The Inmotion V12 HT (HT stands for high torque) is an electric unicycle, or EUC, and is a notable departure from its predecessor, the V11. The V11 is a fun wheel, and one of my favorites, built around an 18-inch tire with air suspension; the V12, however, opts for a 16-inch wheel with no suspension. This makes the V12 quite maneuverable, with the footpegs lower to the ground. It takes some inspiration from its other predecessor, the V10, with LED lights on the sides and a built-in Bluetooth speaker, while introducing a few upgrades.
The V12 HT is remarkably agile and responsive. It’s wider than the V11, which feels better between your feet. The user-friendly touchscreen is a major standout, making it easy to make adjustments. The display is bright enough to see in direct sunlight and provides essential information at a glance, such as current speed and battery percentage.
There is also an Inmotion iOS-Android app to change settings, check battery status and update firmware. You can also turn on the lights, sound the horn and log rides. If necessary, Inmotion can remotely access the EUC via the app to diagnose and solve problems.
The EUC offers an optional anti-theft feature that requires a passcode to turn on and enables self-balancing. As for the lights, the V12 has four LEDs for the headlight and a few adjustable ones along the sides. The rear brake lights are narrow and run vertically, making them difficult to see from a distance. The V12 also has a long trolley handle, making it easy to walk around, and a kill button built into the handle to turn off the engine when you’re lifting it over a step or similar obstacle. There are also USB Type-A and Type-C ports for charging mobile devices.
Again, the HT stands for high torque, which gives it more power on hills and allows it to reach speeds of up to 37 mph. There is an Inmotion V12 HS (high-speed) model for those who want a faster ride; this one can reach speeds of over 40 mph. While the two models look the same, the HT has a hybrid tire while the HS has a street tire.
The display and handle of the V12 HT.
EUCs are more compact in design than electric scooters, but are still capable of high speeds and good range. The V12 HT, for example, has an estimated range of over 60 miles on a full charge, and takes about 9 hours to charge from zero to 100%. The 60-mile claim varies depending on the speed you’re traveling, rider size, wind, and terrain. The HT can support a rider weight of up to 265 pounds, while the unit itself weighs 69 pounds. The V12 is well-built and can handle wet weather, with an IPX5 rating.
Front view of the V12 HT.
The V12’s footpads are large enough to support my size 12 feet nicely. The pads are height adjustable, but my only gripe is the grip tape; I prefer the metal honeycomb hexagon footpads that have become more common lately. The V12 HT can support them, but it’s an added expense.
Both the HS and HT models are powered by a 100-volt, 1,750-watt-hour battery. However, the HS has a 2,500-watt motor, while the HT has a 2,800-watt motor. This allows the HT to climb a 45-degree incline, while the HS can climb a lower incline of 35 degrees. How efficiently each model achieves this depends on the size of the rider.
Side view of the V12 HT.
During testing, it was easier to launch with some momentum than from a standstill, especially on steep hills, which is to be expected. On the other hand, there were times when I thought, “Giddy up, horsey!” as I waited for the eponymous high-torque engine to kick in. (When you put that in the name, that’s what I want to feel.) Otherwise, it’s a great ride.
Overall, the Inmotion V12 HT combines agility, functionality, and comfort well, making it an attractive choice for riders looking for a versatile electric unicycle experience. I know they’re not as accessible as an electric scooter or e-bike, but I love the freedom you feel on an EUC and encourage everyone to try one at least once before dismissing it. Having your hands free combined with the feeling of almost gliding across the sidewalk is hard to put into words. Plus, EUCs like the Inmotion V12 HT can be taken to places where bikes or scooters aren’t allowed.
