There are two types of Single Wheel Motorcycle known by similar names that can sometimes be misunderstood and cause confusion. The most accepted definitions of the two types of motorcycle are shown below.
Mono-wheel Motorcycle (Unicycle): A Mono-wheel Motorcycle is also known as a Unicycle in which the rider sits on top of a Single Wheel.
Monocycle: is a Single Wheel Motorcycle in which the rider sits inside the single wheel.
In this article we will look at the first design, Mono-Wheel Motorcycles. To read about Monocycles Click Here
Before we look at the benefits of single wheel design, let’s take a look at some examples for better understanding.
Mono-Wheel Motorcycles (Unicycles)
You are truly going to love these Unicycles. Small, Sleek Design, Balanced and Some Being Electric.
Embrio Unicycle
The Embrio unicycle designed by Bombardier weighs 360 lbs (163 kg). This concept vehicle plans to be powered by hydrogen fuel and gyroscopically balanced. A smaller front wheel is used to stabilize the Embrio when it is traveling below 12mph (20 km/hr) or stopped.
The Embrio unicycle is controlled by levers on the handlebars. The lever on the left is used for acceleration, and the right for braking.
Source: Click Here
Visit Bombardier Website: Click Here
RYNO Unicycle Electric Bike
Another example of a Mono-wheel motorcycle is the RYNO Unicycle Electric Bike invented and produced by engineers Chris Hoffmann & Tony Ozrelic. RYNO an acronym which stands for “Rip You a New One”, and is derived from a video game.
Powered by 2 Sealed Lead Acid Batteries that last for 15 miles (24 km), the RYNO weighs 160 lbs (72 kg). Small and light enough to take onto a train or ride on a footpath/sidewalk, the RHYNO travels at a safe speed of 12.5 MPH (20 km/hr). RYNO uses advanced motion-sensor technology to detect the rider’s input. If the rider leans forward, the bike will accelerate forward. If the rider leans back, the bike will stand up taller and slow down.
The RYNO does not fall forward or backward, but is held upright by gyro and motion sensors. The rider’s legs are used to prevent the unicycle from tipping over sideways, as is the case with a two wheel motorcycle. Turning the RYNO is achieved by looking and leaning in the direction you want to go.
Visit RYNO Website: Click Here
I can’t wait to see an 1800cc RYNO.
Self Balancing Unicycle (SBU) V2.0
The SBU – Self Balancing Unicycle has a 1000 Watt Internal Hub Motor that is powered by Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. The Unicycle can travel 12.5mph (20kph), has a range of 10 miles (16 km) and weighs 27lbs (12.2 kg).
The SBU is controlled by leaning forward to accelerate and leaning back to slow down or stop.
Visit Website: Click Here
The Riot Wheel – Mono-Wheel Unicycle
Unlike anything else in the world, this would have to be the most unusual Mono-wheel Unicycle. Created by Jake Lyall, the Riot Wheel uses a counterweight inside the tractor wheel to counter balance the weight of the rider. Steering is handled by a gyro system and the driver’s shifting weight. The Riot Wheel weighs 1,100 lbs (500 kgs) and can reach. 28 mph (45 km/hr).
Perhaps the Riot Wheel will not be so rare in the future.
Image Source: Second Life
Visit Riot Wheel Website: Click Here
Benefits of Mono-Wheel Motorcycles
Why are there so many people creating Mono-Wheel motorcycles? What are the problems with standard motorcycles?
Well there doesn’t seem to be any problems with standard two wheel motorcycles, however, there are benefits with single wheel motorcycles.
- save money on rubber tires
- space saving when in storage or parked
- increased stability with Segway technology
- variety by providing an alternative for consumers
I am sure we will be seeing more Mono-wheel Unicycles in the future. To learn about Monocycles, Click Here
Check out my other website, click the link below 🙂
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