Are you looking to understand the specific advantages of non-suspension electric unicycles (EUC)? There’s been a lot of chatter about suspension EUCs lately, and for good reason. While they do have some advantages when compared to its non-suspension counterparts, the “hard tail” EUC still offer some great benefits that are worth considering.
In this article, I share what I’ve learned from deciding what electric unicycle type is best for me.
Summary: Reasons for Why a Non-Suspension Electric Unicycle is Better than a Suspension EUC
- Non-suspension electric unicycles (EUCs) are more durable with fewer moving parts
- Longer service life interval and easier to maintain
- Non-suspension EUCs have larger lithium ion batteries per price unit, because there’s more space in the chassis
- EUCs without suspension are typically more compact and easier to transport than their suspension counterparts
- Non-suspension electric unicycles cost less for better motor performance, larger battery capacity, and improved power-to-weight ratio
If you’re looking for an electric unicycle that’s both durable and affordable, a non-suspension EUC is the way to go. Let’s take a more in-depth look at each of these reasons.
In a Hurry? Here are 3 Popular Non-Suspension Electric Unicycles 🏆
- Inmotion V12 (Most High Tech, Versatile)
- Veteran Sherman (All Purpose Performance)
- Begode RS 19″ (Popular Stunt Jumper)
1. Non-suspension electric unicycles are more durable with fewer moving parts
The first advantage of non-suspension EUCs is that they’re more durable. This is because they have fewer moving parts than suspension EUCs. This means that there’s less that can go wrong with a non-suspension EUC over time. Additionally, non-suspension EUCs are less likely to break down since there are fewer parts that can wear out or break.
2. Longer service life interval and easier to maintain
Another advantage of non-suspension EUCs is that they have a longer service life interval. This means that you won’t have to replace your EUC as often as you would if you had a suspension EUC. Additionally, non-suspension EUCs are easier to maintain since there are fewer parts that need to be regularly serviced or replaced.
3. Non-suspension EUCs have larger lithium ion batteries per price unit, because there’s more space in the chassis
If you want to ride further and for a longer period of time at any speed, you’ll want to lean toward getting an electric unicycle without suspension. Non-suspension EUCs also have larger batteries for their cost, as compared with those EUCs with suspension systems. This is because there’s more space in the chassis for the housing larger batteries.
4. EUCs without suspension are typically more compact and easier to transport than their suspension counterparts
If you’re looking for an electric unicycle that’s easy to transport, a non-suspension EUC is the way to go. This is because they’re typically more compact than suspension EUCs. Additionally, non-suspension EUCs are often lighter in weight, which makes them easier to carry, store, or transport in another vehicle, e.g., your car, a pubic bus. Maybe you want to keep your EUC under an office desk or the table at a restaurant. The form factor of a EUC with no suspension system will make this easier.
5. Non-suspension electric unicycles cost less for better motor performance, larger battery capacity, and improved power-to-weight ratio
If you’re looking to save money, a non-suspension EUC is the way to go. This is because they typically cost less than suspension EUCs. Overall, the engineer constraints of adding a suspension system means that there’s less space for bigger batteries. The added weight of putting all those mechanisms on the EUC also directly affects the power-to-weight ratio, which is an important performance metric. So, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, a non-suspension EUC is the way to go.
Bonus Advantage: A Non-Suspension EUC Will Draw Less Attention
If you’re looking to go incognito, as I have when traveling with my Veteran Sherman, you’ll want a non-suspension EUC. The added bulk and attention-grabbing nature of suspension systems make them a dead giveaway that you’re riding a unique PEV from the future, a la electric unicycle.
So, Should You Get a Suspension Electric Unicycle or Not?
Well, check out the pros and cons of suspension in an EUC. There are a multitude of reasons why you should have a suspension EUC. If you ride off-road on technical trails or in urban areas with poor road conditions, a suspended EUC will give you more control when you ride. This makes your journey safer, even if you ride slowly.
Also, I would say that in the long run, it is also possible that if you want to extend the life of your EUC, a suspension system will protect your investment by absorbing vibrations and shocks that can damage the internal components of your EUC. This is unproven, of course, and there’s no telling what happens to the electronics within an EUC unless you dig in there.
What is my Preference for an Electric Unicycle?
For my riding style and preference, I have always looked at non-suspension EUCs, like the KS16x, Begode RS, or Sherman Max, first because they are less fickle. Suspension systems are new to the EUC (and other micromobility devices) and they are not as refined as they are on cars and bicycles. In my opinion, this makes them more likely to fail or break down. I would rather have a non-suspension EUC that I know will work every time I ride it than a suspension EUC that might give me trouble.
Also, I like the fact that non-suspension EUCs are generally lighter and more portable. This is important to me because I often take my EUC on the road with me, and I don’t want to lug around a relatively bigger (maybe even heavier), suspended EUC.
For someone who rides primarily on good surfaces like roads, groomed trails, or multi-user paths, e.g., bike lanes, trails, and the like, a suspension EUC is probably not necessary. If you live in an area with smooth roads, you will likely never notice the difference between a suspended and non-suspended EUC.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! These are the key advantages of non-suspension electric unicycles. When deciding whether or not to get a suspension EUC, consider your riding style and needs. If you ride off-road or on technical terrain, a suspension EUC will give you more control. If you want a lighter (relatively speaking) and more portable EUC, a non-suspension EUC is the way to go.
And, if you’re looking to save money, a non-suspension EUC will typically cost less than a suspended EUC with equal under-the-hood performance. Whatever you decide, make sure you have fun riding your electric unicycle!