It is an experimental balancing bike, not a conventional production e-bike: three powered omni wheels move a single sphere beneath the frame, while an IMU and PID controller make motor adjustments to keep the bike upright. New Atlas reported on the prototype on March 1, 2026, noting that steering and electrical problems remained unresolved.
How the one-ball bike moves and balances
British inventor and YouTuber James Bruton built the one-ball bike as a follow-up to an earlier two-ball design, according to New Atlas’s March 1, 2026 report. Instead of two separate driven balls, the newer prototype uses one bright-red sphere beneath the rider and frame.
Three custom omni wheels sit vertically around the sphere’s upper surface, spaced equally apart. Their motors can change speed and direction to move the ball horizontally. Each omni wheel has two rows of 18 passive rollers, allowing it to exert force in different directions. New Atlas reports 216 rollers across the three wheels, with individual bearings, custom aluminum hubs and TPU tires.
An inertial measurement unit (IMU) senses tilt. A proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller uses that information to adjust the three motors, correcting the frame’s lean in both the front-to-back and side-to-side directions. The balancing system is therefore active: the bike relies on continual motor corrections rather than a stable arrangement of wheels beneath it.
#1 Best Overall
- Advanced Electric Unicycle Technology: Self-balancing electric unicycle designed for adults seeking secure and effortlessly enjoyable urban mobility
- Impressive Range and Power: Features upgraded 83 miles range capability with 9000W peak motor for extended rides and powerful performance
- Superior Suspension System: Equipped with 100mm suspension for smooth riding experience across various terrains including off-road and city streets
- Safety Certified Design: UL2272 certified electric unicycle ensuring high safety standards with intelligent safety systems and intuitive learning mode for confident exploration
- Versatile Urban Mobility Solution: Lightweight and portable design transforms city commutes by effortlessly navigating streets while eliminating parking constraints, suitable for city commutes and extreme terrain
Reported prototype specifications
The figures below are specifications reported by New Atlas, not independently verified measurements:
| Component | Reported detail |
|---|---|
| Drive | Three custom omni wheels, each powered by a motor rated up to 2 kW |
| Omni-wheel rollers | Two rows of 18 passive rollers per wheel; 216 across all three |
| Battery arrangement | Six LiPo battery packs wired in series pairs to deliver 50 volts |
| Frame | 40 × 40 mm aluminum extrusion, with many 3D-printed structural parts |
| Balance control | IMU tilt data processed by a PID controller that adjusts the motors |
Why steering is the hard part
Keeping the frame upright and choosing where the bike travels are different problems. The report says the earlier two-ball design could steer by driving its balls in opposite directions. With only one ball, Bruton’s early steering attempt was, in his words, “No, it’s simply uncontrollable.”
Rank #2
- The Safest Electric Unicycle (EUC): The INMOTION V9 is the world’s first e-unicycle to achieve full-device UL certification, setting a new safety benchmark for personal transportation
- The Smartest Electric One-Wheel: Featuring industry-first Ride Connect technology, the V9 enables app-based remote control, real-time GPS tracking, and one-touch locking for enhanced security. With anti-theft efficiency improved by 90%, it gives you complete control and peace of mind
- The Lightest and Slimmest Suspension EUC: Weighing just 50.7 lbs, the V9 is ultra-portable for commuting to the office, school, or gym. Its slim 7.34-inch profile fits easily into car trunks. Equipped with a 60mm aluminum air suspension system, the V9 ensures a smooth ride over various terrains
- Group Ride Audio Sync: Equipped with dual Bluetooth speakers and multi-device syncing, this monowheel lets you and your riders enjoy synchronized music. Whether on a group outing or solo ride, it turns every journey into a fun, interactive experience, creating unforgettable memories
- Fast Charging and Reverse Charging: The V9 supports a 10A fast charger for rapid charging, enabling a full recharge in just 1 hour. It also offers 20W reverse charging through USB and Type-C ports, with a capacity equivalent to charging an iPhone 15 up to 50 times. This ensures you're always powered up on the go
The interim workaround described by New Atlas was a large foam fin that catches air and biases the bike’s travel. That is an experimental workaround, not evidence of precise, dependable steering. The report does not establish that the steering problem was later solved.
Other problems and what the report establishes
New Atlas also reports that static charge generated by the plastic ball and rubber rollers could interfere with electronics and cause unexpected shutdowns. That is a practical reliability issue for a system whose balance depends on sensors and motor control continuing to work.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #3
- [5000W RATED MOTOR] A high-power 5000W rated motor delivers responsive acceleration and confident performance for experienced riders on paved roads and mixed terrain.
- [2664Wh SAMSUNG 50S BATTERY] 144 Samsung 50S cells and smart BMS protection support long-distance riding. Up to 93 miles of range is based on controlled testing; actual range varies with rider weight, speed, terrain, temperature, and riding conditions.
- [100MM 4-POINT DNM SUSPENSION] Adjustable 4-point DNM suspension with 100mm travel helps absorb bumps and improves comfort and control on uneven roads and trails.
- [20-INCH ALL-TERRAIN SETUP] The 20-inch 2.75-14 tire, adjustable pedals, and stable chassis are designed for confident handling across urban roads, gravel, and mixed terrain.
- [DUAL CHARGING AND SMART FEATURES] Dual charging ports support up to 20A charging with compatible chargers. KingSong App connectivity, OTA updates, smart BMS, integrated lighting, Bluetooth audio, and a trolley handle add practical everyday control.
The report says the project’s code and CAD files are open-source. It does not establish a verified repository, a complete bill of materials, compatibility with retail components, or later project progress. Generic robotics omni wheels may be similar in concept, but the report does not show that off-the-shelf wheels fit or replace the custom parts.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is it a usable electric bicycle?
Not on the evidence in the report. The one-ball machine is best understood as an engineering prototype demonstrating a way to balance and move a frame on a sphere. Its steering challenge and static-related shutdowns matter directly to real-world control and reliability. New Atlas does not establish that it is commercially available, road-legal, safety-certified, or suitable for routine transport.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Safe & Reliable: Certified to ANSI/CAN/UL 2272
- Unlike traditional electric unicycles, which typically have one wheel and one tire, the INMOTION E20 features a single wheel with dual tires. This innovative design enables lateral self-balancing, allowing users to learn to ride in just 3 minutes, making it the simplest and most beginner-friendly EUC available
- The E20 is designed for simplicity and stability. Our proprietary dynamic self-balancing algorithm maintains both front and rear balance, significantly reducing the risk of tipping over. Enjoy a fun and worry-free ride with confidence
- With a 38% larger tire diameter than regular self-balancing vehicles, the E20 easily conquers obstacles without compromising balance. Inflatable inner tubes enhance shock absorption compared to solid tires, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride
Rank #4
- The Safest Electric Unicycle (EUC): The INMOTION V9 is the world’s first e-unicycle to achieve full-device UL certification, setting a new safety benchmark for personal transportation
- The Smartest Electric One-Wheel: Featuring industry-first Ride Connect technology, the V9 enables app-based remote control, real-time GPS tracking, and one-touch locking for enhanced security. With anti-theft efficiency improved by 90%, it gives you complete control and peace of mind
- The Lightest and Slimmest Suspension EUC: Weighing just 50.7 lbs, the V9 is ultra-portable for commuting to the office, school, or gym. Its slim 7.34-inch profile fits easily into car trunks. Equipped with a 60mm aluminum air suspension system, the V9 ensures a smooth ride over various terrains
- Group Ride Audio Sync: Equipped with dual Bluetooth speakers and multi-device syncing, this monowheel lets you and your riders enjoy synchronized music. Whether on a group outing or solo ride, it turns every journey into a fun, interactive experience, creating unforgettable memories
- Fast Charging and Reverse Charging: The V9 supports a 10A fast charger for rapid charging, enabling a full recharge in just 1 hour. It also offers 20W reverse charging through USB and Type-C ports, with a capacity equivalent to charging an iPhone 15 up to 50 times. This ensures you're always powered up on the go
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
