Coogee Rolls: why almost nobody rides the electric unicycle

Coogee Rolls argues the electric unicycle (EUC) is the most capable and compact personal electric vehicle but remains a niche because of four concrete barriers. Performance-wise the EUC outclasses other PEVs: Rolls cites the 'in-motion P6' as an example, calling it 'more powerful than the Tesla Model S Class,' noting it can reach '90 miles per hour' and 'weighs as much as a dog.' Modern EUCs have grown dramatically versus 15 years ago — 'up to nine times faster' with '20 times the range' and even added suspension — and small manufacturers have driven a sport-rider scene while Segway pivoted away after an overhyped start (Rolls traces Segway's failure back to 2001) and now makes '80% of the world's kick-scooters.'

Rolls enumerates the four main reasons people avoid EUCs and responds to each: 1) Learning curve — many riders need 'at least a few hours' if they only know bikes, while skateboarders can adapt in minutes; 2) Perceived danger — EUCs can be 'dangerous,' many wheels exceed '50 miles per hour,' and true high-speed competence typically requires 'thousands of miles' and experience with crashes; protective gear is advised; 3) Cost — '3000 bucks' is a common sticker price; if the EUC is a primary vehicle it can last 'about five years' and provide 'tens of thousands of miles,' but for hobbyists it feels expensive; 4) Legal gray area — laws define vehicles by 'handlebars, foot decks, and wheel count,' so EUCs often aren't specified and in practice 'most cops don't give a (beep)' unless riding recklessly.

Rolls notes partial mitigations: simpler two-wheel trainer devices let beginners 'pop up on one wheel' quickly and understand balance before upgrading, and manufacturers are iterating on usability and safety. His conclusion: the EUC will probably never reach bicycle or motorcycle popularity, but the small percentage who adopt it can experience what he calls the closest thing to 'being a cyborg.'

[inferred from visual references] The video likely shows riding demos, crash footage, the in-motion P6 on varied terrain, historical Segway footage, and a demonstration of the two-wheel trainer.