The Olympic Ceremony Monowheel
With its spinning outer ring of bright LEDs surrounding a shadowed cyclist at the center, the monowheel mesmerized spectators as it streaked around the “Bird’s Nest†stadium at the end of the Summer Games. Riders can put on the same show at home by positioning themselves on the padded seat within the inner ring’s circumference and gripping the handlebars for balance.
Operating the pedals rotates the outer wheel, which is surrounded by a rubber tire that maintains contact with the ground as it propels the monowheel forward. Steering is controlled by leaning in the desired direction, while braking is achieved with the rider’s feet.
The braided tubes of LEDs between the two rings emit a brilliant light (can be switched off in daylight), powered by a protected rechargeable 1,800-mAh lithium-ion battery. The monowheel is constructed from steel and durable ABS plastic and accommodates riders up to 6′ 2″ and 230 lbs.
