From an outsider’s perspective, I understand entirely how electric unicycles might seem intimidating to someone who has never ridden one. How on earth can someone balance on just one wheel? It only took me about 20 minutes to learn, using a handrail, and I rode home hands-free. If I can do it, pretty much anyone can. It’s just a matter of your body adapting to something new.
The Inmotion V13 Challenger is far from an ideal choice for beginners. Although I have heard stories of people learning to ride on one, it’s almost three feet tall and weighs 110 pounds. Plus, it has a top speed of 56 mph. Yet, it’s those very features that make it appealing to experienced riders. When riding something that fast, you want as much of the device between your legs as possible, which is where the height and width matter. While the weight isn’t ideal for carrying, it’s excellent for keeping the wheel grounded.
Yes, the V13 requires both a physical and financial commitment, given its $1,899 price tag. If you’re looking for an excellent EUC that rewards veterans who can ride vehicles like this, the V13 is well worth it.
Design and features
The V13 Challenger features optimized weight distribution and a sleek form factor. The V13 is also designed to be one of the safest wheels on the market, featuring a robust, innovative battery management system and redundant sensors to prevent wheel cutoff. The large 22-inch hybrid tire, combined with air suspension, absorbs bumps, while the wheel’s 110-pound weight ensures stability and keeps it grounded. It’s also relatively tall.
The V13 is powered by a 3,024Wh 126-volt battery and driven by a 10,000-watt peak (300nm of torque) motor, reaching a top speed of 56 mph. The Inmotion charges in between 4 and 6 hours using its 5-amp charger. The vehicle has an estimated travel range of 88 miles, which varies based on speed, rider size, terrain, wind conditions and other variables. The V13 could easily exceed top speed, but this cap is in place to prevent wheel cutoff. This safeguard ensures that if a rider continuously tries to accelerate, the wheel won’t throw them off, so it remains within its limits to maintain forward motion and balance.
However, additional speed limits can be set within the app and directly on the unit.
Like other Inmotion products, the V13 connects via Bluetooth with the iOS/Android app for extended functionality and performance tracking. The in-app statistics provide detailed insights to monitor your performance, battery status, system health, temperatures and usage habits.
As a safety precaution, the wheel doesn’t reach 56 mph right out of the box — riders must first agree to unlock the top speed through the app. Once the set speed is reached, the wheel will tilt back and emit a beep to alert the rider.
The V13 also features a small 2.4-inch LCD touch display at the head of the unit, allowing riders to check their current speed, battery level and adjust settings without needing their phone. One of my other favorite features is setting a passcode to power on the wheel — perfect for leaving it in the stroller section while out. This ensures no one can turn it on without authorization.
The protective cage around the front and back helps safeguard the unit from falls and impacts. The front one also doubles as the rest stand when not in use. An aftermarket stand is available that lets the unit tilt onto its backside. I’ve also used the cage to lift the unit into and out of the car and up the occasional flight of stairs.
The flip-down footpads on each side of the wheel are sturdy and spacious, providing a good grip and comfortably accommodating my size 12 shoes.
The V13 includes a daytime running halo light that stays on while powered up, a powerful 18-watt headlight for low-light conditions, and a rear brake light for added visibility.
Lastly, the V13 features two charging ports and Type-A and Type-C ports for mobile device charging.
Performance
So, how do you ride a vehicle like the V13? Like all EUCs, it stays upright surprisingly simply: the wheel handles the forward and backward balance, while the rider controls left and right. Shifting your weight onto your toes propels the unit forward while leaning back onto your heels slows it down or puts it in reverse. It’s like riding a bicycle; once your body adapts to the mechanics, you’ll wonder why you didn’t learn sooner (on this one, or another).
I’ve logged over 1,300 miles on the V13 — and counting. Despite having other options available to me, the Inmotion V13 remains one of my favorite wheels for daily use (as long as I don’t have to carry it). I’ve taken it on trips to Minnesota, South Carolina, Chicago and throughout New York City. One of the reasons I love bringing it on my travels is that it doesn’t take up much space in an SUV (compared with a bicycle, which is even bulkier). Plus, no matter where I am, it provides ample power, speed and a large enough tire to handle most roads and trails.
As a bigger rider, I appreciate the sense of stability and security that a wheel this size provides. However, I must note that this wheel feels like a rocket at high speeds, though it feels stable and straight as an arrow. Leaning into turns takes effort when first getting used to the wheel, but it becomes smooth sailing after some time and practice.
As of writing this, my personal top speed on the V13 is 48 mph — if only I had more room to push it further.
Trolley handle and screen display
Areas for improvement
The V13 has a trolley handle, making it easy to walk the unit around. Overall, it’s solidly built, but over time, I found that the handle screws would loosen and needed to be tightened. This is a minor issue that a bit of Loctite can easily fix, but it’s worth mentioning.
Another consideration is the weight of the wheel, which may be a bit heavy for smaller/lighter riders to maneuver comfortably. Additionally, the suspension requires periodic checks, as it tends to lose air pressure over time. It would’ve been nice if you could check the pressure without connecting the supplied pump. As with any vehicle, though, regular maintenance will help keep it performing at its best.
Standing front and side view
Verdict
When it comes to build quality, performance, speed and safety, the V13 undeniably deserves praise. Personally, I really like this wheel — it’s a fantastic option for larger riders looking to get into the game. It effortlessly handles bumpy streets, rough roads and grassy hills, delivering a smooth and stable ride.
I’ve ridden it fully geared up with a backpack that put me over the suggested 265-pound weight limit, and the V13 didn’t even flinch. With plenty of power to spare, this wheel is a rugged and reliable choice for those who need strength and capability in their ride.
