10 Things Almost Every Unicycle Beginner Gets Wrong
If you want to learn to ride a unicycle, you’ll often come across the same false beliefs and misunderstandings. Many beginners choose the wrong wheel size, overestimate the difficulty, or underestimate small technical details. You can find more information and answers in our Frequently Asked Questions.
-
„It’s hard to learn, and it’s for circus.“
Many people think that riding a unicycle is extremely difficult or only for professional performers. In fact, what you need most of all is coordination and practice. Your balance usually improves naturally after a few hours of practice. Once you’ve managed to ride the first few metres, many people find it really great fun. Here you’ll find a video and more information on the subject.
-
„The taller you are, the bigger the bike needs to be“
Many think the taller you are, the bigger the wheel needs to be. They think that a large wheel is more stable and therefore easier to learn on. Or that tall people automatically need a large unicycle. But for beginners, a 20-inch unicycle is almost always much easier to control. Smaller wheels turn more smoothly and respond more directly – you wobble much less with every pedal stroke. When it comes to unicycles, wheel size has much more to do with how you intend to use it than with your height. You can find more information on inseam-lengths and sizes here.
-
„I need to be able to do that in an hour.“
Some people get the hang of it after 30 minutes, others take several days – both are perfectly normal. Children often learn faster than adults. That’s exactly why unicycling is a great family hobby: it’s hugely motivating for children when they learn something a bit quicker than their parents.
-
„The unicycle should not fall over“
But yes! When you’re learning, you should simply let go of the unicycle if you lose your balance. That’s exactly what often makes learning to ride a unicycle less prone to injuries than learning to ride a bicycle: there are no handlebars in the way, and you usually just land on your feet. The saddle bumpers usually take the impact of falls without any problems and can be replaced cheaply if necessary.
-
„I need a professional unicycle straight away.“
A decent standard model is usually sufficient for your first rides. It is only when you start jumping, riding off-road, using the unicycle intensively or carrying a heavier load (75 kg and above) that more robust components become essential. The connection between the crank and the hub is particularly crucial in this regard.
-
„Pedals can sometimes come loose.“
No! Loose pedals or cranks should be tightened firmly right away. Otherwise, the threads or axles could be damaged. It’s particularly worth retightening everything TIGHTLY again after your first few rides. Important: The pedals and cranks are usually marked with ‘L’ and ‘R’ on the inside and have different thread directions. If they are swapped, they will come loose of their own accord whilst riding. You can find (video)assembly instructions here.
-
„Unicycling is only for children.“
Many adults only learn to ride a unicycle in their 30s, 40s or later. Motivation is more important than age. Riding a unicycle improves coordination and body awareness – and many people find the learning process itself extremely motivating.
-
„A unicycle is really pretty simple, isn’t it?“
Many people think that, but it’s not quite that simple. The gear ratio on a unicycle is determined by the wheel size and crank length – and this has a massive impact on how the unicycle rides. There are even unicycles with geared hubs, freewheel hubs and disc brakes.
-
„I’ll just go for the cheapest model.“
Very cheap unicycles imported directly from overseas often cause frustration due to poor build quality or loose cranks. In addition, spare parts are often hard to obtain. A sturdy beginner’s unicycle usually rides much better and lasts longer – which boosts motivation enormously. When it comes to beginner’s unicycles in particular, it’s worth looking at established manufacturers who can guarantee a long-term supply of spare parts.
-
„What can you do except riding down the road?“
The first few metres are just the start. After that come riding backwards, freemounting, off-road riding, wheel walking, or even downhill riding and unicycle hockey. It is precisely this variety that keeps unicycling exciting for many people in the long run.