What Size Unicycle Should I Buy? (Must Read This)
Buying unicycles can be an issue due to the different types and sizes available. However, making a choice is challenging, so you don’t pick the wrong one.
Size is essential for the device’s performance and comfort because the size of a unicycle is a direct measurement of its wheel.
The size has to be the correct fit and provide support after riding for a long time. Hence, knowing the best size for you will help you make a better decision.
The size of the unicycle you must buy depends on the rider’s age, experience, and body size. For example, small-sized wheels are ideal for kids, while larger sizes are best for adults. In addition, a beginner will have to buy a small-sized unicycle to ride quickly. But, a heavier and taller rider will need to buy a larger-sized unicycle.
In this article, I will explain the ideal size of unicycles you should get, the required height for a 24-inch unicycle, and if it is easier to ride a unicycle with a bigger wheel.
By the end, you’ll also know the unicycle wheel size that is best for a beginner and if unicycles have a weight limit.
What Size of Unicycle Should I Get?
The size of the unicycle you should get depends on your age, experience, height, and body weight. Putting all these factors into consideration will help you get the correct size.
There are various types of unicycles for different age groups. However, kids should only ride electric unicycles under adult supervision once they have enough experience.
A child can go for unicycles between 12 inches to 20 inches. A 12-inch wheel is ideal for kids; they can go for bigger sizes as they get older.
At the same time, the ideal size for an adult is between 14 to 16 inches. However, a professional rider can go for 18 inches and above.
The 18 inches and above wheel can withstand impacts more, and they are stronger. However, they can go faster than smaller sizes.
The small-sized unicycles are easier to handle at slow speeds. In addition, their sizes make them suitable for moving through crowded places.
Furthermore, the rider’s experience level determines what size to choose. For example, an experienced rider can easily go for larger wheels without issues.
On the other hand, a beginner rider would have to start the unicycle journey with a smaller-sized wheel. This site is easier to maneuver for a beginner.
However, a bigger-sized wheel may be better for a beginner in some situations because of the rider’s weight and height.
A heavier rider needs a more load-bearing unicycle, and such a vehicle must be bigger. A smaller wheel may also be uncomfortable for a tall person.
So, consider your body weight and height before getting a unicycle. Checking the features and specifications will help determine the size you need.
How Tall Should You Be for a 24-inch Unicycle?
You should be about 5 feet 8 inches tall or above for a 24-inch unicycle. The 24-inch unicycle is large, and the rider must be tall enough.
The wheel has to fit between the rider’s legs without causing any discomfort. Therefore, height is essential for maneuvering the wheel of the device.
Although, someone with lesser height can try riding on a 24-inch wheel. It will give the feeling of sitting on a seat while riding.
But an extremely short person will have issues balancing on the wheel. Hence, it is best to test the vehicle whenever you come across the 24-inch unicycle.
If you don’t feel comfortable riding it, it is not suitable for your height, and you have to go for something lesser.
Is It Easier to Ride a Unicycle With a Bigger Wheel?
Riding a unicycle with a bigger wheel is challenging if you are not a professional rider. It may not be easy initially, but you will get used to it eventually.
However, a professional will find riding a unicycle with a bigger wheel easier than a less experienced rider on the first encounter.
Bigger wheels can go long distances at a fast pace. They can put a beginner rider off balance and cause serious injuries.
However, there is little difference between riding small and big-wheeled unicycles once you have enough experience.
The table below outlines the differences between riding a small and big-wheeled unicycle.
| Small Wheeled Unicycles | Big Wheeled Unicycles |
|---|---|
| They are easier to mount. | Mounting them can be challenging. |
| You can easily carry and maneuver them. | They are not easy to maneuver at a slow speed. |
| They are ideal for slow speeds. | You experience more stability at a faster speed. |
| Accelerating and braking are fast on them. | The acceleration and braking can put you off-balance. |
| They are ideal for short journeys. | They are less prone to accidents. |
| They are more compact and inconspicuous. | They are less inconspicuous. |
| They are not ideal for off-road surfaces. | They are ideal for an off-road experience. |
What is Wheel Size on a Unicycle Best for a Beginner?
A 16-inch wheel is best for a beginner because it is the average size anyone can handle. Bigger wheels are more intimidating and challenging to maneuver.
The smaller wheel sizes, between 12 to 14 inches, are difficult to maintain balance. A beginner needs a wheel size that would balance and move easily.
In addition, the 16 inches wheel size can go at a steady speed that won’t seem too fast or slow. Besides, you can easily stop this unicycle at this pace.
The rider will get more experience and use bigger wheel sizes over time. Plus, the 16-inch wheel is enough for an average adult’s weight.
The wheel is also ideal for a rider with average height. However, the rider may need to go for a bigger wheel size due to some factors.
A tall rider may feel uncomfortable on the unicycle because of the vehicle’s position. However, your size should give your feet enough room to balance on the unicycle.
A beginner’s feet need enough space to get familiar with the vehicle. Getting your balance will develop your skill faster.
Do Unicycles Have a Weight Limit?
Every unicycle has a weight limit that ensures its smooth running. However, most have an average weight limit of 220 lbs (100 kg).
However, this limit may vary according to the unicycle’s brand, model, and build quality. For instance, some unicycles have a maximum weight capacity of 265 lbs.
But you can always check the vehicle’s specifications for confirmation.
The reason for unicycles’ speed limits is that a heavier rider will require more power to move at the same speed as a lightweight rider.
When the rider’s weight exceeds the weight limit on the vehicle, it puts pressure on the motor and other components, which can decrease its performance or make it break down.
In addition, unicycles have weight limits because of the required braking distance for a vehicle to stop moving.
A rider who exceeds the maximum weight capacity would take longer to brake because the vehicle will require more power to decelerate.
There will be a need to transfer more power from the battery to the controller, then to the motor. You don’t need this kind of braking duration in an emergency.
Plus, putting the unicycle through so much stress due to the rider’s weight will increase the money you have to spend on maintenance and repair.
Maintenance may be unable to save the vehicle at some point, and it eventually breaks down completely.
Therefore, it is best to always go for a unicycle with at least 30% weight capacity above your body weight.
It is essential to put this into consideration because you may need to carry a backpack or some other additional weight on the device.
The total weight of the rider and extra cargo should always stay within the vehicle’s weight capacity.
For example, if you weigh 176 lbs (80 kg), you will need a unicycle that has a maximum weight capacity of 230 lbs (104 kg).
