RFA vs GSD

[readyfredy]

I'm looking to replace my car and can't decide between the Xtracycle RFA or the Tern GSD. I'm leaning towards the GSD because of its size and ability to stand on end in a small space (I live in a studio and in a town with a high theft rate). I like the stability of the 20" tires as I will mostly be hauling groceries and my wife will often be on the back as well, but longer rides seem less fun with 20" wheels.

The 24" wheels and the option of the speed motor make the RFA really attractive for longer rides, but it's quite a bit more expensive as well. It seems more affordable to accessorize the GSD too, is that true? The more classic bike look of the RFA is appealing, but I'm trying to focus on the utility of the bikes.

Do any of you guys have either of these bikes that you could give a testament to?

 

[indianajo]

I suggest you buy a $20 kiddie 20" bike, jack the seat up and ride it through a pothole. No, you can't always avoid them, not if you ride in the rain or snow. Water sometimes cover them. Also the car in front of you in a line at a stoplight. Or if you live in a mega-city, ride a tern demonstrator on bad pavement. Buying a bike from a LBS makes the warrenty real.
I like 26" wheels on less than perfect pavement, but 24" is better than 20". I view Tern GSD with great contempt, but some people posting here love theirs. Carrying up stairs 20" wheels are a benefit.
I carry up to 80 lb cargo on the bodaboda left, and having the load high has not been a problem. It was at a hundred pounds (pickup tire up high), but that probably violates the stated weight limit anyway. the panniers keep my usual load of groceries cg centered around the middle of my legs.
RFA is made of 4130 steel. RFA might be a bit heavy rolling up the stairs. My bike is aluminum with a steel fork. RFA comes in one size, make sure your height is not below 66" or above 74". I bought drop frame bodaboda because my legs are short 28", but it still allows me to have 26" wheels.
Website states only 100 RFA are out there, not likely anybody here has one.
Cargo tip- when loading supplies, the dual leg stand is a postive benefit. Cost me $80, worth it.
I like riding unpowered for cardio exercise, my geared hub motor allows it, also triple front crank for climbing steep hills unpowered. Bosch mid-drive drags some unpowered. Most e-bike purchasers could care less about cardio exercise. I just don't need 6 hours of cardio @ 140 bpm into a 25 mph headwind; added electricity to my bag of tricks.
Have fun shopping.

 

[UncleGarage]

Hi ReadyFredy. Don't know if you're still active in this forum. If you are, please let us know if you made an eBike purchase. Would like to hear about your experiences.