What goes on at weekly practice sessions? GT Riders ride their unicycles for about two hours at McKee Park. They share unicycling information, teach each other new skills, practice for performances, and have fun! As riders learn new skills, they receive certificates from the GT Riders confirming their level of skill. The Unicycling Society of America (USA) defines 10 different skill levels. Riders can also get patches from the Unicycling Society of America to display on their shirts and unicycle markers from the GT Riders to signify their skill level. There are only a handful of skill level 10 riders in the United States. You could be the next one!

Does it matter what my skill level is? No. GT Riders enjoy riding with all ages and skill levels and are eager to help newcomers learn to ride. Current riders range from age 7 to 46 and are having loads of fun!

How hard is it to learn? It takes most newcomers 10 to 15 hours to learn to ride a unicycle. It is challenging and fun!

Is it safe? Aspects of unicycling are similar to bicycling and skating. However, bicycles and skates are capable of traveling much faster than are unicycles. Therefore, unicyclists on typical unicycles do not share the same risk of high-speed impacts with the ground. But safety gear is required, as with any sport, to minimize the risk of injury. Helmets and wrist guards are standard. Kneepads and elbow pads provide more protection and come in handy when learning new skills.

What size unicycle do I need? A GT Riders can help you better answer this question in person; but, in general, kids between ages 6 to 9 need a unicycle with a 16-inch wheel. Kids from 9 years old to adulthood move up to a 20-inch wheel. Unicycles with 24-inch wheels are also common among adult sized riders. After selecting the wheel size, select a seat post length that allows you to raise the unicycle's seat/saddle until your leg is only slightly bent at the knee when you push a pedal to its lowest position. See the section on Different Unicycling Hats for additional information on various types of unicycles.

Where can I buy a recommended unicycle? Torker and Semcycle XL are good values with basic models priced from $70 to $170. The Bicycle Shop in Starkville carries unicycles. Reach them at (662) 323-2555. Unicycle.com specializes in unicycles. See www.unicycle.com or call 1-800-unicycle. Unicycle.com gives a 10% discount on unicycles and equipment to GT Riders if we group individual orders together. Contact Royce Bowden at (662) 323-2604 to find out how to get the discount.

Are there memberships or fees? No. Unicyclists simply gather under the name GT Riders to promote their sport in the community and to have fun riding with, performing with, and learning from others. You just need a unicycle and safety gear to join the fun! There is a sharp looking GT Riders T-shirt available for $15 if you like. Membership in the Unicycling Society of America (USA) is encouraged.

How do I get additional information on the GT Riders? Contact Royce Bowden at (662) 323-2604 or Royce@GTRiders.com.