transmission, much of the teething issues like chain drop and jumping during shifting has been eliminated.
With a pricetag of RM3,800, it's a bit steep for a beginner's bike, but that said, you get branded components like the Shimano Sora rear derailleur, Alivio shifter and even the 55T chainring is custom-made for Tern. You can depend on the "Sharktooth" anti-drop chainring when it comes to rigorous gear-shifting especially on uphill climbs.
But, before you hit the road, it's best to give the Verge P9 a pre-ride tune-up.
HOW DOES IT HANDLE?
When fully deployed, the Verge P9 is one firm bike.
The secret? Physis handlebar and steering system, the OCL joint which locks-in the frame to give a solid ride.
What would even rock harder, is having a VRO syntace stem on the P9, but here, you get a much more simpler locking clamp. To get the most out if it, just make sure that you constantly check that it's not loosened from wear and tear.
I took the Verge P9 out for a spin and for a bike that comes with a 55T chainring, there's plenty of raw power coming out of this 20" folding bike.
The rear cartridge has a 11-32T gear configuration which means that you can speed on a flat and climb slopes effortlessly. Well, that - if you are a really fit rider.
Shifting is smooth with the Shimano Alivio 9-speed shifter and I found it to be pretty responsive. On road holding, there's the proven kinetic comp double walled rims and Schwalbe Kojak tires. Now, if you plan to ride and commute to work, Kojaks are cool and fast, but they offer poorer puncture protection compared to the Schwalbe Big Apple.
Since the Verge P9 comes with a pair of slick tires, you will expect to feel every bump and knock on the road. The bike weighs at 11kgs and has a maximum rider weight of 110kgs. So, lugging this baby onboard an LRT (bagged of course!) is not an issue. The frame also accepts racks, so, if you plan to do some light bicycle touring on this bike, it's quite possible.
CONCLUSION
As far as quality, fit and finish is concerned, the Verge P9 is one notch about its closest rival: the Dahon Vigor P9.
Hands-down, the Tern bike has the best component package and when you have the itch to pimp your ride, it's frame will accept high-end components.
The Verge P9 is placed one notch below the Verge X-10 and definitely would rank even lower compared to the Verge X-20.
After a hands-on session with the bike, it's no surprise that the Verge P9 would be here to stay.
WHERE TO BUY?
Tern's Verge P9 is available from Rodalink outlets and major bike shops throughout the country. And more information can be accessed at
www.ternbicycles.com.