Technology
Is this new electric unicycle a sidewalk terror or misunderstood machine?
Electric unicycles are sparking a heated debate: Are they sidewalk terrors or misunderstood machines? While electric scooters have already raised concerns about safety and public nuisance, electric unicycles seem to take these issues to a whole new level. With their challenging control, these devices appear to be accidents waiting to happen.
Would you feel safe sharing a sidewalk with one of these? On the road, the risks multiply as riders struggle to maintain balance and visibility in traffic. As this trend gains traction, the question remains: are we looking at a new wave of personal transportation that puts the public at risk?
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People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
The rise of electric unicycles
Electric unicycles (EUCs) are gaining popularity as a unique form of personal transportation. Unlike traditional unicycles, these devices are powered by electric motors and are designed to be ridden standing up.
One of the latest models, the InMotion E20, promises to be the easiest-to-learn EUC on the market. With its dual-tire design and self-balancing technology, the E20 aims to eliminate the common challenges of learning and falling associated with traditional unicycles.
People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
IS IT A 3-WHEELER OR A 2-WHEEL E-SCOOTER? HOW ABOUT BOTH
Is the InMotion E20 a beginner-friendly electric unicycle?
The InMotion E20 is an electric unicycle that deviates from traditional designs by featuring one wheel and two tires. This unique configuration allows for lateral self-balancing, which significantly reduces the common challenges associated with learning to ride a unicycle. As a result, users can easily mount, dismount and maneuver the E20, often learning to ride it in just three minutes.
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People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
WHY THIS MULTI-PURPOSE ELECTRIC SCOOTER MIGHT SOON BE COMING TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Stability and user-friendliness of the electric unicycle
The E20 is designed to be stable and user-friendly, making it one of the simplest electric unicycles available. It employs a proprietary self-balancing algorithm that maintains both front and rear balance, which helps to minimize the risk of tipping over. Riders can lean forward to accelerate, remain steady while standing still and lean backward to brake.
People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
A PEDAL-ELECTRIC HYBRID THAT’S HALF BIKE, HALF CAR
Performance and safety features of the electric unicycle
With a top speed of up to 12.4 mph, the E20 is capable of tackling various terrains, including urban roads and gentle slopes. Its long-range capability allows for travel of up to 18.6 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for short-distance commuting needs. The company says safety is a priority for InMotion, and the E20 is equipped with over 20 safety features, including automatic shutdown in the event of a fall.
A man carrying an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
The electric unicycle’s smart features and connectivity
The unicycle also includes a high-quality Bluetooth speaker, allowing users to connect their smartphones and enjoy music while riding. Additionally, the E20 offers smart app connectivity, enabling riders to personalize features such as acceleration and braking response.
People riding electric unicycles (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
The electric unicycle’s robust build and aesthetic appeal
Despite its beginner-friendly design, the E20 is still a robust machine. It weighs 30 pounds and accommodates riders up to 220 pounds. The unit features RGB ambient lighting for added visibility and aesthetic appeal, along with a headlight and a braking taillight for safety. The InMotion E20 is relatively affordable at $399.
A woman riding an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Safety concerns about electric unicycles
Despite the advancements in this technology, the inherent instability of electric unicycles raises significant safety concerns. These devices are difficult to control, especially for beginners, and the risk of accidents is high.
The E20, for example, boasts a top speed of 12.4 mph, which might seem slow on paper but can feel quite fast for an inexperienced rider. The potential for accidents on sidewalks and roads is considerable, and the consequences can be severe.
A man carrying an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Is public safety at risk because of electric unicycles?
Would you want to share a sidewalk with someone riding an electric unicycle? The answer for many would be a resounding “no.” These devices’ narrow design and high speeds make them a hazard for pedestrians. On the road, the situation could be even worse. Their small size and instability make them difficult for drivers to see and predict, increasing the risk of collisions.
A man riding an electric unicycle (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
A new trend with old problems
Electric unicycles might be the latest trend in personal transportation, but they bring with them many of the same issues that have plagued electric scooters. The potential for accidents, the difficulty in controlling the devices and the risk to public safety are all significant concerns. While the technology behind models like the InMotion E20 is impressive, it does little to mitigate the inherent dangers of these devices.
People riding electric unicycles at night (InMotion) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Electric unicycles represent an interesting evolution in personal transportation, but they also pose significant risks. Their instability and high speeds make them a potential hazard on sidewalks and roads. As this trend continues to grow, it is crucial for both users and the public to be aware of the dangers and take appropriate precautions to ensure that these devices do not become the next big menace on our streets.
What are your thoughts on the safety and usability of electric unicycles like the InMotion E20 compared to other personal electric vehicles? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.
In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”
To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.
It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.
In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.
Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”
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You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:
“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”
If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.
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FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US
This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What the traffic ticket scam text looks like
At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.
The biggest red flags in this message
Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.
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1) The phone number makes no sense
The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.
2) No name, just “Dear Driver”
Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.
3) The link isn’t a real DMV website
The message includes this link:
ca.mnvtl.life/dmv
That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.
4) Urgency and threats
The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.
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5) Asking you to reply to proceed
The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.
6) Generic language and odd phrasing
Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.
7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you
The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.
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Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What this means for you
Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data. State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.
Why these scams keep working
These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.
Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams
Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:
1) Do not click the link
If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.
2) Use strong antivirus software
If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
3) Verify directly with the DMV
Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.
4) Check the sender carefully
Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.
5) Ignore generic greetings
Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.
6) Consider a data removal service
Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com
7) Block and report the number
On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.
8) Turn on spam filtering
Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.
Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.
In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.
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