It seems strange to be saying that there’s now another self-balancing electric unicycle on the market, but hey – that’s technology for you. Joining the likes of the eniCycle, Solowheel and SBU, we now have the LED-light-strip-adorned EcoBoomer iGo.
The 26-kg (57-lb) vehicle stays balanced on its 16-inch wheel via integrated gyroscopes, that detect and account for changes in the rider’s center of mass – these changes are detected mainly through the two folding footpads. As with a Segway, leaning into the handlebars causes it to move forward, pulling back causes it to stop, and turning is accomplished by leaning to either side.
Its 500-watt motor is powered by a 48-volt/8-Ah lithium-ion battery, that charges to full capacity in three hours. It has a range of 30 km (19 miles) per charge, and can manage a top speed of 21 km/h (13 mph) – given a hypothetical 73-kg (160-lb) rider. Its maximum payload is 115 kg (250 lb).
... and yes, it has strips of color-changing LEDs built into its body, that make it look rather Tron-like at night. It’s priced at US$1,595, and can be seen in action in the video below.
Source: EcoBoomer
[Also see our article on the RYNO at http://www.gizmag.com/ryno-one-wheeled-scooter/20385/ - Ed.]
Phillip Noe may note the quadriple the price difference (projected) and the Ryno in fact not yet on the road anywhere.
I do have a design issue with the i-Go in that it spreads your legs out and should be shaped more like a motorcycle seat and tank where your knees come in to grip the vehicle as any motorcycle rider would know you can make steering adjustments with your knees locked and moving your body-weight which is exactly what i-Go are trying to achieve. Strange they did not take that route.
At last notice i-Go has now signed a US nationwide distribution deal.