Monowheel: features, types, selection and repair

Today, among the usual means of transportation, such as a bicycle or a scooter, there are new generation devices, which are inherent in no less functionality. This category includes a monowheel presented on the market by a large number of manufacturers and models.

Similar riding attachment is a popular worldwide type of electric vehicle. The name "unicycle" fully characterizes this vehicle, since it is a wheel capable of self-balancing during movement. The control and operation of the device are possible due to the built-in electric motor, as well as the system, which has a set of gyroscopic sensors.

The unicycle has a durable body made of plastic, which stands out for its resistance to mechanical damage possible during the ride. For ease of operation by a person, the monowheel is equipped on the sides with special footrests with anti-slip pads, which ensure the convenience of placing feet on them. Also on the body there are special pads for the shins, since in the process of movement a person needs to fix the unicycle between the legs. As a rule, pads are made of soft polymer or rubber so that contact with the skin does not cause discomfort.

As for the internal device, in addition to the electric motor, the plastic case contains a mini-computer and batteries. The peculiarity of the batteries used is resistance to negative temperatures, in light of which the working battery does not lose its charge even during operation in the cold season - in winter.

Most monocycles have regenerative brakes, which allow the owner to save battery power while riding. In the process of moving down the slope or reducing the speed, this feature in the device will allow recharging.

The unicycle has a principle of operation similar to the whirligig, that is, the device reacts to changes in the position of the body in space, while changing the characteristics of its work and movement. Due to the presence of electromagnet coils on the inner and outer parts of the apparatus, the device, when the user tilts forward, moves in this direction, increasing the speed; when the body is tilted back, the wheel slows down.

The position of the unicycle in space is identified by special sensors that transmit the corresponding signal to the motherboard. The latter, in turn, transmits a signal to the rotor coil and battery. Such a chain contributes to the generation of an electromagnetic field.

Another feature of this electric vehicle is the ability to control through a special application in a smartphone or other gadget.

Depending on the type and model, unicycle will have certain characteristics. This applies to the following parameters:

• devices are capable of speeds from 15 km / h to maximum values ​​- 65 km / h;
• as a rule, the battery charging time varies between 50-100 minutes;
• in high-quality devices, the battery life is about 2000 recharges;
• by the type of torque transmission in the line of the proposed tools, monowheels with a direct drive and with the use of a gearbox are distinguished;
• the rated power of monocycles can be up to 2 kW;
• the diameter of the wheel for children, adolescents and adults will be different - this value varies between 12-16 inches;
• depending on the category of destination, the weight of the monowheel will be different - from 12 to 25 kg.

Each device has individual positive and negative features. The advantages of the electric unicycle are the following characteristics.

• Unicycle is a newfangled offshoot of gyro scooters, but the design of this tool is simpler. This quality determines the presence of a minimum of components that can become unusable in comparison with more complex electrical mechanisms.
• Due to its configuration the device is designed for driving on any sections; on the wheel you can move on off-road and other terrain, in addition to the smooth asphalt road in the city. Therefore, the unicycle is classified as an off-road vehicle.
• You can ride such devices over long distances., as well as developing decent speed on some models. Powerful accumulators allow to overcome about 50 kilometers on one full charge of the battery.In addition, in the line of modern vehicles of this type, the monowheel is the fastest.
• There is no need to obtain a driver's license to operate the unicycle. This makes it possible to operate the device at any age.
• Another advantage of this design is freedom. This is due to the fact that the steering is carried out without the need to use your hands, with the exception of models with a steering wheel or handle. Monocycles, devoid of this structural part, allow you to go in the right direction, while you can hold a bag, a phone in your hands, walk a pet on a leash, etc.
• Maneuverability is another inherent characteristic of the design. It is difficult to imagine a simpler and more mobile design that can be easily controlled on any road.
• Monocycles are very easy to operate. They do not contain many buttons, levers, or other components required for movement. In order to activate or deactivate the device, it will be enough to press one button.
• The tool works great without the obligatory service, for reliable operation, the owner of the unicycle will need to monitor the battery charge, as well as pump up the wheel from time to time.
• To charge the battery, it will be enough to simply connect the monowheel to a power source - an outlet.
• The cost of the device can also be attributed to the merits, since a good unicycle can be purchased today for the price of a normal smartphone.
• An important feature for residents of many countries will be the environmental friendliness of the unicycle. It is completely safe for humans and the environment.

For an objective picture, it is also worth considering the disadvantages of such devices.

• Despite the simple design, these types of vehicles are not suitable for everyone. This is due to the complexity of mastering the skills of balancing on one wheel, which can cause not only physical, but also psychological discomfort in a person.
• The unicycle is still considered a tram-hazardous option for driving. This will require additional costs for the purchase of protective equipment such as knee pads, elbow pads, helmet, etc.
• Budget models are not able to travel long distances on a single charge. Therefore, a rider on such unicycle will have to plan his route in such a way that he can charge his wheel.
• Monocycles can be used during the cold seasonhowever, electronics cannot be used in wet weather.

Today, the classification of vehicles on one wheel involves taking into account the features of their design. Despite the name of the device, the division into varieties occurs according to such a parameter as the number of wheels. Today on sale you can find the following models of unicycle:

• devices with one wheel;

• monocycles with a twin wheel.

The first option is universal and the most common among the range of unicycle. The second type is a design where two wheels are aligned with each other. Most often, the latter option is purchased for use by beginners or children. A feature of unicycle is a large area of ​​contact with the ground, which makes it easier to maintain balance while riding.

The one-wheeled hoverboard is often compared to segways... The internal filling designs have some similarities regarding the built-in balancing sensors that support the device in space, but the Segway has two wheels, which cannot be said about the unicycle. Also, the latter has special sensors that are responsible for monitoring lateral movements, which prevents the device from falling to one side.

No less popular means of transportation are electric scooter or gyro scooter. The device of the latter also does not require the use of hands for control, and movement on it is carried out due to the smooth movements of the body.

In light of the great popularity of such devices, today the line of electric unicycle on the market is represented by a large number of devices from different brands. Among the most popular models are the following.

A product from a brand that was one of the first to offer the consumer a product of this kind. Monocycles made in China do not stand out for their catchy design, however, in the light of modernization, this model is popular due to its reliability and high build quality. The wheels are 14 inches in diameter and the battery is a quick-release type on the side. The unicycle can reach speeds of up to 25 km / h. The device is equipped with Bluetooth function and also supports mobile applications.

A version with two fixed wheels on one axle, which stands out for its light travel. The motor has a power of 450 W, the device is capable of speeds up to 18 km / h. The battery charge allows you to travel about 40 kilometers, which is considered one of the best indicators among the presented types of unicycle.

Chinese unit with a 350 W motor. The weight of the device is 10 kilograms, the unicycle is capable of speeds up to 18 km / h. It will take 50-60 minutes to fully charge the battery. The body of the structure is reliably protected from moisture.

Device with 14 "wheels, no handle. Comes with a charger. The motor power is 500 W, while the monowheel can reach speeds of up to 24 km / h. The popularity of the model determines the striking design of the structure.

An affordable monowheel with a motor power of 1500 watts. A full charge of the battery is enough to overcome 82 kilometers, while the device can reach a good speed - about 40 km / h. The model weighs 20 kilograms and comes with a built-in control knob.

Unicycle with built-in LEDs, the motor has a rated power of 800 watts. The battery capacity will be enough to drive about 30 kilometers. The device weighs 13.5 kg. Among the features, it is worth highlighting the presence of a headlight, which will become an assistant when driving in the dark. You can control the electric unicycle through a mobile application.

The standard equipment of the unicycle, in addition to the device itself for movement, usually contains:

• Charger;
• inflating hose;
• safety belt for beginners.

However, the list of accessories may vary for each manufacturer, especially for the latest generation models. Therefore, the consumer will be able to buy a one-wheeled vehicle with the following accessories:

• Replacement battery;
• lighting devices for illuminating the road at night;
• special parking stands;
• protective stickers, thanks to which you can protect the case from damage;
• a carry-on backpack or case in which the unicycle can be conveniently transported in carry-on luggage or over your shoulders.

To purchase a high-quality and easy-to-use model of a monowheel, the following nuances should be taken into account.

• Today in any city there is a huge number of departments for the sale of electrical equipment for movement. However, it is recommended to go to purchase such a device only to specialized centers. Otherwise, there is a high risk of acquiring a low-quality unit, as well as difficulties in fulfilling warranty obligations in the event of a breakdown of the unicycle.
• It is worth knowing that the body of all monowheels is made exclusively of plastic. Even if the seller positions their products as a device in a carbon case, you should know that this is only a carbon finish.
• Before buying, you should carefully examine the model you like for tightness of the joints. If there are gaps in the seams of plastic, dirt or moisture can penetrate inside, leading to damage to the electrical system.
• Before you buy a monowheel, the prospective owner is recommended to test the device. It should be suitable for weight, size and other parameters, since visual appeal does not always indicate comfort in use.
• Today electric wheels are presented in a wide variety of colors, however, as practice shows, in terms of practicality, the dark palette is still in the lead. This is due to the specifics of such colors to mask all kinds of dirt on the surface, which will inevitably arise during the process of driving a monocycle on the street. Even minor scratches will be noticeable on the light case.
• The seller must provide the relevant documentation, supplied by the manufacturer with each device. Particularly noteworthy is the warranty card, as well as the conditions for this kind of service.

There are a number of general guidelines which will help make unicycle rides as safe as possible for novice riders or professionals.

• To protect yourself from injury, which may arise as a result of careless movement, errors in control, as well as the influence of external factors, the owner of the unicycle should use the entire complex of protection. This is especially true for children and adolescents. It is recommended to wear a helmet on the head, knees and elbows should also be protected from injury by putting on knee pads and elbow pads. For beginners, it is worth additionally purchasing gloves.
• Use only comfortable and stable shoes to operate the electric unicycle... Otherwise, there is a high probability that the foot will slip off the stand, even with an anti-slip pad on the platform.
• Manufacturers do not recommend moving around on a device on sections of the road where there are a large number of people.
• For personal safety while driving, you must refuse to carry passengers. The unicycle is designed for solo riding.
• You should not ride a monowheel on highways.
• If the air temperature drops below the permissible level, unexpected malfunctions of the device may occur.... The devices are designed for operation at negative elevations, but not more than -10 degrees. Large values ​​can lead to an abrupt stop of the electric unicycle, which is fraught with injuries, and frost also negatively affects the capacity of the battery.
• In order to protect yourself from falls, do not ride the device on a slippery and wet road., since in such areas it will be extremely difficult to coordinate the movement and operation of the unit.

To understand how to use the electric unicycle, you must adhere to the following instructions for its use.

• First you need to position the fixture in an upright position. Extend the footrests on both sides.
• The next action will be to turn on the electric motor... After one and a half minutes after that, the gyroscope begins to function at the device. Its task is to support the wheel in a stationary position in which it will not deflect forward, backward, left or right.

Learning to operate the unit is quite simple. To do this, follow these steps.

• Put one foot on the stand so that the foot is placed strictly in the middle of the surface. In this case, the unicycle can be located at a slight slope in relation to the horizon.
• Next, you need to press the lower leg to the special pads on the wheel, bend the leg at the knee. The control will be carried out by changing the concentration of body weight, which will move from toe to heel, depending on the required direction.
• Before you step on the bandwagon and the other foot, it is recommended to test the wheel steering features. To do this, you can direct the device forward or backward with one limb. This will help you get a feel for the actions that will be required to move the unicycle.
• After testing in one place you can try a monowheel, taking one or two steps to travel that distance on one leg.
• Then the training must be continued with two legs.

For the first lessons, manufacturers complete almost all of their models with a strap. It is attached to the body on a special handle, while the other end will be in the hands of the owner of the unit. Also, in order to learn how to ride a monowheel, you can carry out the first few trainings together with a friend who will play the role of a support to control balance. Such exercises can be carried out by standing with two feet on the platforms, while partially leaning on the companion.

Despite the simplicity of the unit design, as well as the use of electronic mechanisms as components, unicycle sometimes has the following problems:

• lack of traction;
• the device does not turn on;
• the device does not charge or quickly loses its charge;
• the device emits extraneous sounds;
• the wheel does not turn when the body is tilted.

You can also independently solve problems related to a punctured tire. For these purposes, it is necessary to open the case - unscrew several screws that hold the unit cover. Then the damaged tire is pushed on for disassembly.

To repair your camera, you can use a glue-down method similar to repairing a bicycle. To carry out such work, you will need an emery for cleaning, a patch and a rubber adhesive. The assembly of the wheel after repair is carried out in the reverse order.

For information on how to repair the electric unicycle, see below.

The responses of the owners of modern electric vehicles for movement are mostly positive. Such an option for driving is especially in demand in large cities as an alternative unit for walks, trips to study, etc.

Also, the wheel is popular with children. According to their reviews, unicycles are interesting for the opportunity to develop good speed on flat sections of the road, attract attention with their unusual design, an additional set of interesting devices, for example, lighting and the ability to listen to music. The device helps to train the vestibular apparatus, in light of which it is useful for young people and adults.

An overview of the electric unicycle, see below.