Call them unicycles or one-wheeled scooter, but one thing for sure is that they are taking the market by storm. In fact, they seem to be gaining popularity much faster than the likes of 3-wheeled, electric kick scooter, self-balancing scooter, and the likes. One thing that comes to mind when you see them is the difficulty in riding them. I mean, if riding and remaining balance on a two-wheeled self-blanking scooter or hoverboard are hard, how about on a single wheel unit? Well, like any other device. Its all about learning and practice. In the following read, we will show you step by step guides on how to ride one wheel electric scooter. Before you read further also check our article on How To Ride Electric Kick Scooter?
How To Ride One Wheel Electric Scooter?
Make sure to read our article on Best Electric Scooter for Adults. I am sure you will love to read it.
Step 1: Unpack It
The first step is to unpack it. The unit comes in different sizes, designs, weight, colors and much more. It is a good idea to find a piece that suits you best. If you are a heavy user, always go for a heavy-duty piece. As a beginner, you should choose a type with a wider wheel and sturdy support /balance wheels. This helps you to stay balanced in an easier manner. Also important is going for a reputable product. The higher the quality, the more reliable, effective, and durable the piece will be.
Step 2: Find a nice location
Next, you need to find a nice location. What we mean is that it should have a nice terrain, have minimal obstacles, and away for human or animal traffic. An empty garage, a smooth backyard, a basement parking are some of the good options. When learning you do not need a very large space. Just make sure there is ample space for you to go forward, backward and make turns.
Step 3: Safety First
One of the hardest tasks when learning to ride a one-wheel scooter is remaining stable. You should not be afraid to fall, as this will happen. To prevent injuries such as bruises, cuts, or swelling after knocking an obstacle, you should always wear protective gear. These include a helmet, kneepads, elbow pads, and good shoes. Just like the accessory, they also need to be of high quality.
Step 4: Understand the scooter and turn it on
Before hopping on the ride, you should familiarize yourself with it. Know where the support wheels are, how they unlock and lock into place. Understand the safety/ holding strap and where it is tied to, the indicators lights and what t they mean. For instance, if its lights green, it means that it has full battery power. However, it’s orange or red, depending on the model, it means that it has low charge and needs recharging.
Step 5: learn to be balanced
Staying balanced can be a challenge. To help you, the unit will feature support wheels on each side and a safety strap. First, find a smooth wall, which allows you to hold on to it while riding. If possible, find a friend who will be on the other side. Simply put, you will be between the wall and the friend (optional). Next, unlock the support wheels and ensure its firm.
Using the strap is an alternative, but it’s more challenging and best left to the slightly experienced users. It is tied on the handle and the user holds it with his/her hands.
Step 6: get on it
Many people agree that getting on the one wheel scooter is very challenging. Get on too fast and will start moving immediately. You need to identify the dominant foot and make the first step with it. Do this gently without any jerky motions. Do this while holding on the wall. Once it is firmly planted on the scooter, you then place the other wheel. Stay stable and aligned to prevent any movement.
Step 7: Move forward and backward
To move forward you simply shift your weight towards the toes. This will put extra pressure on the toes and it will move forward. Moving backward is the opposite. You now put pressure on the heels.
Always try to make movement and twists from the core and not the entire body. Do this while still holding onto the wall or friend. Do this severally and after you have gained some confidence, you can first let go of the friend then the wall or vice versa. Try to move in slow consistent motions.
Step 8: Make Turns
Now you need to make turns. All you need is shift the weight from the right side to the left and vice versa. Just like in the forward and backward movement, place the stress on the core of your body. It is much easier to do this and it ensures the lower body is more balanced. The feet should be firmly placed on the scooter all this time.
Step 9: Come to a Stop
After moving forward, backward, turning right and left, you will need to stop and get off the unit. First, reduce speed gradually. Once almost at standstill, step off with the less dominant foot first. Follow this through with the dominant foot. After a bit of skill and practice, you will be able to easily hop off the scooter while it’s still moving in slow motion.
Once you are off and it’s not moving, switch the item off. The indicator lights will go off. It is always a good idea to recharge the unit after use. This will take several hours. Also Check, Best 3-Wheel Electric Scooters
In conclusion
As you can see, learning how to ride a one-wheeled electric scooter is not that difficult. We have even provided you simple steps on how to go about it. We started d by showing you how to unpack it, learn the basics, trying to remain balanced, moving forward and backward, changing direction or turning and finally coming to a stop. All these steps are essential in learning the art of riding the unit. You, however, need to understand that it takes a bit of time, practice, and patience to become a pro. In no time, you will soon be patrolling and cruising the streets and commuting with more confidence. In addition, as always, ensure you observe safety at all times.
