Well this is what some are trying to call the “Motorcycle of the Future”. Boy I hate to say but if this is what a motorcycle is going to look like in the future then I don’t think I will be riding.
Coming off of the huge blockbuster hit Transformers, this is an idea from a 17yr old that was his science project.
It looks more like a Segway and it is totally electric. The name is Uno and it balances upright on two parallel wheels. But the operator would sit on it like a motorcycle rider who was doing a wheelie.
To control it, the rider leans forwards or backwards to accelerate and slow down and the handlebars to turn – a collection of computer-controlled accelerometers and gyroscopes making constant adjustments to keep it from falling over. The Uno works in this fashion up to 15 mph, making it a perfect fit for use in tight spaces, both indoors and outside, but limiting its ability as a full-fledged commuter vehicle.
At high speeds, a “dicycle” like the Uno operating in this mode isn’t stable enough to handle large bumps and deep holes in the pavement. The Uno overcomes this issue with the ability to deploy a third wheel forward, converting it into something closer to a conventional motorcycle. As the front forks extend, the rear wheels squeeze close together, effectively turning the Uno into a two wheeler, and allowing it to safely travel at highway speeds with the speed controlled by a twist throttle and hand brakes.
The latest version of the Uno is classified as a scooter, and has a top speed of 35 mph running on old fashioned lead acid batteries. There are plans to replace them with a high-tech lithium-ion pack that will give it a top speed of 60 miles per hour and a range of 35 miles per charge. Talk of production as early as 2012. Starting price range est. at $7000
Even if they can’t hit that price point, urban owners of the Uno can potentially save money on parking by simply tucking in the front wheel, riding it onto the elevator, and parking it next to the bed or TV, I guess they need to add an alarm clock option.
I know that you are all just itching to go buy one so here is the website and you can even go put a deposit down on yours today.
