Buying guide
Electric unicycle – self-balancing unicycles for adults from InMotion, Begode and Leaperkim
At Wheelyshop you will find a carefully selected range of electric unicycles – from easy-to-learn entry-level models such as the InMotion V8S and E20 to powerful long-range EUCs such as the InMotion V13, Begode and Leaperkim Sherman with suspension and a range of over 100 km. Compare wheel size, motor power, range and weight directly in the filter and find the electric unicycle that suits your commute or your longer rides. Every electric unicycle comes with free delivery, a 2-year warranty (in addition to your statutory rights) and the option to pay in instalments.
In short
- An electric unicycle balances itself forwards and backwards – you steer with your body, and most people learn the basics in a few hours.
- Wheel size decides the ride feel: 14–16 inch is easiest to learn and carry, 18–22 inch gives stability at speed and on rough ground.
- Allow a margin on range and compare the battery in Wh – powerful models weigh 25–45 kg.
- A helmet, wrist guards and knee pads are mandatory kit for every beginner.
- Rules differ widely: in some EU countries a self-balancing unicycle limited to 20–25 km/h may be ridden like an e-scooter, in others (e.g. Germany, Italy) it is not approved for public roads at all. Powerful models (40–70 km/h) are private-land only everywhere – check your national rules.
How to choose an electric unicycle
A unicycle is the most compact electric vehicle there is – it fits in a wardrobe, takes no space on the train and delivers a ride feel no other vehicle can match. The price is a learning curve and the fact that not every model can be ridden everywhere. Start from your experience, your journey and where you are allowed to ride, then choose wheel size, power and range accordingly.
1. How an electric unicycle works – and how long does it take to learn?
Gyroscopes and accelerometers keep the wheel balanced forwards and backwards, while you handle the sideways balance just as on a bicycle. Lean forward and the wheel accelerates, lean back and it brakes. Most people are standing and rolling after a couple of hours with the support of a wall or railing, and feel confident in traffic after one to two weeks of daily riding. Start on smooth tarmac away from traffic, wear full protection and be patient – an electric unicycle rewards those who practise systematically.
2. Wheel size decides the ride feel
- 14–16 inch: easiest to learn, quickest to turn and simplest to carry – usually 12–20 kg. Suits city commuting on smooth streets.
- 18 inch: the mid-range with the best balance between agility and stability, often 20–30 kg. Suits most commuters.
- 20–22 inch: most stable at speed, over bumps and on gravel, but heavy (30–45 kg) and needs more room. Often with suspension and large batteries.
3. Motor, battery and range
Motor power is stated in watts and decides how well the wheel handles hills and how much safety margin you have at speed – choose more power than you think you need, because an overloaded motor is the most common cause of falls. The battery in Wh decides the range: entry-level models often quote 30–60 km, the mid-range 60–100 km and long-range models 100–200 km. Real-world range depends on speed, rider weight, temperature and surface, so calculate your journey there and back and add a margin. The same habits that maximise range on an e-scooter – steady speed, correct tyre pressure and a warm battery – apply to an electric unicycle too.
4. From beginner to premium – choose the right class of electric unicycle
- Entry level: InMotion V8S, E20 and Ninebot Mini Pro – light, tough and built for learning, with a speed limit that can be raised as your experience grows.
- Commuting: InMotion V9, V11 and V12 – 16–18 inch, suspension on several models and a range that covers a working week without charging.
- Premium and long range: InMotion V13 and V14, Begode Race, Leaperkim Sherman and Patton, Kingsong F22 – powerful motors, large batteries and suspension for long rides and rough terrain.
Compare with electric scooters if you are unsure whether a unicycle is right for you – they are easier to learn but take up more space.
5. Safety and protection
An electric unicycle has no handlebar to hold on to, so protective gear is not optional. A helmet, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads are the minimum, and many experienced riders wear a full-face helmet and armoured jacket at higher speeds. Learn the wheel's warning signals: beeps and tilt-back mean you are close to the limit of the motor or battery. Never ride fast on a low battery – the voltage drops and the margin disappears. Helmets and protective gear are under helmets and safety.
6. Rules for riding an electric unicycle in the EU
Rules differ widely between EU countries. In some, a self-balancing unicycle limited to 20–25 km/h may be ridden like an e-scooter – on cycle paths, never on the pavement, often with a minimum age and sometimes with compulsory insurance. In others, such as Germany and Italy, an electric unicycle is not approved for public roads at all and may only be ridden on private land. Powerful models built for 40–70 km/h, which covers most premium wheels, are private-land only everywhere. An overview of national road rules is available from Your Europe; always check the rules in your own country, the speed mode and the documentation on the product page.
The best electric unicycle for you – final comparison
When you are down to two models, write down the same data for both:
- Wheel size, weight and dimensions
- Motor power, design top speed and vehicle class
- Battery capacity in Wh, quoted range and charging time
- Suspension, tyres, IP rating and lights
- Availability of tyres, pedals and spare parts
Choose the model that suits your experience today, not the one you hope to grow into in a year. Spare parts for every model are in the spare parts portal, and locks and accessories under accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Is it hard to learn to ride an electric unicycle?
The basics usually take a couple of hours with the support of a wall or railing, and after one to two weeks of daily practice most people feel confident. Start with a 14–16 inch entry-level model, on smooth tarmac away from traffic, and always with a helmet, wrist guards and knee pads.
How fast does an electric unicycle go?
Entry-level models are often limited to 20–30 km/h, while powerful models are built for 50–70 km/h. Rules differ widely: in some EU countries a unicycle limited to 20–25 km/h may be ridden like an e-scooter, in others it is not approved for public roads at all. Faster models are private-land only everywhere – check your national rules.
How far can you go on one charge?
Entry-level models often quote 30–60 km, commuter models 60–100 km and long-range models over 100 km. Real-world range depends on speed, rider weight, temperature and surface, so allow a margin and compare battery capacity in Wh.
Can you ride an electric unicycle on the cycle path?
It depends on the country. Where a self-balancing unicycle limited to 20–25 km/h is treated like an e-scooter, you ride on the cycle path and never on the pavement, often with a minimum age. In countries such as Germany and Italy it is not approved for public roads at all. Unicycles built for higher speeds may not be ridden on public roads or cycle paths anywhere in the EU.
Which electric unicycle suits a beginner?
A light 14–16 inch model with a tough shell and a speed limit that can be raised as your experience grows, for example the InMotion V8S or E20. Choose a model you can master today rather than a powerful premium wheel that is heavy and fast from the start.