Monowheel: features, types, selection and repair

Today, among the usual means of transportation, such as a bicycle or a scooter, devices of a new generation have appeared, which are characterized by no less functionality. The monowheel, represented on the market by a large number of manufacturers and models, belongs to this category.

Similar device for riding is a type of electric vehicle in demand around the world. The name "monowheel" fully characterizes this tool, since it is a wheel capable of self-balancing in the process of movement. Management and operation of the device are possible due to the built-in electric motor, as well as a system having a set of gyroscopic sensors.

The unicycle has a durable case made of plastic, which stands out against resistance to mechanical damage that is possible during the ride. For ease of use by a person, the monowheel on the sides is equipped with special footrests with anti-slip pads, providing a convenient arrangement of the feet on them. Also on the case there are special pads for the lower legs, since in the process of moving a person needs to fix a unicycle between his 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 a plastic case, in addition to the electric motor, there are a mini-computer and batteries. A feature of used batteries is resistance to negative temperatures, in light of which the working battery does not lose its charge even when operating in the cold season - in winter.

Most monocycles have regenerative brakes that enable the owner to save battery power during the ride. In the process of moving down the slope or reducing speed, such a feature in the device will allow recharging.

The monowheel has a working principle similar to that of a yule, that is, the device responds to changes in the position of the body in space, while changing the characteristics of its work and movement. Due to the presence of coils-electromagnets on the inside and outside of the apparatus, the device moves forward in this direction when the user tilts, increasing speed, when the body tilts back, the wheel slows down.

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

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

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

• devices are capable of speeds from 15 km / h to maximum values ​​of 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;
• according to the type of transmission of torque in the line of the proposed means, monowheels with direct drive and using a gearbox are distinguished;
• the rated power of monocycles can reach 2 kW;
• wheel diameter 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 pluses of the monowheel include the following characteristics.

• Monocycle - a newfangled branch from gyro scooters, but the design of this tool is simpler. This quality determines the presence of a minimum of components that may become unusable in comparison with more complex electrical mechanisms.
• Due to its configuration the device is designed for driving in any areas, on the wheel you can move on the road and other terrain, in addition to a smooth asphalt road in the city. Therefore, the unicycle is classified as off-road vehicles.
• You can ride such devices over long distances, and also developing decent speed on some models. Powerful batteries allow you to overcome about 50 kilometers on one full charge of the battery.In addition, in the line of modern vehicles of this type, the unicycle is the fastest.
• There is no need to obtain a driver license to control a 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 control is carried out without the need to use hands, with the exception of models with a steering wheel or handle. Monocycles deprived of this structural detail allow you to ride in the right direction, while you can hold a bag, phone, walk on a leash of a pet in your hands, etc.
• Maneuverability is another characteristic inherent in 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 a large number of buttons, levers or other components necessary for movement. In order to power the device or turn it off, it will be enough to press one button.
• The tool works great without a required service, for reliable operation, the owner of the monocycle will need to monitor the battery charge, as well as pump up the wheel from time to time.
• In order to charge the battery, it will be quite simple to connect the unicycle to a power source - an outlet.
• The cost of the device can also be attributed to the merits, since a good unicycle today can be purchased at the price of a normal smartphone.
• An important feature for residents of many countries will be the environmental friendliness of the monocycle. 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 balancing skills 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 riding. This will require additional costs for the purchase of protective equipment, such as knee pads, elbow pieces, a helmet, etc.
• Budget models are not able to travel long distances on a single charge. Therefore, the rider on such monocycles will have to plan his route in such a way that it is possible to charge his wheel.
• Monocycles can be used in the cold seasonHowever, electronics cannot be used in wet weather.

Today, the classification of vehicles for driving 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 monocycles:

• single wheel devices;

• monocycles with a double wheel.

The first option is universal and the most common among the assortment of monowheels. The second variety is a design where two wheels are combined with each other. Most often, the latter option is purchased for use by beginners or children. A feature of monocycles is a large area of ​​contact with the surface of the earth, which facilitates the process of maintaining balance during the ride.

A one-wheeled hovercraft 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 is distinguished by the presence of two wheels, which can not be said about the monocycle. The latter also has special sensors that are responsible for controlling lateral movements, which prevents the device from falling to one side.

No less popular means of transportation are electric scooter or hoverboard. The device of the latter also does not require the involvement of hands, and the movement on it is due to the smooth movements of the body.

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

A product from a brand that was one of the first to offer the consumer products of this kind. Chinese-made monocycles are not distinguished by a catchy design, however, in the light of modernization, this model is popular due to its reliability and high build quality. The diameter of the wheels is 14 inches; the quick-detachable type battery is located on the side. The monowheel can reach speeds of up to 25 km / h. The device is equipped with Bluetooth, and also supports mobile applications.

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

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. 50-60 minutes will be enough to fully charge the battery. The case of a design is reliably protected from moisture.

The device with 14-inch wheels does not have a handle. Comes with a charger. The motor power is 500 watts, while the monowheel can reach speeds of up to 24 km / h. The popularity of the model determines the bright design design.

Affordable monowheel with an engine power of 1,500 watts. Full charge of the battery is enough to overcome 82 kilometers, while the device can develop a good speed - about 40 km / h. The weight of the model is 20 kilograms, the kit includes a built-in handle for control.

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

In a standard complete set of a unicycle, in addition to the device for movement, usually are present:

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

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

• Replacement battery;
• lighting devices to illuminate the road at night;
• special stands for parking;
• protective stickers that protect the case from damage;
• a carrying bag or carrying case in which the unicycle can be conveniently transported in your hand luggage or behind your shoulders.

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

• Today in any city there are a huge number of departments for the sale of electrical equipment for movement. However, it is recommended to go to buy such a device only to specialized centers. Otherwise, there is a great risk of acquiring a low-quality unit, as well as difficulties in fulfilling warranty obligations in the event of a monocycle breakdown.
• It is worth knowing that the body of all monowheels is made exclusively of plastic. Even if the seller positions his products as a device in a carbon body, you should know that this is just carbon paint.
• Before buying, you should carefully inspect your favorite model for tight joints. If there are gaps at the seams of the plastic, contamination or moisture can penetrate inside, which will lead to failure of the electrical system.
• Before you buy a unicycle, The future owner is recommended to test the device. It should be suitable in 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 leading. This is due to the specifics of such colors to mask various kinds of pollution on the surface, which inevitably arise during the driving of a unicycle on the street. On a light body, even minor scratches will be noticeable.
• The seller must provide relevant documentation, supplied by the manufacturer with each device. A warranty card deserves special attention, as well as conditions that require this kind of service.

There are a number of general recommendations which will help to make trips on a unicycle as safe as possible for beginner riders or professionals.

• To protect yourself from injury which may arise due to careless movement, errors in management, as well as the influence of external factors, the owner of the monocycle 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, and knees and elbows should be protected from injuries when putting on knee pads and elbow pieces. For beginners, you should additionally purchase gloves.
• Use only comfortable and stable shoes to control the unicycle. Otherwise, there is a high probability that the foot will slide off the stand even if there is an anti-slip pad on the platform.
• Manufacturers do not recommend traveling on the fixture in sections of the road where a large number of people are present.
• For personal safety while driving, you must refuse to carry passengers. The unicycle is designed for single skating.
• You should not ride a monowheel on highways.
• When the air temperature drops below the permissible level, unforeseen malfunctions of the device may occur. The devices are designed to operate at negative elevations, but not more than -10 degrees. High values ​​can lead to a sudden stop of the monowheel, which is fraught with injuries, and frost also negatively affects the battery capacity.
• In order to protect yourself from falls, do not ride the device on slippery and wet roads, since in such areas it will be extremely difficult to coordinate the movement and operation of the unit.

To understand how to use the unicycle, The following operating instructions must be adhered to.

• First you need to place the device in an upright position. Extend the steps from both sides.
• The next step is to turn on the electric motor. After one and a half minutes after this, the gyroscope begins to function in the device. Its task is to support the wheel in a stationary position in which it will not deviate forward, backward, left or right.

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

• Put one foot on a stand so that the foot is placed exactly in the middle of the surface. In this case, the unicycle can be located under a slight slope in relation to the horizon.
• Next, you need to press the shin to the special pads on the wheel, bend the leg at the knee. Management will be carried out by changing the concentration of body weight, which will go from sock to heel, depending on the desired direction.
• Before you get on the bandwagon and the second legIt is recommended to test the wheel control features. To do this, you can direct the device forward or backward with one limb. This will help to feel the actions that will be necessary for movement on a monocycle.
• After testing in one place you can try the unicycle, taking one or two steps to travel this distance on one leg.
• Then training should be continued with two legs.

For the first classes, manufacturers equipped almost all of their models with a strap. It is attached to the housing with a special handle, while the second end will be in the hands of the owner of the unit. Also, in order to learn how to ride a monowheel, you can conduct the first few trainings together with a friend who will fulfill the role of a support for controlling balance. Such exercises can be carried out if you stand with two legs on the platform, while partially leaning on the companion.

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

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

You can also solve problems concerning a punctured tire yourself. For these purposes, it is necessary to open the case - to unscrew several screws that hold the unit cover. Then for dismantling the damaged tire is forged.

To repair the camera, you can resort to the method of sealing it, similar to repairing a bicycle. To carry out such work, you will need an emery for stripping, a patch and a rubber adhesive. Wheel assembly after repair is carried out in the reverse order.

See how to repair a monowheel.

The responses of the owners of a modern electric vehicle for movement are mostly positive. A similar option for driving is especially in demand in large cities as an alternative unit for walking, traveling for study, etc.

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

Overview of the monowheel see below.