Chapter 2: The Unique Unicycle

Often referred to as the "human-powered cart," the unicycle symbolizes human-driven transportation. With its single wheel, it demands that the rider constantly balance—a skill that, while challenging for animals, comes naturally to humans. Surprisingly, unicycles appear to be a unique feature of Chinese culture. While the Western world developed the bicycle, which also relies on human power but boasts two wheels, mastering the unicycle is not a feat easily achieved by trained animals.

Historically, as early as the Han and Wei dynasties, one-wheeled carts were in use, pushed or pulled manually. These carts featured racks on either side for carrying goods or passengers. Notably, the "wooden ox and flowing horse," attributed to the ancient strategist Zhuge Liang, was essentially a form of unicycle. This design, with only one wheel touching the ground, was perfectly suited for narrow paths and could transport an entire year's worth of grain.

Chapter 3: Innovation in Motion

The unicycle stands as one of China's remarkable inventions, widely utilized throughout history. While the West predominantly adapted wheel technology for windmills, the Chinese innovatively integrated sails onto their unicycles to harness wind power. Emperor Liang Yuan, in his work "Jin Lou Zi," noted, "The tall Cangwu Shu could construct windmills capable of transporting thirty people over vast distances in a single day."

The English poet John Milton also referenced this in "Paradise Lost," stating, "In the land of silk, the Chinese people ride vine carts with sails." In the late 18th century, Bram, an explorer with the Dutch East India Company, traveled extensively through China, developing a keen interest in traditional Chinese technologies. He even collected artifacts, including unicycles, at considerable expense to bring back to the United States.

Bram vividly described the Chinese unicycle in his travel diary, noting how the wheel occupied a significant portion of the vehicle's design, mounted on a support approximately four to five inches wide. The wheel's diameter was substantial, with short, numerous spokes lending it a broad outer structure. Unlike standard wheels, the outer edge of this wheel protruded, making it particularly suited for muddy terrains.

He admired the "uniqueness" and "simplicity" of the unicycle, commenting, "The wheel is centered on the load, allowing the entire weight to rest on the axle. The cartman needs only to push it forward and maintain balance." However, navigating a heavily loaded unicycle while keeping balance proved challenging, particularly on the unpaved roads of the time. Uphill sections were particularly taxing, and halting the cart on downhill slopes was no easy task.

Even in flat regions, a more complex version known as the "sail-driven cart" existed. Bram encountered this variant in Shandong Province.

Chapter 4: The Skill of Mastery

Chinese author Wang Xiaobo once recounted a fable about mastering unicycle riding in rural areas. He suggested that those who could conquer the art of riding could navigate even the roughest roads with ease. Yet, regardless of one's proficiency, there was always the risk of falling.

However, rural dwellers concentrated on perfecting their unicycle skills without contemplating the necessity of road improvements. The notion was that with better roads, the risk of falling would diminish, and the need for mastering unicycle techniques would fade. Yet, a clever mindset celebrated the skill of unicycle riding without genuinely addressing the need for better road construction.

The rise of AI today, coupled with the invention of the Chinese unicycle, invites deep reflection on the nature of progress and innovation.

The first video, titled "Building a Camera Controlled Ball Wheel Unicycle AI!", showcases the fascinating intersection of technology and traditional unicycle design, revealing how AI is enhancing this unique mode of transportation.

The second video, "AI Rides EUC Repair Shop // Samuel // BRONX NEW YORK," provides insights into modern unicycle mechanics and repairs, illustrating the ongoing evolution of this ancient invention in today's world.