February 2011 Notable Toys — Bicycles & Tricycles

Gyroscope technology is behind this new self-balancing electric unicycle. Externally, the Solowheel consists of a wheel and two foldable foot platforms. Internally, the inner workings of the Solowheel use gyro sensors, a 1000-Watt motor and a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. All this technology is housed under a slim case with leg pads and a handle for easy carrying. 100% battery operated. Lean forward to go forward and backward when you want to slow down. The lithium ion battery recaptures energy when going downhill or slowing down. It has a two hour battery life and can be fully recharged in forty-five minutes. The Solowheel is easy to learn and very portable, weighing twenty pounds.

The Sbyke is a rear-steering scooter that is self standing and weight shift controlled, making it easy for both children and adults to ride. It features interchangeable stem lengths so it can be used by short and tall alike. The front wheel, a standard bicycle wheel, makes the Sbyke more durable and able to cover rough terrain than a traditional scooter. Holds up to 250 lbs.
Awards: Dr. Toy 2012 Best Green Product, Dr. Toy 2012 10 Best Active Products, 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Children’s Products, Parenting Magazine Best in Play award at Toy Fair 2012, and ISPO 2012 Showcase Winner.
— As of 9/21/2012 this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 1 review on Amazon.com. Pros: Well made; glides smoothly; fun for kids and adults.

Cycle Flyr is a home playground ride that combines the fun of riding a bicycle with the "flying sensation" of a carousel. Kids pedal on the bicycle-style seat and are lifted into the air, rotating for as long as they keep pedaling. "There are no similar products on the market and this is a first one-of-a-kind playground/backyard ride," Michael Bishop, partner at Cycle Flyr, told TDmonthly. (Prototype Only.)

The Early Rider  is a “balance bike,” which is a pedal-less bike that helps teach kids to balance and self-correct at their own speed. Now available in the US for the holidays, the Early Rider has been the #1 selling balance bike in Europe.  Unlike most other balance bikes on the market, the Early Rider features “Fat Boy” rear tires for extra stability and comfort and it comes in three sizes, for smaller and larger preschoolers and kindergartners.