Verdict: The Brompton Electric C Line wins on compactness and transit integration; the Tern HSD P9 wins on cargo capacity and motor performance for multi-use utility.
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Winner: Brompton Electric C Line
Brompton Electric C Line: 7.5/10
Tern HSD P9: 7.9/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
Brompton Electric C Line
Tern HSD P9
Motor
250W front hub, 40Nm
Bosch Performance Line, 250W, 65Nm
Battery
270Wh
400Wh
Folded Size
585x565x270mm
~740x1010x480mm
Bike Weight
~16.6 kg (36.6 lbs)
~27.3 kg (60 lbs)
Cargo Capacity
Limited front basket
60 lb rear rack + child seat
Wheel Size
16-inch
20-inch
Brompton Electric C Line
What works
World's most compact fold — 585x565x270mm fits under a desk and in a transit car
Folds in 20 seconds, stands on its own folded
16.6 kg — light enough to carry up stairs
What doesn't
250W front hub motor — limited on steep grades or with cargo
270Wh battery limits range to 25-50 miles
16.6 kg is heavy for a folding bike — non-electric Brompton versions are lighter
Tern HSD P9
What works
Bosch Performance Line mid-drive at 65Nm — handles cargo and hills properly
Rear rack rated to 60 lbs, compatible with front child seat
400Wh battery for better range at higher assist levels
What doesn't
Large fold footprint — not practical for subway transit integration
27.3 kg requires rolling, not carrying — impractical for stair situations
More complex to fold than Brompton's refined mechanism