InMotion V13 Challenger was unveiled with a statement saying that it is the “fastest in the world” in the leading high-power electric unicycles segment. This market is an overlooked niche in micro-mobility vehicles. However, these are electric vehicles that can be fast and stable in the electric transportation segment. It remains convenient to carry along or store at the ride’s destination, unlike locking the doors of a bicycle.
While early electric unicycles had similar performance to most typical electric bicycles and scooters, the industry has progressively touted faster and more powerful electric unicycles that push the envelope of power and speed.
The InMotion V13 Challenger is the latest in a long line of increasingly powerful electric unicycles from InMotion. The powerful motor requires a large capacity battery, and the V13 delivers with a 3,024 Wh battery pack. The V13 operates with an extremely high system voltage of 126V. That higher operating voltage helps it achieve its 4,500W (6 hp) power output. And believe it or not, that’s just the continuous power rating. The peak power output is a mind-melting 10,000W (13.3 hp).
With that much power behind the 22″ wheel, the electric unicycle achieves a wheel lift speed of 140 km/h (87 mph). The wheel lift speed is the unloaded top speed of the unicycle’s wheel when the unit is lifted into the air. It is higher than the actual top speed when ridden on flat ground, but is a useful metric used in the industry for comparing electric unicycles. The actual operational top speed of the V13 is still likely to surpass 90-100 km/h (55-60 mph).
Other features
To keep it reasonably safe at higher speeds, the V13 includes 90 mm (3.5 inches) of suspension travel. That should come in handy when riders hit bumps at high speeds. Additionally, the unicycle includes a touchscreen for selecting options, two charging ports for quicker recharging, a USB-A port and USB-C port for powering smaller devices like phone charging, and a rolling handle for walking the unicycle next to the operator when not actively riding.
All of that power doesn’t come cheap though, with the InMotion V13 expected to retail for $4,600. Pre-order customers can enjoy a hefty discount, dropping the price to $3,999. However, it is to be noted that it is convenient. The larger wheel gives the comfort of an electric bicycle and the weight of the vehicle is close enough to an electric scooter. These are much portable and can carry luggage as well. One challenge could be that the rider has to take time and learn how to ride the vehicle.
