Although we’ve been seeing a lot of variations on the electric skateboard lately, it seems that there’s also still room for innovation with good ol’ human-powered boards. Such is the case with the Dokido, a three-wheeled longboard that the user moves forward by swishing their hips.
Created by North Carolina-based entrepreneur Kenneth Kumada, the Dokido forgoes the usual two rear wheels for a single big one.
Mounted in a slot cut into the middle of the flexible deck, that polyurethane wheel features an off-center weighted aluminum hub, known as the Saucerang. This setup allows the rider to turn the wheel by rocking their body weight – a combination of one rock forward and one rock back turns the wheel one complete revolution forward. No stepping off and kicking against the ground is required, although users can still do so for an added boost.
According to Kumada, his design not only helps riders to build their balance skills and to get a good core workout, but it’s also easier on the joints than a regular skateboard. In fact, he invented the Dokido after experiencing knee problems of his own.
The deck is made from eight laminated layers of bamboo, along with a bottom layer of carbon fiber for added strength. Some of the board’s other features include front and rear polyurethane protective bumpers, sealed rear bearings, and Shark-brand front wheels – the latter are claimed to offer a smoother and faster ride than traditional skateboard wheels, along with providing more traction.
The whole thing tips the scales at a claimed 14 lb, 6 oz (6.5 kg), and can accommodate riders weighing up to 265 lb (120 kg).
Should you be interested in getting a Dokido of your own, you can do so via its current Kickstarter project. A pledge of US$699 is required, with the planned retail price sitting at $899. Assuming the board reaches production, it should ship to backers next April.
Three-wheeled “kickless” longboard is moved by swaying riders [New Atlas]