FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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From time to time, we are asked several questions repeatedly, so to help you get the answers quickly, we have listed the most common of these questions here, together with answers. We hope you find this useful. Of course, if you have any questions at all, feel free to call us or email us with your question. Airwheel New Zealand!
What is the difference between the X and Q series Airwheels?
The X series Airwheels have a single main wheel, where as the Q series have 2 main wheels side by side. There are advantages and disadvantages in having only 1 main wheel, and the Q series was designed to address these. The main advantage of having 2 wheels is that it increases side to side stability. This makes the Q series a little easier to learn (although the Q series doesn't come with the side training wheel) and a little more stable when travelling in a straight line. The advantage of having only 1 wheel per the X series, is that the single wheel configuration is lighter, a little more flexible and a little more agile. Everything else is the same however.
I am not sure whether to buy a X or Q series. What do you suggest?
The Q series have 2 wheels on the same axle, while the X series only has 1 wheel. The Q series is easier to learn although the X series does come with training wheels which also assists learning and balance. With one wheel the X series offers more agility.
How long does it take to learn?
From our experience, people of standard ability and balance can get going on the Q series (twin wheel) models with a very short period of time (30 minutes - 1 hour). The single wheeled models take a little longer (1 - 2 days) although they do come with stabilising wheels to assist learning.
What is the advantage of the X8?
The X8 has a larger diameter main wheel. This makes for a smoother ride, however, is a little harder for a beginner to master (because it is a little higher off the ground).
Where can I get spare parts and accessories for my Airwheel?
Airwheel New Zealand can supply parts for your Airwheel. Since Airwheels are new, there hasn't been a great demand for spares as yet but we can order them in for you.
Please tell me about charging the Airwheel?
The Airwheel power charger has built in safety features. For this reason you need to plug the charger into the Airwheel before you plug it into the wall and turn it on. You can charge the Airwheel with the device turned off. When charging the only light you will see is a small red light on the charger transformer. When the Airwheel is charged the light will go out or turn green. Give it about another 15 minutes after this and then you are good to go.
How fast and far does the Airwheel travel?
All Airwheels are rate limited to around 15Km/h. However, the distance they travel on a single charge, depends on several factors. The model and battery capacity of your Airwheel (ie, the larger capacity Q3's have bigger batteries than X3's for example), how much you weigh, the gradient and even how well you ride the Airwheel. However, we like to say, with an X3 - X6, you should get around 15 Km. With an X8 of a smaller Q3, you could expect around 18-20Km between charges. With a larger Q3, you could expect to travel around 30Km-40Km on a single charge.
The distance performance quoted for each model is based on testing at 30 degrees Celsius, testers weight of 60kg, ridden on a flat smooth indoor athletics track at a constant speed of 7km/h (half speed) with no tricks and correctly inflated tyres. Variation from these constants will naturally reduce the range of the Airwheel. So uphill, against the wind, heavier rider, rough surface, cold temperatures, higher speeds and underinflated tyres will all reduce the range. With regards to load, the range is reduced by approximately 2-3 km per additional 10kg of load.
How long does it take to charge the battery?
It depends on the Airwheel model, battery capacity and how discharged the battery is. The instruction manual goes into detail about charge times for your model, however, we use the following rough ball park. For an X3-X6, 1-2 Hrs will typically charge your battery to 80%. 2-3 Hours should fully charge your battery. For a larger model, eg a X8 of a larger Q3, 1-3 Hrs should charge your battery to 80%. 3-5 Hrs should fully charge your battery.
I have seen Airwheels sold cheaper online, why?
Short answer, it that they probably aren't genuine Airwheels. You can see the cheaper copies sold in places like Ebay, etc. The pictures look exactly the same (they often just use pictures of genuine Airhweels, but the quality definitely isn't the same. What you get is a poorly built, counterfeit, with poor stability and control logic, inferior components etc. We have heard of cheap copies, having razor sharp pedals, and cutting the ankles of users. We have seen footage of motors not cutting off power if the rider falls off (the copy Airwheel continues to dangerously spin out of control). There have been reports of imitation Airwheel batteries exploding in the boot of cars. The real Airwheel, has a quality finish, superior control logic, quality Japanese batteries and motors. They come with a 12 month warranty on the unit (with a 6 month warranty on the batteries and motor). Please, if you are considering an Airwheel, get a genuine Airwheel as sold through Airwheels New Zealand or our approved partners
How many charges do the batteries last for?
The genuine Airwheel battery (made in Japan), should last upto around 2000 charges or more. The immitation Airwheel batteries might only last upto around 500 charges. The genuine Airwheel battery is a quality Japanese made battery that won't overheat, explode leak.
Can the battery be replaced?
The battery of the Airwheel Self-balancing Unicycle can be replaced.
On what type of terrain can I ride the Airwheels?
The Airwheel Self-balancing Unicycle is highly manoeuvrable and allows you to easily navigate over rough pavement and around obstacles. However, we do recommend users to learn at a steady pace before taking the wheels through tough terrains.
How safe is it?
As with any transportation device, riders must use proper safety precautions. All riders should wear trainers and approved helmet/ other safety gear such as knee pads when operating the Airwheel self balancing electric unicycle. Always ride under control at a speed that is safe for you and those around you. Please consult the manual for additional safety information.
Is there a weight limit?
The maximum capacity is 265 lbs- 120kg(19 stone).
Where can I use it?
Due to the fact that currently NZ Law has no classification for modern devices like Airwheels they are categorised as unclassified vehicles. The same rules apply as per products like SegWays when they are not being used as mobility devices. Please note that the purchase and use of all Airwheel devices from Airwheels New Zealand or it's authorised suppliers places the responsibility for use on the rider and we accept no responsibility for inappropriate use. Please also ensure that you are courteous to all other persons at all times and comply with all New Zealand legislation.
Do you have a showroom where I can see the Airwheel?
Yes please see our authorised suppliers page.
