LIke the Segway, the Gyrowheel uses gyroscopes to stabilise an object on wheels, using them to detect the when the vehicle is out of balance. Unlike the Segway, however, the Gyrowheel has a disk inside that spins in whatever direction is needed, creating a force that stabilizes the bike, even at low speeds. It’s not the wheel itself that moves, it’s the disk inside. According to Gyrobike, the manufacturer, this is called “gyroscopic precession.” I call it “black magic.”
Gyrobike says that their 12″ wheel—which will be available on December 1 for around $US100— will make any kid learn to ride a bike in 30 minutes to an hour, teaching “correct riding technique” in the process. A 16″ model will be available in spring 2010. [Gyrobike via Daily Mail]