Onewheel electric skateboards, a product of Future Motion Inc., have been capturing the attention of thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts since their inception in 2014. Their latest board released in 2022, the Onewheel GT, is their flagship and highest-performance board to date.
However, it has one shortcoming compared to the older Onewheel XR, custom shaping. The release of custom shaping for the Onewheel GT has been put on hold due to a significant development involving the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This article delves into the reasons behind this decision and sheds light on the impact it has on riders and the Onewheel community.
Custom Shaping: A Desired Feature
One of the most anticipated features for Onewheel riders has been custom shaping, a function that allows riders to fine-tune the board’s performance according to their preferences. This feature would be particularly significant for the Onewheel GT, known for its powerful capabilities and exhilarating ride. Enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the ability to adjust riding modes, acceleration, and responsiveness to create a more personalized riding experience.
It was first released with the GT but since the launch, there has been little to no information from Future Motion Inc.
The CPSC’s Involvement
It is now confirmed that the CPSC’s recent press release has disrupted Future Motion’s plans for releasing custom shaping for the Onewheel GT. In short, the press release highlights concerns over the safety of Onewheel products, urging consumers not to buy or use them due to an ejection hazard. This has led the CPSC to pursue a recall for affected products, further impacting the release of new features like custom shaping.
It is now confirmed by a statement from Future Motion Inc. that the feature was indeed put on hold because of the CPSC’s involvement.
Future Motion Inc’s Response
Future Motion Inc. has voiced its objection to the CPSC’s press release. The company maintains that Onewheel electric skateboards are safe when operated following basic safe riding principles. The manufacturer emphasizes that riders should educate themselves on safe usage, wear appropriate safety gear, and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with board sports and electric vehicles.
In light of these developments, the delay in releasing custom shaping for the Onewheel GT has prompted discussions within the Onewheel community. We do understand that releasing a feature that alters the behavior of the board could pose a safety concern for the CPSC. Still, the Onewheel GT does address many of the old problems that led to not only the press release but also lawsuits filed against Future Motion Inc.
The Onewheel GT has more power and headroom, the safety beep when you are close to overpowering the board, and a more aggressive pushback. All these features are a direct response to the feedback and shortcomings of the XR from a safety point of view. From a pro-rider perspective, that’s another discussion.
Conclusion
The Onewheel GT’s custom shaping feature, eagerly anticipated by riders, has been affected by the CPSC’s safety concerns and subsequent actions. The prioritization of safety while striving to meet the desires of riders is a delicate balance, we wait for this matter to be resolved and the day Future Motion Inc. can release the feature to the public!
About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
