Thinking about learning how to learn how to ride a unicycle or even an odd bike? It’s a noble goal that can make you a better athlete and challenge your critical thinking, but before you go and shell out the cash, consider these bits of advice – from people that know the sport inside and out.
Buy What You Want to Ride
Beginner unicycles are great, but realistically, you should buy what you want to ride. If you want to ride a mountain unicycle, learn on that. If you want to take up freestyle riding or just ride around town for exercise, get a unicycle that’s specialized for those disciplines.
Learning is tough enough and you don’t need to make it harder on yourself by learning on a one-wheeler and then having to master another.
Some aspiring riders see unicycles equipped with brakes and think “I want that.” However, want or not, the truth is most riders don’t need a brake, not until they are an experienced unicycle rider with terrain that calls for a brake.
Make Sure It Fits
The most important measurement you can take to determine whether or not a unicycle will fit you is your inseam measurement, which roughly corresponds to the length of your inner leg.
Unicycles often have recommended minimum inseam measurements that you can see in their product or model specifications. Take your inseam measurements and make sure the model you buy will fit you.
It’s important to note that seat posts can be cut down, and adjusted up and down in the frame for variations in height (via the seatpost clamp) but you still need to start with a model that’s appropriately sized.
Raise the Saddle and Use Learning Aids
Learning to ride is tough. Make sure you don’t form bad habits early.
For one, adjust the saddle to a height that forces you to sit in it, so you won’t be standing on the pedals. You can easily adjust the height upwards by loosening the seatpost clamp and raising the seat tube.
Second, learn via the aid of a rail, which will help prevent unplanned dismounts. If you don’t have a conveniently located rail, consider setting up a few chairs, backs facing each other, with yourself positioned between them. These can help you keep your balance and encourage confidence as you learn.
Keep It Simple
You don’t need a whole lot of high-tech unicycle safety gear to learn how to ride. A helmet, gloves, and knee and elbow pads are all you really need. Wear some basic, comfortable clothes. tuck your shoelaces in and get to it.
Need More Information? Visit Unicycle.com
Interested in learning more about the different types of unicycles available and how much they cost? Still have questions that need answering before you commit one way or the other?
Get in touch with the professionals at Unicycle.com. They are the uncontested authorities in their field and know the sport back to front.
They’re helpful, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and most importantly, friendly. If you have any doubts, they’ll clear them up for you. Just give them a shout at 678-494-4962!
