Described herein is a tensioner device, and assemblies and methods of manufacture thereof. The tensioner device may be adapted to create a target tension in an associated belt based on the measured length of the belt. The tensioner device may include an engagement member having a surface adapted to engage the belt and a biasing element associated with the engagement member. The biasing element has a loaded configuration that causes the engagement member to exert a force on the belt to create the target tension. In one example, the biasing element is manipulated into a loaded configuration so that the biasing element exhibits a deflection and an effective spring rate for creating the target tension. The belt may be trapped within the tensioner device with a bracket assembly enclosing one or more runs of belt relative to the engagement member.