Enthralled by Unicycles

When I was in college, I had a classmate who was something of a campus novelty, because she was the only person who used a unicycle to go from one class to another. Her use of an conventional mode of transport and her perky personality earned her the name Miss One-wheeler; a moniker she was proud to carry.

As I watch her pedal back and forth the campus, I wondered how such an awkward-looking contraption that is deemed useful only in parades and circuses could be considered a practical or even perhaps comfortable ride for short distances. In-depth research about unicycles, however, lead me to discover that there are actually organizations around the world where unicyclists can converge and participate in long-distance tours in places like China, Canada, Laos and even the Upper Peninsula. Some rides last for more than four days and covers 200 km of dirt road.

My newfound interest in unicycles inspired me to write a series of essays∞ about its diehard enthusiasts. One of my works focused on a solo unicyclist who traveled 700 miles to raise funds for his college tuition. My other essays are about the experiences of club members; what they’ve seen, learned and why they participate in long treks in the name of unicycle culture. My essays also include commentaries from the family members and support team of the unicyclists.

Although unicycle clubs or tours are organized mostly for the enjoyment and training of its members, there are also moments when they raise money for charity. One of the successful and well-know fundraising event is The Missing Wheels. Organized to create awareness for children with limited mobility, The Missing Wheels has successfully raised enough money to purchase new wheelchairs and other equipment.

For more information on unicycle events and tours, check http://www.unicycling.com/∞, http://www.unicyclingusa.org/∞ or http://www.unicyclist.com/∞.