Hey everyone, The most frequent question here is what type of unicycle I'd recommend. How about you all (yes I'm talking to you) tell us what kind of unicycle you have, to give everyone an idea of popular brands/sizes. I'll go first, I have what is typically classed as a 'Trials unicycle', it's 19'', built for street and flatland unicycling, the brands are a mix of Kris Holm, Mad4one, Impact and Nimbus. If you're looking for a unicycle, I'd recommend www.unicycle.com CH.
I kind of went whole hog with this, even though I cannot ride that well. I have 8 20" clubs, a 20" Bedford, a 26"Nimbus muni , a 24" and a few random others. I have had the most success assisted mounting and riding the 24" the longest distance. The pure joy I get watching someone ride down the street on a unicycle is the reason I have so many. I have been trying to teach the kids at school with them. They pick it up so fast!
I have a 24" trainer freestyle unicycle comprised of mainly UDC parts www.municycle.com.au/catalogue/UNI-UDC-T24_item.html?ref_cat_id=Learner24. Which is what I primarily ride to practice the techniques shown here but I've also got a 36 Nimbus Night Rider Pro which I plan to ride to work on (pending me getting confident enough to not get killed). I feel like as my skills are improving I'm probably going to have to move to a trials/street uni pretty soon. Probably with a smaller wheel haha.
I bought a club 20 from unicycle.com . I changed the tire to a smooth tire. It seems to ride turn easier now. I also changed the seat to a smaller u shaded seat that was more comfortable.
From experiance I would say, under 12 years use a 16 inch wheel uni, otherwise the best one to learn on is a 20 inch wheel, if you are looking at long distance 26 inch minimum, for tricks / stunts (forward roll off a stage and continue riding for example) and off road I've always used 20 inch with double spoked rim and square block tyres. BUT I am old skool I started in 1989 and haven't bought a new uni since about 1999 so have no idea what's available these days, it's probably all high tech lighweight stuff so have no helpful suggestions on makes or models 🤣 ive got a few still and ride down the towpath by the canal to my boat.
I am 6'1 and about 176 lbs. I was 31 and I bought a used 20-inch Japanese unicycle to start learning on, (post-surgery on my right big toe.) The tire constantly de-flated and I wanted something that would give me more distance, after a couple of weeks, using the 20-inch daily, next to a hand rail on some pavement at Grandma's apartment complex. (using techniques that I had learned from the Unicycle & Juggling instructor at the St. Louis Children's Museum Circus, the summer prior, where I would use their unicycles, in-class) I was frustrated and decided I needed something bigger, so I got a 26-inch Sun Muni from the local bike shop. I attempted to ride the 26-inch once or twice, then, scared of jumping and pounding my toe joints and further "wearing-down" the 15% remaining cartilaige in my big toes, I decided to rest my unicycles and concentrate only on juggling and handstands until my upcoming surgeries. Recovering from surgeries, I bought a walking globe, and learned that to the point I now juggle clubs on top of it. Last year I got to the point where I felt "recovered" enough in my toes to start learning Unicycle again. I would ride my 26-inch across a bridge, back and forth, to use the rails like bumpers in a beginner's bowling-lane. 1 to 3 times a week, I would have done more, but I was training Globe-walking and Juggling and also Karate. I am 35 now, and two-and-a-half weeks ago I started Chris Huriwai's videos on youtube. I have been hopping on, every-day, no matter what, and every session, I practice the exact techniques from C.H.'s Beginner level 1, and beginner level 2 videos. I re-watch them often, sometimes even while I am resting in the middle of a session. I bought a 20-inch QU-AX Trials Muni, which I assembled yesterday, and rode for 3 different sessions, switching between it and the 26-inch Sun Muni. And yesterday, at 10:50pm, I took flight, on the 26-inch, for the very first time. I departed, free-ride, from the lamp post, after 2 assisted idles and 1 or 2 tries of an unassisted idle (my regular routine, I like to aim to complete 11 of these daily, each arm, each side). This attempt, last night, I went a full circle around half the court, spiraled in, and switched to make it into a figure-8, bailing after some 3 or 4 revs in the opposite turning-direction. On my 26inch I feel light and free. On my 20-inch I still feel like I am doing a lot of work for not much pay-off, but I am sure that this will change, once my body adapts to the motion, say 2-ish weeks from now, as I continue to do twice-daily sessions, with each drill that Chris has lain out for us in his Beginner Level 1 and Beginner Level 2 videos. (I now, do not believe, so much, in the "wear-and-tear argument" that the Doctors of Western Medicine explained to me along with x-rays, range-of-motion and pain level tests, as to why I should get the 3 total surgeries that I have had now, across my two big toes, including a titanium cartilage implant in the right one.) If I could have learned the principles in Chris's videos 5 years ago, or even 15 years ago, I would have known immediately that I was born to Unicycle, and that I could safely practice it by myself. (My toes still give me pain, every walking-step that I take.) The freedom that I now feel on my 26-inch Muni, I know that I will have for the rest of my life! I am going outside, right now to get back to my new self. Thank you, Chris Huriwai for your awesome vids!!!! These vids are so good, that I would say, if anyone wanted to watch only one person's videos in order to learn Unicycle; then that person should be Chris Huriwai! 1000 cheers for Uniquest.
Good for you Gerald. If you felt inclined to upload some videos of your progress you would be surprised how many people would be interested in watching them
That is freaking awesome! I’m always afraid I won’t be able to keep learning things with age, but it sounds like anyone can keep picking up new skills for as long as you like. I would appreciate a video too, if you upload one :D
Woke up on my 80th birthday wanting to ride a unicycle. This video helpful. Thighs burn. But intent on doing this. Mainly because I won't need a bike rack on the car. And very little mechanically to go wrong. Want to hit the bike trails with the unicycle.
I only got a unicycle yesterday, and used my own practicing methods. I started moving but not far. After watching this, i'm shocked how far i've moved. Great video, very detailed and instructive.
Old guy here (69 years old). When I was in high school, a friend loaned me his unicycle, and it took me about 15 minutes to learn assisted start, unassisted ride, but my turns were mostly done using extended arms to twist into the direction I wanted to go, somewhat jerky motion. There were two key issues for me, keeping my weight in the seat, and using light pressure on the pedals. Initially, I was using too much pedal pressure and over-correcting. I only had it for 2 days before I had to return it, didn't learn how to free mount, but I could ride up and down the street after an assisted start and the turns were a bit smoother, but still using extended arms to generate steering torque. I was an experienced skateboarder at the time, but don't know if that helped. However, when I was in 8th grade, I learned how to ride what was essentially a segway with pedals instead of a motor. Two small wheels (about 10 inch diameter) connected by a bent solid bar with bearing mounted pedals on the bent bar, and that probably helped me with front back balance needed for the unicycle.
I wish I had found this series when I first started. Trying to free mount now has been difficult ( I have been assisted mounting in the "dead zone") Also, I still seem to put too much pressure on the first pedal, rather than pushing my body into the seat to counter the push.
Great timing! Had the urge to try and unicycle for about a year, finally broke down to kill the urge and got my KH20 4 days ago. I can’t get away from it! I was riding forward in about 3-4 hours and am now working on free-mounting. I got about 10-12 hours down, a sore butt, I have gutted my shins, and crushing my balls is happening a bit less now. Any bit of free time I got I’m ripping around the yard and having a blast despite beating myself with a unicycle. Thanks man! Excited for the next episode of Uniquest!
Seriously, I took 70hr and a trashed $50 unicycle(24"). You are way ahead of the curve. So throw on some more pads and get some bike shorts, too. Go for it and make sure you work both sides(left and right) you will go very far. Keep on.
trexinvert For sure, bike shorts are a god send. Wish I bought some a long time ago. Not sure if I learned quick from other balance sports, or relentlessly watching youtubers unicycle. Starting to pick up reverse, I can idle for a little bit, and free mount, but all of that is taking much longer than riding around the yard.
I recommend you focus on learning to free mount with feet on 6/12 o'clock. Otherwise, known as the rock back mounting. Then when you master that(both feet), guess what you just learned to do a 1/2 idle. That's it you are idling. Later, take on idling with a "full-rev", and guess what you will be doing? Taking one step backwards. So that's the start of your backwards riding progression. For added challenge(less body damage) you might want to practice on short grass/firm ground with low tire pressure(18psi). You develop more leg power in stroke and speed to deal with bumps and slower unicycle response.
trexinvert I was trying both 6/12 o’clock and the 9/3 positions, still not super sure which mount I like best, I can do both but still sloppy. I got the best practice on a slightly declining grassy hill with about 20 psi and what mount I do kinda depends on the turf grass/pavement, wasn’t sure if jostling between crank/pedal position helped but I can mount either 117/137 pedal position about the same. I would say pavement is easier I think for free mount, but sometimes I think the lumpiness of the lawn can be even easier or much worse. Def know that shorter pedal position (117) on grassy turf is more of a workout, but faster on pavement.
Started to learn today managed 3 revs unassisted before falling off back to it tomorrow morning full day at it with the loverly weather we are having in the uk
Thanks so much, Chris! I’m 53 and decided to learn while corona-confined. I’ve watched you so many times that I’m starting to speak with your AMAZING accent! I am an American who was inspired by a pastor in Taiwan, trained by a UA-camr from down under. Yesterday I rode a quarter km, but am still having a terrible time with mounting. Both methods are tough for me, so I’ve used a brick to prop and prevent rolling backward. I need to break this bad habit, because i’m tired of having to walk back to my brick. Any more mounting tips?
Thank you so much! This process has made me so happy over the past few days. I borrowed a unicycle from a friend to learn to ride. He kinda told me how it goes. About 10min in, I bashed my nuts hard. That was 2yrs ago, and the unicycle has been sitting in the basement since. I stumbled on this video about four days ago and I've been practicing 30min every day. I can already get 2 revs unassisted! But, the assisted idle has me stumped. Two things that helped me immensely that I don't think you mentioned. 1 - Get the non-wall hand off the saddle as soon as you can. Made balance way easier. 2 - Eyes up! Look at something on the horizon.
Those are great tips! Not sure if I included them or not, they may be in the following episode as the tips for learning to ride continue! For the idle, it's a really difficult maneuver, that's why I've included it early on in these levels for people to start practicing, the sooner the better! Glad you're enjoying unicycling :) CH.
Thanks for the video! I'm 45 years old, and I got my Uni a week and a half ago, it was in rough shape, I had to true the rim and straighten the one crank arm. My first 15 minutes with it I got 3 full rotations out of it before I quit from exhaustion. Now that I've taken your advice and learned to relax a bit on my second 15 minutes with it yesterday I was able to crank out about 20 full rotations. I started on my driveway with a slight decline and held onto the side of my pickup truck as my assist. Thanks for the tutorial, try and try and try...on to the next one...having a blast!
Short crank discrimination: 110mm is not a bad length for narrow tire 20" unicycles, but admitedly 125 is also good. When riding away from the wall, graceful dismount (slowing down, stepping off the back and catching the seat) is a good way to end, rather than spectacular faceplant. Nice video Christian.
One thing I’ve never seen a tutorial mention (which probably means it was just a me problem lmao) is incline. No flat surface is actually perfectly flat, and when I started out trying to move away from the wall, I was unknowingly angling myself to move up a very slight uphill. I couldn’t even make one full rotation with the pedals and was getting incredibly frustrated when I realized that the pavement was ever so slightly sloped. I put myself at more of a 45 degree angle from the wall, facing downhill, and was immediately able to do almost two full rotations of the pedals because I wasn’t fighting gravity anymore. This video is the most useful one I’ve watched, and I thought I’d leave a comment just in case other people run into the same issue :)
The day I've been waiting for has finally arrived. For so long I didn't know what to do next like what trick to learn or how to learn them properly; now those days are over I can progress. Even some of the simple stuff in that video I didn't know until now
This video is very well done! I really appreciate the clear instructions. I look forward to giving this a try and will let you know how it goes. ~Roger
Thank you so much Chris. I had bought the unicycle a year ago and now with this guide of your video I’ll engage finally into the learning venture. This is an excellent work out to lose some weight and a great personal skill.
Sin is a continuous function, so keep rhythm and steady power; most of your balance comes from the tire rotating. You need enough power to launch or increase speed, but not so much acceleration that you lose center. Keep your nose up, something that helped me learn to use my arms to balance; was rapidly tapping my fingers and thumbs to increase consciousness. Pedaling pushes you around a bit, and the force can be used to reposition on launches and later increase your height if you have to launch from slouch.
Im 54 and what i was looking at was a QU-AX LUXUS 20" to learn on. Watched several of your videos and must say these are more comprehensive than any other Uni tutorial i have been looking at. Well done bro on an awesome channel.
OK , I bought all the equipment a few days ago. Try to ride with a wall today.. quite difficult, but I am more than 45 yo, it may be a bit longer for me. I keep on training every day. I recommend to use some protective equipments ( gloves, knee-pads and helmet ) to start . Thank you for your lesson I have watched it many times. Loïc
I just chose your video, having access to a unicycle, and am curious to try it. I don't know if I'll be successful at it, but I enjoy your presentation, and your instruction makes sense, so, I'll see! Going to give it a go! And, I'm not anywhere as cool as 84 year old Gerald, but I am 63, so, age is always mind over matter!
Dude, this is the best channel I have come across for unicycling! I got a unicycle last summer and never got around to riding it. Now I'm trying. Good thing I watched this, I flipped the pedals around right away! I seem to always pinch my knees together to hold the unicycle in place; this disrupts the flow. Do you recommend anything?
This was really cool and informative. I just got a unicycle yesterday and want to master it while I'm in lockdown. Thanks for making this video, it was great.
If you want some really cool pedals I suggest the mks runber-x freestyle pedals (of you have a freestyle uni)! They’re pretty soft and have rubber on the edges, but also small spike/bump things so your feet don’t slip off. I can literally ride barefoot with those things 😂
*_Any suggestions for a 79-year old who has never even touched a unicycle?_* I have never been on a skateboard or snowboard. I probably can still ride a bicycle. I learned to skate at age 52 and became an exhibition skate dancer with my wife, but stopped in 2008 when she passed away. I used to ski, but stopped in 2008. I am trying to learn to use a balance board (the circular type with a large hard ball on its underside at the center. I tried a hoover board once, but it immediately threw me. I am brave enough to give the unicycle a shot. Last year I tried a FloRider (an artificial waterfall where the water flows uphill). Prone on a boogie board, I was able to control it for 5 minutes or so before wiping out.
Been wanting to learn for years, now at age 45 and thanks to Adelaide lockdown got a uni and rode for first time today. Riden almost every kind of bike in my life, skated, bladed, wakeboard and surf. Hopefully get this happening. Up to assisted mount and about 8 revs after an hour or so.
Man, this video is awesome. I am 34y and a totally beginner. I bought a unicycle today and watched this video and followed your tips. I'm now able to get onto the unicycle without any assistance and ride it about 5 to 6 meters without any assistance and this within about 2 hours! I'm really impressed how good your tips work! Thank you so much.
I thing the most importand is head. First is relax, but seconda is balance. If you move head to front(a knees) then you move forward. Head is hevy and high. Thing about it
Awesome video! Very helpful! A friend of mine on facebook was getting rid of her brand new unicycle for mad cheap because she couldn't get the hang of it. I always wanted to learn so I swooped it up and thought my nephews and nieces could learn with me. I love your shirt! I have one of their hoodies! Go vegan! For the animals!
For now I'll be focusing on beginners, as I think they probably need the most help... It's the beginner-intermediate level tutorials that are lacking on youtube -Chris H
Thanks for making such a good video on this. I'll be heading out with my unicycle for the second time today and this will be my guide. I'm posting my own videos on how the learning is coming along. My unicycle is a used one I got for 20 bucks. Not sure it's the best fit, but we'll see 🥴
Awesome Tutorial, I'm new@ this. First half hour of practice I have rubbed skin off my inner left ankle, leaving me with a bloody ankle. lol I was just wondering if this is common 4 Beginners or am I doing something particularly wrong? ????Ive now applied a Bandage + Leg warmer... coz I am hooked & want 2 keep @ it. ;-)
I used soccer shin guards when I was learning. Yes, you will get some minor injuries like this. It means you are not simply jumping off the unicycle. That you are trying to "stay on" and work through the balance. Keep on.
Awesome tutorial! I have been an electric unicyclist for over 5 years now and wanted to learn the original unicycle. I learned the electric unicycle in 3 hours. I hope to be able to learn this in a short amount of time too. What is a good tire size to learn on? Any tips on the shape of the seat?Any specific models to recommend?
I think a good size the majority of people learn to ride on is 20 inch wheels, and I suggest a sun flat top or something similar like a qu-ax for beginners!
I have really benefited from these series of videos and am now able to unicycle. I had gotten my unicycle beginning of 2020 but these videos helped me a lot to speed up the progress. But there's lots of glass around when he was teaching the assisted stuff. :D Not a good idea for beginners to practise around all that glass. haha.
Hi Chris, I have found your videos incredibly informative. I started trying to ride a unicycle years ago. Then I had back issues. Ive got the bug back and really want to get back into unicycling. Unfortunately I started learning to mount the unicycle with the pedals in the dead position, so now Im in the position of trying to re-learn how to mount the unicycle from stage 1 :(. Any advice on how to progress with getting the pressure correct one the starting foot?????
I’ve found it easier using a wall and a broom 🧹, then I tried just broom and it’s sooo much easier for me (so if you keep falling off like me then try with a broom) unless you find it harder...?
I am on day two of learning. Watched your video multiple times. I can go fairly well in one direction assisted against the wall but coming back the other way it is very difficult. Should I get very proficient assisted assisted both ways, or is that not really important as the very next step is to be unassisted? Call your videos are awesome! I am 53 and this has been a lifelong dream to learn how to ride a unicycle and I’m going to do it
Another unicyclist in NZ :o I have a friend that's looking to get into unicycling, but it seems the store that I got mine from years back is no longer around these days. Where would you recommend purchasing a unicycle from in Auckland/NZ without paying through the nose to get it shipped from AU/US? Great video too, I will be sending it to him for when he gets one :D In reply to the unicycles I own: I have a 20 inch QU-AX MUnicycle which I learned on and a newer 26 inch Nimbus II which I am in love with.
Wish you had done this video two weeks ago when I started to learn ! Now I'm trying to master the free mount, would be cool to have the next video rn cuz I think in two weeks I should be able to do it already 😂😂 I'm just ahead of your schedule, such a pity 😭
Haha! Classic, well, maybe by episode 3 we'll hit even! Although, that episode is still very basic, episode 4 miiiight have something for you. We'll get there :) -Chris H
@@PrettyGoodChannel hahaha thanks ! although i think i have hit a plateau right now... I can ride straight ahead and turn slightly, but as soon as i go on the sidewalk I panic because it's much narrower and i'm afraid to hit the cars on the side ahaha. And free mounting is something on its own, gotta persevere but it's hard !
Hey everyone,
The most frequent question here is what type of unicycle I'd recommend. How about you all (yes I'm talking to you) tell us what kind of unicycle you have, to give everyone an idea of popular brands/sizes.
I'll go first, I have what is typically classed as a 'Trials unicycle', it's 19'', built for street and flatland unicycling, the brands are a mix of Kris Holm, Mad4one, Impact and Nimbus.
If you're looking for a unicycle, I'd recommend www.unicycle.com
CH.
I kind of went whole hog with this, even though I cannot ride that well. I have 8 20" clubs, a 20" Bedford, a 26"Nimbus muni , a 24" and a few random others. I have had the most success assisted mounting and riding the 24" the longest distance. The pure joy I get watching someone ride down the street on a unicycle is the reason I have so many. I have been trying to teach the kids at school with them. They pick it up so fast!
I have a 24" trainer freestyle unicycle comprised of mainly UDC parts www.municycle.com.au/catalogue/UNI-UDC-T24_item.html?ref_cat_id=Learner24. Which is what I primarily ride to practice the techniques shown here but I've also got a 36 Nimbus Night Rider Pro which I plan to ride to work on (pending me getting confident enough to not get killed).
I feel like as my skills are improving I'm probably going to have to move to a trials/street uni pretty soon. Probably with a smaller wheel haha.
I bought a club 20 from unicycle.com . I changed the tire to a smooth tire. It seems to ride turn easier now. I also changed the seat to a smaller u shaded seat that was more comfortable.
From experiance I would say, under 12 years use a 16 inch wheel uni, otherwise the best one to learn on is a 20 inch wheel, if you are looking at long distance 26 inch minimum, for tricks / stunts (forward roll off a stage and continue riding for example) and off road I've always used 20 inch with double spoked rim and square block tyres. BUT I am old skool I started in 1989 and haven't bought a new uni since about 1999 so have no idea what's available these days, it's probably all high tech lighweight stuff so have no helpful suggestions on makes or models 🤣 ive got a few still and ride down the towpath by the canal to my boat.
I am 6'1 and about 176 lbs. I was 31 and I bought a used 20-inch Japanese unicycle to start learning on, (post-surgery on my right big toe.)
The tire constantly de-flated and I wanted something that would give me more distance, after a couple of weeks, using the 20-inch daily, next to a hand rail on some pavement at Grandma's apartment complex. (using techniques that I had learned from the Unicycle & Juggling instructor at the St. Louis Children's Museum Circus, the summer prior, where I would use their unicycles, in-class)
I was frustrated and decided I needed something bigger, so I got a 26-inch Sun Muni from the local bike shop.
I attempted to ride the 26-inch once or twice, then, scared of jumping and pounding my toe joints and further "wearing-down" the 15% remaining cartilaige in my big toes, I decided to rest my unicycles and concentrate only on juggling and handstands until my upcoming surgeries.
Recovering from surgeries, I bought a walking globe, and learned that to the point I now juggle clubs on top of it.
Last year I got to the point where I felt "recovered" enough in my toes to start learning Unicycle again. I would ride my 26-inch across a bridge, back and forth, to use the rails like bumpers in a beginner's bowling-lane. 1 to 3 times a week, I would have done more, but I was training Globe-walking and Juggling and also Karate.
I am 35 now, and two-and-a-half weeks ago I started Chris Huriwai's videos on youtube.
I have been hopping on, every-day, no matter what, and every session, I practice the exact techniques from C.H.'s Beginner level 1, and beginner level 2 videos. I re-watch them often, sometimes even while I am resting in the middle of a session.
I bought a 20-inch QU-AX Trials Muni, which I assembled yesterday, and rode for 3 different sessions, switching between it and the 26-inch Sun Muni.
And yesterday, at 10:50pm, I took flight, on the 26-inch, for the very first time. I departed, free-ride, from the lamp post, after 2 assisted idles and 1 or 2 tries of an unassisted idle (my regular routine, I like to aim to complete 11 of these daily, each arm, each side). This attempt, last night, I went a full circle around half the court, spiraled in, and switched to make it into a figure-8, bailing after some 3 or 4 revs in the opposite turning-direction.
On my 26inch I feel light and free.
On my 20-inch I still feel like I am doing a lot of work for not much pay-off, but I am sure that this will change, once my body adapts to the motion, say 2-ish weeks from now, as I continue to do twice-daily sessions, with each drill that Chris has lain out for us in his Beginner Level 1 and Beginner Level 2 videos.
(I now, do not believe, so much, in the "wear-and-tear argument" that the Doctors of Western Medicine explained to me along with x-rays, range-of-motion and pain level tests, as to why I should get the 3 total surgeries that I have had now, across my two big toes, including a titanium cartilage implant in the right one.)
If I could have learned the principles in Chris's videos 5 years ago, or even 15 years ago, I would have known immediately that I was born to Unicycle, and that I could safely practice it by myself. (My toes still give me pain, every walking-step that I take.) The freedom that I now feel on my 26-inch Muni, I know that I will have for the rest of my life!
I am going outside, right now to get back to my new self.
Thank you, Chris Huriwai for your awesome vids!!!!
These vids are so good, that I would say, if anyone wanted to watch only one person's videos in order to learn Unicycle; then that person should be Chris Huriwai!
1000 cheers for Uniquest.
I am 84-years old. I have been practicing for 10 years/ Thanks for the tips. I will use them.
Good for you Gerald. If you felt inclined to upload some videos of your progress you would be surprised how many people would be interested in watching them
I second Nathaniel!
@@SomeUA-camGuy You can watch mine!
@Jeremy Bailey You can watch mine also!!
That is freaking awesome! I’m always afraid I won’t be able to keep learning things with age, but it sounds like anyone can keep picking up new skills for as long as you like. I would appreciate a video too, if you upload one :D
Woke up on my 80th birthday wanting to ride a unicycle. This video helpful. Thighs burn. But intent on doing this. Mainly because I won't need a bike rack on the car. And very little mechanically to go wrong. Want to hit the bike trails with the unicycle.
Hey Phil, did you nail unicycling?
I only got a unicycle yesterday, and used my own practicing methods. I started moving but not far. After watching this, i'm shocked how far i've moved. Great video, very detailed and instructive.
Old guy here (69 years old). When I was in high school, a friend loaned me his unicycle, and it took me about 15 minutes to learn assisted start, unassisted ride, but my turns were mostly done using extended arms to twist into the direction I wanted to go, somewhat jerky motion. There were two key issues for me, keeping my weight in the seat, and using light pressure on the pedals. Initially, I was using too much pedal pressure and over-correcting. I only had it for 2 days before I had to return it, didn't learn how to free mount, but I could ride up and down the street after an assisted start and the turns were a bit smoother, but still using extended arms to generate steering torque. I was an experienced skateboarder at the time, but don't know if that helped. However, when I was in 8th grade, I learned how to ride what was essentially a segway with pedals instead of a motor. Two small wheels (about 10 inch diameter) connected by a bent solid bar with bearing mounted pedals on the bent bar, and that probably helped me with front back balance needed for the unicycle.
Great video.. I'm starting to learn while in lockdown
I bought one so I could learn stuff and have fun on my lunch breaks to relax from all the customers annoyed at the business closures
Same, mine comes in the mail today.
Me too, picked one up for free in the street 😀
Me too!
Just got mine today
Keep your head up and look forward....don't look down at your feet and pedals!
I wish I had found this series when I first started. Trying to free mount now has been difficult ( I have been assisted mounting in the "dead zone") Also, I still seem to put too much pressure on the first pedal, rather than pushing my body into the seat to counter the push.
Great timing! Had the urge to try and unicycle for about a year, finally broke down to kill the urge and got my KH20 4 days ago. I can’t get away from it! I was riding forward in about 3-4 hours and am now working on free-mounting. I got about 10-12 hours down, a sore butt, I have gutted my shins, and crushing my balls is happening a bit less now. Any bit of free time I got I’m ripping around the yard and having a blast despite beating myself with a unicycle. Thanks man! Excited for the next episode of Uniquest!
I remember being at that stage! The addiction!
-Chris H
Seriously, I took 70hr and a trashed $50 unicycle(24"). You are way ahead of the curve. So throw on some more pads and get some bike shorts, too. Go for it and make sure you work both sides(left and right) you will go very far. Keep on.
trexinvert For sure, bike shorts are a god send. Wish I bought some a long time ago. Not sure if I learned quick from other balance sports, or relentlessly watching youtubers unicycle. Starting to pick up reverse, I can idle for a little bit, and free mount, but all of that is taking much longer than riding around the yard.
I recommend you focus on learning to free mount with feet on 6/12 o'clock. Otherwise, known as the rock back mounting. Then when you master that(both feet), guess what you just learned to do a 1/2 idle. That's it you are idling. Later, take on idling with a "full-rev", and guess what you will be doing? Taking one step backwards. So that's the start of your backwards riding progression.
For added challenge(less body damage) you might want to practice on short grass/firm ground with low tire pressure(18psi). You develop more leg power in stroke and speed to deal with bumps and slower unicycle response.
trexinvert I was trying both 6/12 o’clock and the 9/3 positions, still not super sure which mount I like best, I can do both but still sloppy. I got the best practice on a slightly declining grassy hill with about 20 psi and what mount I do kinda depends on the turf grass/pavement, wasn’t sure if jostling between crank/pedal position helped but I can mount either 117/137 pedal position about the same. I would say pavement is easier I think for free mount, but sometimes I think the lumpiness of the lawn can be even easier or much worse. Def know that shorter pedal position (117) on grassy turf is more of a workout, but faster on pavement.
Started to learn today managed 3 revs unassisted before falling off back to it tomorrow morning full day at it with the loverly weather we are having in the uk
Excellent, thorough instruction, thank you. I've wanted to try this my whole life. (and Yay Vegan!)
Thanks so much, Chris! I’m 53 and decided to learn while corona-confined. I’ve watched you so many times that I’m starting to speak with your AMAZING accent! I am an American who was inspired by a pastor in Taiwan, trained by a UA-camr from down under. Yesterday I rode a quarter km, but am still having a terrible time with mounting. Both methods are tough for me, so I’ve used a brick to prop and prevent rolling backward. I need to break this bad habit, because i’m tired of having to walk back to my brick. Any more mounting tips?
2024🎉 en Peru,soy Argentino, 30 años, mi primera vez aprendiendo .Tomare Cada Consejo
Thank you so much! This process has made me so happy over the past few days.
I borrowed a unicycle from a friend to learn to ride. He kinda told me how it goes. About 10min in, I bashed my nuts hard. That was 2yrs ago, and the unicycle has been sitting in the basement since. I stumbled on this video about four days ago and I've been practicing 30min every day. I can already get 2 revs unassisted! But, the assisted idle has me stumped.
Two things that helped me immensely that I don't think you mentioned. 1 - Get the non-wall hand off the saddle as soon as you can. Made balance way easier. 2 - Eyes up! Look at something on the horizon.
Those are great tips! Not sure if I included them or not, they may be in the following episode as the tips for learning to ride continue! For the idle, it's a really difficult maneuver, that's why I've included it early on in these levels for people to start practicing, the sooner the better! Glad you're enjoying unicycling :)
CH.
Can't wait to see this series progress! I stopped unicycling a couple years ago because I plateaued, but this is getting me excited all over again.
Nice to hear! The progression of these videos will be slooooow, but once we make it to your level, it will give you LOTS to learn!
-Chris H
Thanks for the video! I'm 45 years old, and I got my Uni a week and a half ago, it was in rough shape, I had to true the rim and straighten the one crank arm. My first 15 minutes with it I got 3 full rotations out of it before I quit from exhaustion. Now that I've taken your advice and learned to relax a bit on my second 15 minutes with it yesterday I was able to crank out about 20 full rotations. I started on my driveway with a slight decline and held onto the side of my pickup truck as my assist. Thanks for the tutorial, try and try and try...on to the next one...having a blast!
Short crank discrimination: 110mm is not a bad length for narrow tire 20" unicycles, but admitedly 125 is also good. When riding away from the wall, graceful dismount (slowing down, stepping off the back and catching the seat) is a good way to end, rather than spectacular faceplant. Nice video Christian.
I can already unicycle but I am going to share this series with my friend! She is also learning it.
I think I will go for the full pad method and just dive into the deep going backwards down some steep hills. Thanks for video. Much appreciated.
One thing I’ve never seen a tutorial mention (which probably means it was just a me problem lmao) is incline. No flat surface is actually perfectly flat, and when I started out trying to move away from the wall, I was unknowingly angling myself to move up a very slight uphill. I couldn’t even make one full rotation with the pedals and was getting incredibly frustrated when I realized that the pavement was ever so slightly sloped. I put myself at more of a 45 degree angle from the wall, facing downhill, and was immediately able to do almost two full rotations of the pedals because I wasn’t fighting gravity anymore.
This video is the most useful one I’ve watched, and I thought I’d leave a comment just in case other people run into the same issue :)
Great input!
You are excellent Unicycler,
Thank You very much. I've learned a lot of unicycling that9 you shared.
The day I've been waiting for has finally arrived. For so long I didn't know what to do next like what trick to learn or how to learn them properly; now those days are over I can progress.
Even some of the simple stuff in that video I didn't know until now
This video is very well done! I really appreciate the clear instructions. I look forward to giving this a try and will let you know how it goes. ~Roger
Please do! Love hearing how people learn, and if you find any useful tips while practicing, share them with us! :D
CH.
Thank you so much Chris. I had bought the unicycle a year ago and now with this guide of your video I’ll engage finally into the learning venture. This is an excellent work out to lose some weight and a great personal skill.
Awesome! I'll respond to your comment above.
Sin is a continuous function, so keep rhythm and steady power; most of your balance comes from the tire rotating. You need enough power to launch or increase speed, but not so much acceleration that you lose center. Keep your nose up, something that helped me learn to use my arms to balance; was rapidly tapping my fingers and thumbs to increase consciousness. Pedaling pushes you around a bit, and the force can be used to reposition on launches and later increase your height if you have to launch from slouch.
I found this video very helpful I got a unicycle for my birthday and it is a training one.
thanks for the tips! I'm 57 years old and am going to try to learn to ride, using your video. We'll see how it goes!
Lean wit it ROCK with it!!! Perfect song for the UNICYCLE!
Im 54 and what i was looking at was a QU-AX LUXUS 20" to learn on.
Watched several of your videos and must say these are more comprehensive than any other Uni tutorial i have been looking at.
Well done bro on an awesome channel.
I have my first uni, a QU-AX Luxus 26". I'm 5'7 and the short seat post is fine.
I learned how to ride on this very uni and two years later it’s my goto wheel! KH20 💪 👍🏼
I just got a unicycle for Christmas and I think this video is going to help
This is really help full I got a unicycle for my bday and I learning and this will help
your beginners Tutorial has been the most HELPFUL & EEFFECTIVE.......Thanx so much ;-P
I'm starting to learn while COVID 19 epidemic. Thank for you.
Great! thanks for the tips! No one told me I should relax :) I will now.
this dude is legit cool!
OK , I bought all the equipment a few days ago. Try to ride with a wall today.. quite difficult, but I am more than 45 yo, it may be a bit longer for me. I keep on training every day. I recommend to use some protective equipments ( gloves, knee-pads and helmet ) to start . Thank you for your lesson I have watched it many times. Loïc
Great video. Thank you. I received a unicycle as a birthday gift this week. You've shared some great tips.
Who disliked this vdo??
Very helpfull to biginers like me thanks mate.
Simple, important yet god level tips. Thanks a ton.
I just chose your video, having access to a unicycle, and am curious to try it. I don't know if I'll be successful at it, but I enjoy your presentation, and your instruction makes sense, so, I'll see! Going to give it a go! And, I'm not anywhere as cool as 84 year old Gerald, but I am 63, so, age is always mind over matter!
Dude, this is the best channel I have come across for unicycling! I got a unicycle last summer and never got around to riding it. Now I'm trying. Good thing I watched this, I flipped the pedals around right away! I seem to always pinch my knees together to hold the unicycle in place; this disrupts the flow. Do you recommend anything?
Pinching the seat to hold it in place... hmm, sounds like maybe it's too low?? Try raise it up?
CH.
Cant wait for the next episode!!🔥🔥
Hi! Thanks for this tutorial I already could unicycle pretty okay and with only one leg and stuff but the simple tips really helped
This was really cool and informative. I just got a unicycle yesterday and want to master it while I'm in lockdown. Thanks for making this video, it was great.
Just got mine....lockdown skill number 2 to learn....Great video...ill give it a go!
Mines comes from Amazon Tues, can wait to learn ! Thanks !
Uniquest is such a clever name omg
This is a pretty good channel
This is a pretty good Chanel
i wish i knew about the plastic pedals.... my shins wouldve thanked you XD
My foot keeps slipping trying to pedal out of dead zone, I was just considering metal spiky pedals.... Thanks for reminding me I have shins!!
If you want some really cool pedals I suggest the mks runber-x freestyle pedals (of you have a freestyle uni)! They’re pretty soft and have rubber on the edges, but also small spike/bump things so your feet don’t slip off. I can literally ride barefoot with those things 😂
*_Any suggestions for a 79-year old who has never even touched a unicycle?_*
I have never been on a skateboard or snowboard. I probably can still ride a bicycle. I learned to skate at age 52 and became an exhibition skate dancer with my wife, but stopped in 2008 when she passed away. I used to ski, but stopped in 2008. I am trying to learn to use a balance board (the circular type with a large hard ball on its underside at the center. I tried a hoover board once, but it immediately threw me.
I am brave enough to give the unicycle a shot. Last year I tried a FloRider (an artificial waterfall where the water flows uphill). Prone on a boogie board, I was able to control it for 5 minutes or so before wiping out.
Flail your arms in all directions! 🤣🤣🤣
Great video thanks for this😄
Thank you very much, I will do my best.
nice vid, continue this series
Returning here 2 years later because this video taught me how to ride
Thanks for this, gonna help my son learn!
The method I used was to start in the corner. with my hands in front on walls for support instead of behind like you show, and push off.
Extremely useful content, thank you so much!
Been wanting to learn for years, now at age 45 and thanks to Adelaide lockdown got a uni and rode for first time today. Riden almost every kind of bike in my life, skated, bladed, wakeboard and surf. Hopefully get this happening. Up to assisted mount and about 8 revs after an hour or so.
8 revs! You've got it, it'll get too addicting to try and get better and better!
Awesome dude. Great tutorial! Working on free mounting which has proved very challenging. Please keep the pointers coming. Thanks
Thank you.Excellent video.
Okay I got that down!
On to level two!
Farrrr bro you're a cool cat haha thanks for the clip - super well explained!
Great videos, clear and full of useful hints.
Can't wait for the next one! See u in two weeks 😉
Love it, cheers guys
Seems nicely made
Man, this video is awesome. I am 34y and a totally beginner. I bought a unicycle today and watched this video and followed your tips. I'm now able to get onto the unicycle without any assistance and ride it about 5 to 6 meters without any assistance and this within about 2 hours! I'm really impressed how good your tips work! Thank you so much.
Awesome! Glad you're enjoying the videos :)
6:08 So far I'm doing pretty good, but I just cannot seem to do that sound. is my unicycle career over?
Two unicycle tutorials from hippo and Eli in one day
Great tutorial! Thanks
thanks for your great presentation
I thing the most importand is head. First is relax, but seconda is balance. If you move head to front(a knees) then you move forward. Head is hevy and high. Thing about it
Great practice tips 🙌🏼
Awesome video! Very helpful! A friend of mine on facebook was getting rid of her brand new unicycle for mad cheap because she couldn't get the hang of it. I always wanted to learn so I swooped it up and thought my nephews and nieces could learn with me. I love your shirt! I have one of their hoodies! Go vegan! For the animals!
Haha thanks, always love making unicycle content and finding vegans!
CH.
finally, so psyched for later ones
Just been out for my first go, good tips, thanks
Very nice ! I can't wait the next vedio. I hope you take turns to film easy and hard skills tutorials for different level riders. Thank you very much.
For now I'll be focusing on beginners, as I think they probably need the most help... It's the beginner-intermediate level tutorials that are lacking on youtube
-Chris H
Thanks man. Very nice
Thanks brother
Very helpful
Nice vid
nice tutorial!
like for the naruto ending :D
Blue bird
I guess I am ready to try after this good lesson
We believe in you! Send us questions if you're needing tips :)
CH.
I have started to watch lesson two, so maybe tomorrow I go outside and try to practice what I’ve learned so far.
Thanks for making such a good video on this. I'll be heading out with my unicycle for the second time today and this will be my guide. I'm posting my own videos on how the learning is coming along. My unicycle is a used one I got for 20 bucks. Not sure it's the best fit, but we'll see 🥴
Awesome, I'll try to check them out and give some tips!
Awesome Tutorial, I'm new@ this. First half hour of practice I have rubbed skin off my inner left ankle, leaving me with a bloody ankle. lol I was just wondering if this is common 4 Beginners or am I doing something particularly wrong? ????Ive now applied a Bandage + Leg warmer... coz I am hooked & want 2 keep @ it. ;-)
I used soccer shin guards when I was learning. Yes, you will get some minor injuries like this. It means you are not simply jumping off the unicycle. That you are trying to "stay on" and work through the balance. Keep on.
Awesome tutorial! I have been an electric unicyclist for over 5 years now and wanted to learn the original unicycle. I learned the electric unicycle in 3 hours. I hope to be able to learn this in a short amount of time too. What is a good tire size to learn on? Any tips on the shape of the seat?Any specific models to recommend?
I think a good size the majority of people learn to ride on is 20 inch wheels, and I suggest a sun flat top or something similar like a qu-ax for beginners!
Thanks for the tips
Thanks for the comment :)
I have really benefited from these series of videos and am now able to unicycle. I had gotten my unicycle beginning of 2020 but these videos helped me a lot to speed up the progress. But there's lots of glass around when he was teaching the assisted stuff. :D Not a good idea for beginners to practise around all that glass. haha.
Thanks!
Hi Chris, I have found your videos incredibly informative. I started trying to ride a unicycle years ago. Then I had back issues. Ive got the bug back and really want to get back into unicycling. Unfortunately I started learning to mount the unicycle with the pedals in the dead position, so now Im in the position of trying to re-learn how to mount the unicycle from stage 1 :(. Any advice on how to progress with getting the pressure correct one the starting foot?????
I’ve found it easier using a wall and a broom 🧹, then I tried just broom and it’s sooo much easier for me (so if you keep falling off like me then try with a broom) unless you find it harder...?
Enjoyed the video! Keep it up :)
Grazie veramente utile per imparare
Ngā mihi e hoa :)
CH
I am on day two of learning. Watched your video multiple times. I can go fairly well in one direction assisted against the wall but coming back the other way it is very difficult. Should I get very proficient assisted assisted both ways, or is that not really important as the very next step is to be unassisted? Call your videos are awesome! I am 53 and this has been a lifelong dream to learn how to ride a unicycle and I’m going to do it
Another unicyclist in NZ :o
I have a friend that's looking to get into unicycling, but it seems the store that I got mine from years back is no longer around these days. Where would you recommend purchasing a unicycle from in Auckland/NZ without paying through the nose to get it shipped from AU/US? Great video too, I will be sending it to him for when he gets one :D
In reply to the unicycles I own: I have a 20 inch QU-AX MUnicycle which I learned on and a newer 26 inch Nimbus II which I am in love with.
Wish you had done this video two weeks ago when I started to learn ! Now I'm trying to master the free mount, would be cool to have the next video rn cuz I think in two weeks I should be able to do it already 😂😂 I'm just ahead of your schedule, such a pity 😭
Haha! Classic, well, maybe by episode 3 we'll hit even! Although, that episode is still very basic, episode 4 miiiight have something for you. We'll get there :)
-Chris H
@@PrettyGoodChannel hahaha thanks ! although i think i have hit a plateau right now... I can ride straight ahead and turn slightly, but as soon as i go on the sidewalk I panic because it's much narrower and i'm afraid to hit the cars on the side ahaha. And free mounting is something on its own, gotta persevere but it's hard !
what type of Uni are you using?
That was amazing!!!!!