Cruising good times with electric unicycles

Taking one glance at someone using a self-balancing electric unicycle is definitely not enough. While some might think they are showing off, I think that it is quite a fascinating sight.

Curious about the new trend, I did some research and stumbled upon Rendezvous CWAL, the first rental providers for electric unicycles in Singapore.

They even have free sessions for first timers to learn how to use the electric unicycles every first Sunday of the month from 4.30pm to 6pm. When it is free, you will see me!

When I reached the small yet quirky rental shop at Kallang Wave Mall, I met the very approachable organiser, Dato Ong Chun Hong, and the 23-year-old led us to the track outside Sports Hub for the introductory session.

During each session, Dato Ong provides up to 20 double-wheeled electric unicycles with training wheels installed below the pedals. It also comes with a safety strap attached to the handle for you to better balance yourself.

My first experience with the electric unicycle was quite nerve-racking. It was very difficult to even get onto, but after a few tries, I succeeded.

“Actually, it is easier than learning how to ride a bicycle as it takes about five to ten minutes,” Dato Ong said.

A typical session includes learning how to move forwards and backwards. After that, we learnt how to wheel around the cones to practice our movement.

I have to say…I got the hang of it pretty quick, so I had more time to wheel around aimlessly while the rest were still practicing. #tryharderguys

Once everyone was done, we got to travel three to four laps around the stadium together.

The sensation of cruising on the electric unicycle with the fresh, crisp air flowing against me was amazing.

Every electric unicycle contains a safety feature that slows down whenever you are going too fast to prevent you from falling. It is quite a safe machine even for newbies to use.

One of the participants, Nikhil D, is already considering to buy one an electric unicycle for himself.

“It was awesome riding an electric unicycle for the very first time and I always wanted to learn it,” he said.

The past few sessions averaged an attendance of about eight to ten people. Even though there were not many people yet, I did not complain because it meant more time for me to ride the electric unicycle!

The electric unicycle community might not be large right now, but Dato Ong believes it will change one day.

“People are curious, but I think that they are reluctant to try. By having these sessions with our participants, we hope people are more encouraged to try it out,” he said.

To reach out to more people, Dato Ong shared with his friends and created a Meetup page online.

He is also discussing with his partners to make his sessions more interesting by incorporating fun games. “We have been discussing about playing with Nerf guns while riding on an electric unicycle,” said the Nanyang Polytechnic graduate.

“Our vision is that we want it to be a common sight to see people using electric unicycles in Singapore,” he said.