What we’re about
Our aim is to make sure you are not too tired... (get it? Two tired? Like a bike?) 🤓
Believe it or not, long ago in the mid-noughties, there was a flourishing mountain unicycling group in Santa Barbara. There were regularly 6–10 unicyclists on weekend trail rides. Alas, the group did not stand the test of time. Now we are few.
However, we often meet enthusiastic people on the trails that ‘used to’ ride a unicycle and would be interested in relearning. Plus, riding trails on a unicycle is probably the most fun you can have without laughing – and a punishing workout too. So, in the spirit of, “If you build it, they will come…”, and a dose of unrealistic optimism, we present the attempted reboot of the Santa Barbara Unicycle Group. We are also aiming to have the smallest Meetup group ever. So, we should at least accomplish one of these goals.
We are not clowns or circus unicyclists, and we do not juggle (though some may).
We ride three general types of unis, categorized by wheel size since that, along with the crank length, determines the gear ratio, which in turn, governs the speed and the available torque of the machine
These are the three main types (plus one other type)
• Mountain Unicycles (Muni)
Mountain unicycling is a technical sport. It is all about navigating the most technical terrain without committing a UPD (unplanned dismount). It is not a race and generally occurs at a walking pace. Munis can actually navigate terrain that a mountain bike cannot, due to the ability to stop, hop up on or around objects, ride backwards, etc. Tire sizes are from 24” to 27.5” x 3”, cranks are long to facilitate high torque. Maximum speed is about 6mph
• Road Unicycle (Coker)
Cokers are for riding long distances. They have a 36” wheel and short cranks. Cruising speed is about 12mph with 15mph attainable at a gallop. I have ridden 50+ miles in one day on this many times.
• Flatland Unicycle (Trials)
Trials unis have a 19” fat tire and are used for urban riding and tricks. This is the best size to learn anything new on. Everything is easier on a smaller wheel.
• Additionally, there are also Training Unicycles (Bicycles)
These are what everyone starts off on. They have a second training wheel attached and also have a ‘handlebar’ to aid in steering. Once you become competent on one of these, you can dump it an advance to one of the first three.
We intend to post weekly rides which will mostly be Muni or Coker depending on the weather.
If anyone has the basic skills and desire to try Muni, they can DM me for some personal mentoring.
We will also set up some occasional clinics for people that have never ridden but would like to learn.
So, if you find any of this appealing, sign up.
Disclaimer:
A unicycle is an inherently unstable mode of transport. Gravity is a major consideration. Anytime the tire is not directly under your center of gravity (or very close), that is a problem that will require your immediate attention, or you are going to fall down. As everyone knows, falls can be dangerous and should be minimized or avoided entirely. It is incumbent upon everyone to ride within their own skill level and use their good judgement when riding. A helmet, gloves and leg protection is recommended.
