Two World-Class Family Haulers, One Big Question — Which One Fits Your Life Best?
When it comes to premium family-cargo e-bikes, two names rise to the top again and again: Tern’s GSD Gen 3 and Yuba’s Spicy Curry V4.
Both brands pioneered long-tail cargo designs that can replace a car, but they approach the challenge differently — Tern with precision-engineered compact practicality, and Yuba with smooth, roomy comfort.
This guide dives into every category that matters: design, motor performance, comfort, cargo handling, and real-world usability — to help you decide which of these heavy-hitters deserves a spot in your garage.
Quick Specs Overview
| Feature | Tern GSD S10 LX (Gen 3) | Yuba Spicy Curry V4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | $5 ,499 – $6 ,499 | $4 ,799 – $5 ,199 |
| Motor | Bosch Cargo Line Smart System (85 Nm) | Bosch Cargo Line Smart System (85 Nm) |
| Battery | Dual 500 Wh = 1 ,000 Wh | 545 Wh (dual optional = 1 ,090 Wh) |
| Drivetrain | 10-speed Deore / optional Enviolo CVT | 10-speed Deore / optional Gates Belt |
| Wheel Size | 20 in rear / 20 in front | 20 in rear / 26 in front |
| Cargo Rating | 440 lb (200 kg) total | 440 lb (200 kg) total |
| Bike Weight | 77 lb (35 kg) | 68 lb (31 kg) |
| Range | 30–120 mi (dual) | 30–100 mi (dual) |
| Brakes | Magura MT5 hydraulic 4-piston | Magura MT5 hydraulic 4-piston |
| Warranty | 10 yr frame / 2 yr electronics | Lifetime frame / 2 yr electronics |
Design & Geometry
Tern GSD
Compact and vertical — it’s shorter than a regular bike yet carries two kids or full cargo. The twin 20-inch wheels keep the center of gravity low, and the Atlas Lockstand stabilizes the load at stops.
Folding handlebars and seatposts make it apartment- and SUV-friendly.
Yuba Spicy Curry
Longer and lower with a 26 in front / 20 in rear wheel combo for a “cargo-truck” feel. The extended wheelbase delivers outstanding stability with passengers aboard.
Its sweeping aluminum frame and bamboo deck scream practicality and style.
Winner: Tie — Tern wins for storage efficiency; Yuba for open, roomy design.
Motor & Performance
Both employ Bosch’s latest Cargo Line Smart System (85 Nm). The difference lies in tuning and gearing.
- Tern: tighter gearing, snappier acceleration, and eMTB mode for instant torque modulation.
- Yuba: smoother throttle-like ramp-up; calmer feel under heavy loads.
On steep climbs, both easily handle 15–18 % grades with passengers.
Tern’s shorter wheelbase helps it surge faster from stops, while Yuba feels planted and composed.
Winner: Tern GSD — slightly sportier power delivery and dual-battery standard.
Battery & Range
Tern’s dual-battery system (1 ,000 Wh) is integrated cleanly and provides up to 120 miles on Eco mode.
Yuba ships with one 545 Wh PowerPack and can upgrade to dual-pack (1 ,090 Wh).
Winner: Tern GSD — dual battery standard, more seamless management.
Ride Comfort & Handling
Tern GSD
- 20″ wheels keep weight low.
- Adjustable Andros stem and suspension seatpost add versatility.
- Feels zippy but slightly firmer over rough pavement.
Yuba Spicy Curry
- 26″ front wheel smooths out bumps.
- Longer wheelbase and soft saddle provide SUV-like ride quality.
- Optional Yepp child seat mounts and footboards make passenger rides plush.
Winner: Yuba Spicy Curry — smoother, calmer ride on mixed terrain.
Cargo Capacity & Family Setup
Both rated for 440 lb total payload and designed around child-seat compatibility.
| Feature | Tern GSD | Yuba Spicy Curry |
|---|---|---|
| Child Seats | 2 Yepp Maxi EasyFit | 2 Yepp Maxi EasyFit |
| Rear Rack Length | Medium (mid-tail) | Full long-tail |
| Accessory Mounts | Tern ecosystem (Clubhouse + Storm Box) | Yuba accessories (Bamboo boards, Bread Basket) |
| Load Stability | Excellent lockstand + short tail | Very stable extended tail |
Winner: Tie — Tern’s modular system vs. Yuba’s classic spacious layout.
Build Quality & Components
- Tern: Precision-engineered; welded aluminum, internal cabling, Bosch Kiox 300 display, Magura MT5 brakes, custom Atlas kickstand.
- Yuba: Simpler finish but rugged; wide bamboo deck, adjustable cockpit, high-quality Magura hydraulics, and Deore drivetrain.
Winner: Tern GSD — more refined integration and component synergy.
Maintenance & Reliability
Both use Bosch systems with global service support.
Tern’s enclosed cabling and modular accessories make upkeep easier; Yuba’s longer chain run demands more frequent cleaning.
Bosch electronics = bulletproof reliability.
Winner: Tern GSD — less exposure, easier service intervals.
Portability & Storage
| Factor | Tern GSD | Yuba Spicy Curry |
|---|---|---|
| Foldable Cockpit | Yes (folding bars + seatposts) | No |
| Vertical Storage | Yes | No |
| Weight | 77 lb | 68 lb |
| Length | 71″ | 84″ |
Winner: Tern GSD — unrivaled small-space storage.
Price & Value
Tern costs roughly $700–$1 ,000 more, but includes:
- Dual batteries
- Premium display
- Integrated lighting & cargo system
Yuba keeps initial cost lower, making it a better entry to premium cargo bikes.
Winner: Depends on budget — Tern for features, Yuba for value.
Brand Support & Community
Both brands have stellar reputations.
- Tern: Global dealer network, long warranties, detailed documentation.
- Yuba: Strong U.S. dealer support, lifetime frame warranty, and vibrant owner groups.
Winner: Tie
Verdict Summary
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Design & Geometry | Tie |
| Motor & Power | Tern |
| Range | Tern |
| Comfort | Yuba |
| Build Quality | Tern |
| Maintenance | Tern |
| Portability | Tern |
| Value | Yuba |
| Support | Tie |
Overall Winner: Tern GSD (Gen 3)
If you want the most advanced, compact, and feature-rich cargo e-bike available today, the Tern GSD is unmatched. It’s the Tesla of utility bikes — engineered for families who want zero compromises.
Runner-Up: Yuba Spicy Curry V4
Smoother ride, simpler maintenance, and unbeatable real-world comfort make the Spicy Curry a joy to live with. It’s the warm-hearted workhorse of cargo e-bikes.
FAQ — Tern GSD vs Yuba Spicy Curry
Which has better range?
Tern GSD offers up to 120 miles with its dual 1 ,000 Wh setup versus Yuba’s ~100 miles (optional dual).
Which rides more comfortably?
Yuba’s long wheelbase and 26″ front wheel deliver a smoother ride over rough roads.
Can both carry two kids?
Yes — both fit two Yepp seats and child rails for family use.
Which is easier to store?
The Tern folds its cockpit and stands vertically, ideal for apartments or garages.
Which is better for hilly terrain?
Both use Bosch’s Cargo Line motors with identical torque, but Tern’s gearing makes it a bit snappier on steep climbs.
Is the Yuba worth it for the price?
Absolutely — if you prioritize comfort and simplicity over high-tech features, the Spicy Curry delivers serious value.
Related Content:
- Tern Bikes Review
- Rad Power Bikes Review
- Best Folding E-Bikes Guide
- Yuba Bikes Review
- Best Cargo E-Bikes Guide
Why Trust This Guide?
Jeffrey South is the founder of Best Bike Brands. With over 30 years in the cycling world as a shop owner, mechanic, and industry insider, he now shares reviews, guides, and insights to help riders choose the best bikes and gear with confidence.
