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Is this new electric unicycle a sidewalk terror or misunderstood machine?

Is this new electric unicycle a sidewalk terror or misunderstood machine?

Electric unicycles spark a hot debate: Are they sidewalk terror or misunderstood machines? While electric scooters have already raised concerns about safety and public nuisance, electric unicycles seem to take these issues to a whole new level. With their challenging control, these devices seem like accidents waiting to happen.

Would you feel safe sharing a sidewalk with one of these? On the road, the risks increase as riders struggle to maintain balance and visibility in traffic. As this trend takes hold, the question remains: are we looking at a new wave of personal transportation that puts the public at risk?

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People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The rise of electric unicycles

Electric unicycles (EUC) are becoming increasingly popular as a unique form of personal transportation. Unlike traditional unicycles, these units are powered by electric motors and are designed to be ridden standing up.

One of the latest models, the InMotion E20promises to be the easiest to read EUC on the market. With its dual-tire design and self-balancing technology, the E20 aims to eliminate the usual learning and falling challenges associated with traditional unicycles.

People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Is the InMotion E20 a beginner-friendly electric unicycle?

The InMotion E20 is an electric unicycle that deviates from traditional design by having one wheel and two tires. This unique configuration allows for lateral self-balancing, greatly reducing the usual challenges associated with learning to ride a unicycle. As a result, users can easily assemble, disassemble and operate the E20, often learning to ride it in just three minutes.

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People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Stability and ease of use for the electric unicycle

The E20 is designed to be stable and user-friendly, making it one of the simplest electric unicycles available. It uses a proprietary self-balancing algorithm that maintains balance both front and rear, helping to minimize the risk of tipping over. Riders can lean forward to accelerate, remain steady while standing still, and lean back to brake.

People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Performance and safety features of the electric unicycle

With a top speed of up to 12.4 mph, the E20 can handle a variety of terrains, including city roads and gentle slopes. Its long-range capability allows travel of up to 28.6 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for short commuting needs. The company says safety is a priority for InMotion, and the E20 is equipped with over 20 safety features, including automatic shutdown in the event of a fall.

A man carrying an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The electric unicycle’s smart functions and connectivity options

The unicycle also includes a high-quality Bluetooth speaker, which allows users to connect their smartphones and enjoy music while riding. In addition, the E20 offers smart app connectivity, allowing drivers to customize features such as acceleration and brake response.

People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The electric unicycle’s robust construction and aesthetic appeal

Despite its entry-level design, the E20 is still a robust machine. It weighs 30 pounds and can hold riders up to 220 pounds. The unit features RGB ambient lighting for increased visibility and aesthetic appeal, along with a headlight and a brake taillight for safety. The InMotion E20 is relatively affordable at $399.

A woman riding an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Safety issues with electric unicycles

Despite the advances in this technology, the inherent instability of electric unicycles raises significant safety concerns. These devices are difficult to control, especially for beginners, and the risk of accidents is high.

The E20, for example, has a top speed of 12.4 mph, which may seem slow on paper but can feel quite fast to an inexperienced driver. The risk of accidents on sidewalks and roads is high and the consequences can be serious.

A man carrying an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Is public safety at risk because of electric unicycles?

Would you want to share a sidewalk with someone riding an electric unicycle? The answer for many would be a resounding “no”. The slim design and high speeds of these devices make them a hazard to pedestrians. On the roads, the situation can be even worse. Their small size and instability make them difficult for drivers to see and anticipate, increasing the risk of collisions.

A man riding an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

A new trend with old problems

Electric unicycles may be the latest trend in personal transportation, but they come with many of the same problems that have plagued electric scooters. The risk of accidents, the difficulty of controlling the devices and the risk to public safety are all important concerns. While the technology behind models like the InMotion E20 is impressive, it does little to mitigate the inherent dangers of these devices.

People riding electric unicycles at night (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Electric unicycles represent an interesting development in personal transportation, but they also pose significant risks. Their instability and high speeds make them a potential hazard on sidewalks and roads. As this trend continues to grow, it is critical for users and the public alike to be aware of the dangers and take appropriate precautions to ensure these devices do not become the next big menace on our streets.

What are your thoughts on the safety and usability of electric unicycles like the InMotion E20 compared to other personal electric vehicles? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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