Among new modes of personal transportation, the single-wheeled electric unicycle (EUC) is appealing and exciting. Riding EUC is like taming a wild horse in stark contrast to small motorcycle. Are the single-wheeled devices as safe as small motorcycles, which have been around for decades?
An Exciting Glimpse Into Electric Unicycles
An electric unicycle is a single-wheeled, self-balancing personal transport vehicle. It is powered by a motor and battery, with no need for pedals or manual propulsion. Unlike bicycles or motorcycles, electric unicycles require the rider to maintain balance both side-to-side and front-to-back.
Electric unicycles rely heavily on advanced internal sensors, which continuously read the rider’s balance and adjust the motor output accordingly. The core mechanism involves an accelerometer and gyroscope that communicate with the vehicle’s controller to maintain balance. Shifting weight forward propels the vehicle, while leaning backward initiates braking or reverse movement.
An Overview of Small Motorcycles
Small motorcycles are powered by gasoline engines, which typically have more horsepower than the motors in electric unicycles. Their operation is simple: the throttle controls speed, while the handlebars are used to steer. These bikes often come equipped with gears to manage speed and power output, though automatic options exist.
Small motorcycles come in various forms, such as scooters, mopeds, and standard mini bikes. These motorcycles typically have an engine displacement between 50cc and 250cc. Which makes them more compact and less powerful than full-size motorcycles.
Electric Unicycle vs. Small Motorcycle: Safety Features
| Safety Features | Electric Unicycle | Small Motorcycle |
| Suspension system for smoother rides on uneven terrain | Yes | Yes (shock absorbers) |
| High-torque motor for smooth acceleration and deceleration | Yes | Yes (less reliance on sensors) |
| High-traction tires and wider anti-slip pedals for better control | Yes | Yes (more robust tires) |
| Battery management system (BMS) to prevent overcharging and overheating | Yes | No |
| IP-rated for water and dust protection (IP55 for wheels, IPX7 for battery) | Yes | No |
Electric Unicycle
Electric unicycles are equipped with a number of protective features. Take the INMOTION Adventure (V14). The V14 incorporates a progressive suspension system that helps riders manage uneven terrain without excessive jolts. It also has a high torque motor—with up to 200N·m of torque—which determines smooth acceleration and deceleration. And the high-traction tires and wider anti-slip pedals improve control. No need to worry about losing balance while in motion.
The V14 also feature sophisticated battery management systems (BMS) and high-power Samsung battery cells, which prevent overcharging, overheating, and other issues that might pose safety risks. IP ratings (IP55 for the wheels, IPX7 for the battery) provide additional protection against water and dust. Such unicycle is great for riding in challenging environments.
Small Motorcycle
Safety features, like brake systems (drum or disc brakes), shock absorbers, and more robust tires that provide better grip and stability on the road, can be found on small motorcycles. Unlike electric unicycles, small motorcycles have two wheels. Which inherently offer more balance and less reliance on sensors for stability.
However, motorcycle safety is largely subject to the external additions such as helmets, gloves, and padded clothing. ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems) is another feature that significantly enhances safety, especially in sudden braking situations. Unlike the electric unicycle, motorcycles are also more likely to include rearview mirrors, turn signals, and headlights, all of which contribute to better road safety.
Electric Unicycle vs. Small Motorcycle: Stability & Balance
| Stability & Balance Features | Electric Unicycle | Small Motorcycle |
| Number of wheels | 1 | 2 |
| Rider skill requirement for balance | High | Low |
| Technology assisting with balance | Yes (gyroscopic mechanism, fast response system) | No |
| Stability on rough terrain | Moderately stable (depends on rider) | More stable (shock absorbers, larger tires) |
| Stability on inclines | Can handle up to 50-degree inclines | Naturally more stable |
| Ease of maintaining balance at high speeds | Moderate (depends on rider skill) | High (low center of gravity, stable at higher speeds) |
Electric Unicycle
Electric unicycles require a certain level of rider skill for maintained balance, given that they have only one wheel. Advanced EUCs are equipped with technology to assist in this area. For instance, the INMOTION V14’s Raptor Controller uses 42 MOSFETs to deliver high-performance power management and fast response times, contributing to smoother rides and fewer balance issues. In terms of suspension, the 600 lbs/in stiffness in the front section and 970 lbs/in stiffness in the rear section of the unicycle make it more stable over rough terrain.
The gyroscopic mechanism of electric unicycles continuously adjusts the motor’s output, compensating for minor rider imbalances. While balance is largely dependent on the rider, the device’s internal systems play a major role in keeping the rider upright, especially when navigating challenging terrains or inclines up to 50 degrees.
Small Motorcycle
Small motorcycles naturally offer more stability than electric unicycles because of their two-wheel design. Riders do not need to actively engage in balancing the vehicle side-to-side, allowing of a more relaxed ride. With built-in shock absorbers and larger tires, small motorcycles can navigate bumpy roads and potholes with relative ease. Because of its weight and low center of gravity, the motorcycle runs more stable at higher speeds than an electric unicycle.
Electric Unicycle vs. Small Motorcycle: Speed and Maneuverability
| Speed & Maneuverability | Electric Unicycle | Small Motorcycle |
| Top speed | Up to 43 mph (70 kph) | 45-60 mph at the minimum |
| Acceleration | Quick, responds to weight shifts | Smooth, controlled by throttle and gears |
| Maneuverability in tight spaces | High (small size, tighter turns) | Moderate (requires more space) |
| Stability at high speeds | Moderate (depends on rider skill) | High (better cornering stability) |
| Sensitivity to road conditions | High (more sensitive to bumps) | Low (larger wheels handle bumps better) |
| Required rider skill for handling | High (instant response to rider input) | Moderate to high (requires throttle control, counter-steering) |
Electric Unicycle
Electric unicycles, though compact, can achieve impressive speeds. The INMOTION V14 has a top speed of 43 mph (70 kph), which puts it on par with many small motorcycles.
What makes electric unicycles more agile is their size. The small footprint allows for tighter turns and better maneuverability in congested areas or narrow spaces. The 200N·m of torque in the V14 helps riders accelerate quickly and maintain control even in tight corners or sudden stops.
Small Motorcycle
Small motorcycles typically run higher speeds and smoother acceleration compared to electric unicycles. Even the slowest mopeds can reach speeds of 45 mph to 60 mph. The two-wheel design also provides better cornering stability at high speeds. Small motorcycles are designed with larger wheels. Which is why they can handle bumps or uneven surfaces well.
While motorcycles are capable of traveling faster, they require careful control of the throttle, brakes, and gears. Counter-steering and lean angles are crucial for safe cornering, and this skill must be developed over time.
Final Words
In brief, EUCs and small motorcycles have their peculiar safety advantages. While small motorcycles can boast their natural stability with their two wheels, EUCs would balance themselves with the power of advanced technology. Comparatively, EUCs can become agile and compact, although small motorcycles handle speed and rough terrain much better. Safety for both vehicles will depend on a rider's skill, environment, and proper gear being worn. In any case, used responsibly, each can prove to be safe.
