FAQ

Where can I find all of the latest specs for the SBU?

Right here: SBUSpecSheet.pdf

What does SBU stand for?

Self Balancing Unicycle.  (No, it’s not small bottom unicycle – we do not discriminate against people’s bottom sizes.)

Is it easy to ride?

It is much easier to learn compared to a conventional unicycle.  The average user needs only twenty minutes to two hours of practice before he/she can have a decent first ride.  The average is about 45 minutes of practice.  The SBU is a rider-assist machine, a combination of the rider’s balance and SBU control.

How fast does it go?

An SBU falling vertically through the air will accelerate at an amazing rate of 32 feet per second per second until it reaches its terminal velocity of 193MPH.  (We do not recommend traveling this fast.)  On level ground and full charge we say it can go 10MPH depending on riders guts (mentally and physically).

How far can I go on a single charge?

About 10 miles on a single charge, or forever if traveling vertically in a bottomless pit.

Will the SBU’s stereo work with my iPod?

The SBU does not have a stereo but it is compatible with you using your iPod and wearing earphones – amazing!

Can I drive the SBU in the rain, sleet, or snow?

No, only the United States Postal Service needs to go out in that weather.  The SBU is splash resistant, but not water proof. It can be ridden in light rain showers.

Can I lean too far forward or backward and fall?

The SBU knows it’s capabilities and pushes the rider back if he/she leans too far. But it’s still the rider’s responsibility to stay within the control margin of the SBU. It will beep when the rider is getting close to exceeding the SBU’s capabilities, so the rider will know when to back off.  If the capabilities are exceeded, the SBU might fall out from under the rider.  The rider can then just put his/her feet down and stand (or run depending on the speed).  It’s a unique blend of machine and human balance, kind of like the Borg from Star Trek.

Can I drive the SBU under water?

Yes, but only for a short distance because it will fry the control board in the SBU – could be a very interesting short ride though.

How much does it weigh?

It weighs 24.6 lbs (11.2 kg).  That’s light enough to carry upstairs, onto public transportation, or into a tree (if you so desire).

Where are the door handles?

They are invisible, but make sure you use the invisible handle to open the invisible door before getting on the SBU.

How do you charge the batteries?

It comes with an AC charging adapter.  A fully depleted battery pack will take only 2 hours to charge; the charger’s LED will turn green when fully charged.  The LiFePO4 battery pack is rated for 1000 charge/discharge cycles.

Is the SBU bluetooth enabled?

Um, no.

Where is the SBU made?

Right here in Vancouver, WA – which is in the United States of America.