These unusual methods of personal transportation might not be practical, but they certainly are eye-catching (and exhilarating)
Zorb Ball
A zorb ball is a double-sectioned transparent plastic orb that can house up to two people. The orb's outer section is filled with air and acts as a shock-absorber for the inner section, where riders stand. The idea is to roll down a slope, flat section of land, or even stretch of water by pedaling on the inside of the ball. Put this down on your have-to-try-once-just-for-the-heck-of it list!
This is also known as the aerial runway, and it consists of a cable which has a pulley suspended on it. Users just lock in a harness--which is attached to their body--to the pulley and allow gravity to take over. This results in essentially sliding down a slanting rope using a harness and a pulley.
Zip lining is a popular activity for tourists, particularly in densely forested and mountainous regions, and for some, it's even a way of life where other modes of transport just aren't available!
Probably the simplest devices on this list, stilts are essentially just long sticks you fix to your legs. Invented in Belgium in 1411, stilts aren't just for fun--they're utilitarian devices used by fruit farmers, for working in marshy or flooded areas, and also occasionally in construction.
However, you're most likely to see stilt walkers in a parade or at the circus--they do make for quite a sight!
These cool electric-powered two-wheelers were first introduced at the turn of this century. Back then, they were looked at as an energy-efficient way to get around. Flash forward to 2011, and Segways are still more of a novelty. While a few diehard fans still use them daily for short commutes and to run errands, they're most commonly seen as devices for people to take tours on.
Just don't fall off one--like George W Bush (and later Stephen Fry) famously did!
Pogo Stick
A pogo stick is a spring-propelled stick that allows its operator to hop and move forward. This fairly uncomplicated device is probably not the most practical vehicle for your daily commute, as it take a big toll on your knees and calves. But it is fun in small doses.
People mostly use it to get around parks and beaches and they were even a big fad a few decades ago. Want something with a real kick? Try an engine-powered pogo stick!
A pogo stick is a spring-propelled stick that allows its operator to hop and move forward. This fairly uncomplicated device is probably not the most practical vehicle for your daily commute, as it take a big toll on your knees and calves. But it is fun in small doses.
People mostly use it to get around parks and beaches and they were even a big fad a few decades ago. Want something with a real kick? Try an engine-powered pogo stick!
No comments:
Post a Comment