Unicycles

[mudskipper]

I saw one in the local bike shop for about £80. I was very tempted, but fear it would have been a five minute wonder.

[DaveB]

Very handy though to keep one in the car boot if it's as easy as riding a normal bicycle once one gets the knack of it.

I imagine freewheeling down steep hills would always be a problem though, unless it's just a case of leaning backwards a bit.

Seriously, can anyone here ride a unicycle? Is it relaxing and "second nature" once you mastered it, or a constant challenge like walking a high wire?

I've tried it and it's really not easy, respect to those who can. People who can say it does become second nature eventually.

There are no brakes. To slow down you apply resistance to the pedals with your legs. No coasting, it's like a fixed gear bike. The cranks are on a fixed axle. If the wheels turn the cranks turn, the faster you go the faster they turn. Going down hill is an exercise in control, you can't just freewheel down (and you'd have no brakes if you did).