the bike a defined role for city riding and mixed transport.

Compact Folding Format

The bicycle folds to 15 by 31.1 by 28.3 inches, according to Tern's US specifications. Its one-size frame accommodates a suggested rider height of 55.9 to 74.8 inches.

Tern lists a maximum rider weight of 231.5 pounds and a maximum gross vehicle weight of 264.6 pounds. The folded dimensions and weight are published as standard model specifications, and the manufacturer notes that racks and fenders may not be included in those measurements.

Eight-Speed City Drivetrain

The Link D8 uses a 1 x 8-speed Shimano drivetrain with a Claris rear derailleur and an 11-32T cassette. The gear range is listed at 33 to 87 gear inches, while Schwalbe Big Apple tires measure 50-406 and include puncture protection.

The aluminum Tern Link frame uses an OCL+ joint, and the integrated fork is made from high-tensile steel. Equipment includes folding alloy pedals, RP Chromeplastic fenders, a Deluxe LED rear light, a Tern Loader Rack, and a Magnetix 2.0 folding lock system.

Price And Practical Position

Tern lists the Link D8 at $999 as a sale price in the United States, while the regular price shown by an independent US bicycle retailer is $999. The model is positioned below larger cargo-focused folding bikes and above basic compact bicycles that use fewer gears or omit rack and fender equipment.

The New York Times Wirecutter described the eight-speed Link D8 as responsive, with gearing suited to most cities, and measured a 30.9-pound bike weight against the manufacturer's stated 26.7 pounds. Its measured folded size was 30 by 28 by 15 inches, making the bike heavier and less compact than some smaller-wheel alternatives.

Who The Link D8 Fits

The Tern Link D8 fits riders who need a full-size riding position with a folding frame, eight gears, and included carrying equipment. The stated rider-height range of 55.9 to 74.8 inches covers a broad adult range, while the 231.5-pound rider limit defines the usable load boundary.

Compared with a smaller-wheel folding bicycle, its 20-inch wheels and 50-406 tires provide a different rolling format, while the 26.7-pound listed weight makes carrying part of the ownership equation. The bike is best understood as an urban folding bicycle with rack and fender equipment, not as a lightweight travel bike.

Specifications At A Glance

The Link D8 combines an aluminum frame, a high-tensile-steel fork, Shimano eight-speed shifting, and a 10-second folding time. Its strongest practical distinction is the combination of 20-inch wheels and commuter equipment in a single folding design.