Cargo Bike
Tern Short Haul D8
D8The non-electric compact cargo that keeps things simple
by Tern
$1,075
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35.5lbs
Weight
308.6lbs
Max load
110.2lbs
Cargo
The Carryish Take
A cargo bike for $1,075 that weighs 35 lbs and needs zero electricity — the Short Haul D8 is Tern's argument that not everything needs a battery. It carries 110 lbs of cargo on an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, which is plenty for a week of groceries or one kid in a seat. Where the RadWagon 5 asks $2,000 and 75 lbs for its electric approach, the Short Haul asks only that you have functioning legs and a relatively flat commute.
Bottom line: The Short Haul D8 proves cargo bikes don't need batteries — just smart engineering.
Best for
- Urban riders in flat cities who want cargo without e-bike complexity
- Apartment dwellers who need to carry bikes upstairs
- Budget-conscious families replacing short car trips
- Fitness-focused riders who see cargo hauling as a workout
- Bike shops or delivery services wanting lightweight utility bikes
Not for
- Hilly terrain riders — get the Yuba Spicy Curry with motor assist
- Two-kid families — the Tern GSD or Rad Power RadWagon handle more weight
- Long-distance commuters — the extra effort adds up over 10+ miles
- Riders wanting premium features — the Priority Current costs more but includes lights and fenders
In the wild
Pros & Cons
What we like
- +35 lbs makes it actually portable — you can lift it
- +308 lb capacity handles serious grocery runs or one kid
- +No battery means zero range anxiety or charging hassles
- +Compact footprint fits standard bike parking
- +8-speed Shimano drivetrain covers most terrain
- +$1,099 is half the cost of comparable e-cargo bikes
Watch out for
- –Zero motor assist means you power every pound yourself
- –Hills with heavy loads will be genuinely tough
- –No built-in lights or electric accessories
- –Limited to lighter cargo compared to longtail e-bikes
Full Specifications
Size & Weight
- Weight
- 35.5 lbs
- Max system weight
- 308.6 lbs
- Cargo capacity
- 110.2 lbs
- Rider height
- 4'10" – 6'3"
Drivetrain & Brakes
- Drivetrain
- Chain — Shimano
- Gearing
- Derailleur (8-speed)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — Hydraulic disc
Wheels & Comfort
- Suspension
- Rigid
Cargo & Family
- Layout
- Compact
- Rack system
- Atlas Q Rack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this actually replace a car for errands?
For short urban trips under 5 miles, absolutely. You'll carry 4-5 grocery bags or one small child easily. Longer trips or heavy loads will require decent fitness.
How does 35 lbs compare to other cargo bikes?
It's revolutionary. Most e-cargo bikes weigh 65-85 lbs, making them impossible to carry upstairs or lift onto racks.
What about hills with cargo?
The 8-speed gives you low gears, but you're still powering everything yourself. Moderate hills are fine, steep grades with heavy loads will be work.
Is the build quality solid for the price?
Tern has a strong reputation for thoughtful engineering. At $1,099, you're getting proven components and frame design without paying for a motor system.
Where the Rad Power RadWagon gives you motor assist for $1,999, the Short Haul D8 cuts weight in half and price by $900. Against the Priority Current at $1,799, you lose the belt drive and lights but gain true portability.
